The well-known and respected board-certified plastic surgeon has been an ASPS board member for over 15 years. He’s supported the organization by serving in various roles like membership committee chair, vice president of aesthetic surgery, diversity committee chair and vice president of membership before he became president-elect. In March, he posted a video that included multiple clips of articles he was “honored” to be featured in on Instagram to announce, celebrate and share his goals for ASPS. The post included a long caption that expressed his excitement for this next chapter of his career.

ASPS is the largest group in the world for board-certified surgeon professionals, with more than 7,000 members. It’s become the leading source of information and resources for physicians specializing in cosmetic and reconstruction surgery. Not only is this a major milestone for Williams and the organization, but it’ll have a great impact on future surgeons of color with hopes of becoming the president of the organization one day.

The accomplished doctor studied at and graduated from two Ivy League institutions: Dartmouth College for his undergraduate studies and Yale University for medical school and residency training. Later on, he wanted to open a practice of his own and founded Tri Valley Plastic Surgery, a cosmetic and reconstructive center in Dublin, California, where he is the lead surgeon. His facility specializes in cosmetic and body contouring practices, and his main areas of focus are the face, body and breastwork.

Williams plans to be an educational resource for safe practices as well. He said he is grateful for his new title and plans to uphold the outstanding reputation of the organization.

“Presidency of ASPS is a pinnacle career achievement,” the lecturer said, according to the Tri Valley Plastic Surgery website. “When you look at who has occupied that role, you see the legends of plastic surgery, the people who have brought the biggest innovation, the biggest change, the biggest growth, the people that are most passionate about plastic surgery. For me personally, it’s an achievement to be the first African American person to be president at ASPS. It’s an incredible sense of honor, duty, and pride. I’m really standing on the shoulders of people who came before me.”