Bernett L. Williams
Impact Philanthropist Award, The Soul of Philanthropy Akron
Bernett L. Williams, MPA, CDP, is a visionary community leader whose life's work reflects an unwavering commitment to equity, empowerment, and healing. Through advocacy, partnership, and a gift for building meaningful connections, she has transformed institutions and inspired lasting change across Greater Akron.
Bernett's influence is felt widely through her service to countless organizations, including the Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank, Akron-Canton Airport, Project GRAD Akron, United Way of Summit & Medina, the Greater Akron Chamber, Kent State University, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Summit, Medina & Stark Counties, Leadership Akron, Summa Health System, and the Women's Endowment Fund of Akron Community Foundation. Her willingness to lead, mentor, and give of her time has strengthened these institutions and elevated the community they serve.
Her professional career mirrors her devotion to service. Since 2011, Bernett has served at Akron Children's Hospital, where she is now Chief Engagement Officer and Vice President for Community Initiatives. In this role, she has deepened the hospital's investment in the community and is responsible for tracking more than $100 million in community benefit programs over the past decade. These initiatives address root causes of inequity through innovative strategies that expand access to behavioral health, combat food insecurity, and promote equitable care.
Before joining Akron Children's, Bernett spent 14 years as President and CEO of the Akron Urban League. At a time when the organization faced near collapse under massive debt, she brought it back to stability and renewed purpose. Under her leadership, the Akron Urban League not only survived but emerged stronger, continuing its vital mission of advancing civil rights, economic empowerment, and opportunity.
Throughout her career, Bernett L. Williams has woven together compassion, strategic vision, and inclusive leadership. She bridges healthcare, social justice, and civic empowerment in ways that ensure every Akron resident has the chance to thrive. Her legacy is measured not only in the programs she has built or the organizations she has strengthened, but in the more equitable and connected community she continues to inspire.