Michael Williams

Born in Washington, DC, Michael Williams has lived in or visited over 40 countries, but he has a special appreciation for his native city. A graduate of The Sidwell Friends School and the first African American male to attend the prestigious school from Kindergarten through High School, Mr. Williams attended the University of Maryland at College Park where he majored in English Literature.

Williams has had success in industries ranging from high tech companies to foreign exchange banking. But his life has been defined by his abilities in the media and communications, for his experience in world affairs and his passion for the game of golf.

He has established himself as a leading voice for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. His “Open Letter to the Golf Industry from a Black Man Who Loves the Game” became a template that inspired the leadership of the game to implement long-needed change. In addition, Williams’ article for ESPN about his handling of a PGA Tour professional who admitted to dressing up in blackface garnered praise from around the world and was recently recognized as one of the best articles of 2020 by the Golf Writers Association of America.

Williams has also contributed to a wide range of charitable organizations, including The First Tee of Greater Washington, DC. and the Eisenhower Memorial Commission, which was authorized by The White House and Congress to establish the Memorial to the President Eisenhower. Mr. Williams is a member of the United States Golf Association, the Golf Writers Association of America and the National Association of Black Journalists.