From First Connection to Homecoming Royalty

Cora Williams embodies the Belmont spirit

When senior social work major Cora Williams first toured Belmont University, a phone call changed the trajectory of her college journey. After visiting campus and meeting with her now-advisor Julie Hunt, Williams received an unexpected call from Dr. Jennifer Crowell Thompson, chair of the School of Social Work. 

"She apologized for not having been able to meet me in person and offered all kinds of support as I continued on my decision journey," Williams recalls. "I couldn't believe that someone as busy as she was would take time out of her schedule to give encouragement to a high schooler who had not even committed to Belmont." 

Despite being accepted to 17 schools including Vanderbilt, that personal connection made all the difference. Williams chose Belmont, where she found not just an academic home but a community that would help her flourish both professionally and personally. 

Finding Purpose Through Service 

Since arriving at Belmont, Williams has fully immersed herself in both her academic program and campus life. She's completed practicum hours at Preston Taylor Ministries, participated in online tutoring through Accelerating Scholars in Metro Nashville Public Schools and observed in local classrooms. 

Now in her senior year, Williams is completing her required 450-hour internship as a school social work intern in MNPS, leveraging connections she made during her earlier classroom observations. 

"All of these experiences have greatly shaped my perspective of the field I am so passionate about and have helped prepare me very well," she says. 

Making Her Mark on Campus 

Beyond her academic pursuits, Williams has made a significant impact through Towering Traditions in the Office of New Student Orientation. After experiencing the welcoming atmosphere created by Towering Traditions as an incoming student, she later served as both a Tower Team leader and on the Orientation Council as Student Director. 

"Watching the Tower Team leaders have passion for me and my fellow incoming students immediately comforted me and allowed me to feel like this was a space where I would be valued," Williams said. 

Throughout her time at Belmont, Williams has embodied the University's commitment to service and community. Her work with the Orientation Council has allowed her to welcome countless new students to campus, helping them navigate their transition to college life with the same care she received. 

"Having the opportunity to lead as a TT leader and on the Orientation Council, I was provided the opportunity to give that sense of value back to each student as they come to college," Williams said. 

Faith and Growth 

Though Williams wasn't specifically seeking a Christian university, her time at Belmont has deepened her faith journey.  

"Since being at Belmont and being encouraged to engage in conversation regarding faith, I have only grown closer to my own relationship with God and have a deeper understanding of my purpose," she shared. 

She connects this spiritual growth to her professional values as a social worker. "A social work value that I hold very close to my heart is the dignity and worth of person... I have seen how this is also how Jesus wants us to live." 

Crowned with Honor 

Williams's impact on campus was recently recognized when she was named Homecoming Royalty during Belmont's homecoming weekend celebrations. 

"Being chosen as Homecoming Royalty by my peers is an experience I will always cherish," Williams reflected. "More than just a title, this honor has been a meaningful reminder of the kindness, leadership, and support that define Belmont's community." 

For Williams, the recognition reinforces what she's loved most about her Belmont experience: the sense of belonging that makes the University feel like home. 

Mentors Making a Difference 

As she prepares to graduate, Williams reflects on the profound impact the School of Social Work faculty has had on her development. 

"Every single one of the professors has taught me something different,” she shared. “Dr. Crowell Thompson has taught me how to balance my love for helping others with professionalism. Julie Hunt has taught me how to care deeply for others, as well as for yourself. Dr. Sullenberger has taught me that your path in life might not be exactly what you expect, but it will be exactly what you need. Dr. Crews has taught me how to advocate for myself, because I deserve it. And while I have not had the pleasure of taking a class with Dr. Reese Foster, she has taught me what it means to make a positive impact on the world. I could not be more thankful for this department if I tried." 

Williams exemplifies the transformation that can happen when students find the right university community. From that first phone call to her crowning moment at homecoming, her Belmont journey has been defined by meaningful connections, academic excellence and a commitment to serving others.