Midland University proudly celebrated the inauguration of Dr. Aly Williams as its 17th President during a ceremony on Oct. 17th at the Wikert Event Center.
Williams assumed the role of Midland president in April of 2025, succeeding Jody Horner. Williams arrived at Midland after serving as Vice President of Academic Affairs, College of Arts and Sciences, and Chief Academic Officer at Indiana Wesleyan University in Marion, Indiana. She is an experienced educator with over 25 years of dedicated service in higher education and extensive experience as a faculty member and leader.
Steve Feye, ’76, President of the Midland University Board of Directors, said it became apparent to the board that Williams was the right person to direct Midland into the future.
“When the board extended an offer to Aly, we knew we had identified an individual of high moral character and impeccable academic credentials, who was the right person to become the 17th president of Midland,” Feye said. “We know that Dr. Williams will lead the university and continue to serve our students and our community.”
As she lays the groundwork for her future as Midland’s leader, Williams is grateful to be part of an institution with more than 140 years of history to its credit.
“I want to express my gratitude for the trust placed in me,” she said. “I accept the responsibilities that come with this role, and do so with humility, hope, and a commitment to serve Midland University and the community, with integrity.”
Williams paralleled her journey through higher education to her days of growing up on a farm in Southern Illinois, and talked about how the many different seasons can impact both a farmer, and those in higher education.
“Farming taught me a lot of things, and I can see how those have carried over into my professional life,” Williams said. “Growing up on a farm taught me how to work hard, how to be patient, how to persevere, and how to be a good steward of available resources. Whether on a farm, in our own lives, or in an academic institution, each season helps to shape who we were, who we are, and most importantly, who we are to become. If we remain faithful to the mission, and to one another, I believe Midland will continue to grow and prosper, not just for one season, but for many seasons to come.”
She is excited for the challenges and experiences that await her and the university in the future, and knows it will take the efforts of many for Midland to continue to thrive and flourish in an ever-changing higher education landscape.
“I believe in the power of collaboration, and I know that the work ahead can not be done alone. It will take all of us working together, united by purpose and shared mission,” she said. “I am excited about the future, and I am excited to be here. I believe the seasons ahead for Midland are full of promise and opportunity. Let’s step into them together with a shared commitment to our students and to the Midland University we are building together. Because the harvest ahead depends on all of us.”
Members of Williams’s family were in attendance, along with members of the Fremont community, dignitaries from other higher education institutions, and faculty, staff, and students from Midland University. Other events during the day included a chapel service at Sinai Lutheran Church, campus tours, and a Then and Now session discussing Midland’s history, current happenings, and people who have helped shape the campus community.
