BATTLE CREEK, Mich. – The City of Battle Creek is excited to introduce Tiyanna Willliams, the city’s first Community Development Fellow.
Williams’ role is thanks to a partnership with the Community Economic Development Association of Michigan, or CEDAM, and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. The program places 10 fellows in 10 different host communities to work on a variety of projects aimed at increasing local collaboration and removing barriers to development.
During her 15-month fellowship, Williams will support community development initiatives, as well as economic development and planning, said Planning Supervisor Darcy Schmitt.
“These projects revolve around how we can best reach out to the community,” Schmitt said. “Our goal is to increase local collaboration and remove barriers to development within our community.”
Raised in Muskegon, Michigan, Williams’ passion for community placemaking was ignited by her involvement in an urban garden initiative in her neighborhood. She recalls how one day all the work in the garden was destroyed. While that may seem like a negative experience, Williams formed a different perspective.
“That experience taught me the value of shared ownership,” Williams said. “When people feel a sense of ownership and involvement in a project, they’re more likely to support and sustain it.”
Williams has a strong desire to shape the economic conditions for shared prosperity and growth for residents — a desire she attributes to her upbringing.
"The model of business my parents taught me was that you can have a business while also taking care of those around you,” Williams said. “It's important that you take care of those whom your business impacts, because of that symbiotic relationship."
In addition to being certified in community health work, Williams earned a Bachelor of Science degree in psychology from Western Michigan University and is working to obtain a master’s degree in human-centered design.
If you see Tiyanna Williams around town, say hello and welcome her to Battle Creek!