As someone who raised a child with a number of chronic diseases, Rani Morrison Williams understands the challenges of navigating complex healthcare systems as both a patient and caregiver.  As a result of her personal experiences, her career has been dedicated to improving access and equity in healthcare for all.  Ms. Williams currently serves as the first Chief Diversity and Community Health Equity Officer at University of Illinois Hospital and Health Sciences System (UI Health) charged with leading the health system’s formal efforts towards improving diversity, inclusion, and health equity internally and externally in the communities UI Health serves.  Prior to this role, she served as Senior Director, Care Continuum at UI Health for over 5 years, leading the areas of Case Management, Social Work, Utilization Management, Financial Case Management, and Care Coordination.  In all, Ms. Williams has over 20 years of healthcare experience in various capacities, which began in the area of HIV/AIDS direct services, and progressed over the years through public health, research, care coordination, and hospital administration. 

Ms. Williams holds a BS in Sociology from Southern University and A&M College, a master's in public service management from DePaul University, a Master of Social Work from University of Southern California and is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Diversity Executive. She is a Fellow in the American College of Healthcare Executives and board member of the Chicago Health Executives Forum.  Ms. Williams has been recognized for her achievements as a Crain’s Chicago 2019 Notable Women in Healthcare honoree, Crain’s Chicago 2022 Notable Executive of Color in Healthcare, and Becker’s Top Diversity Executive

In addition to her professional endeavors, Ms. Williams is very active in her community serving on several nonprofit boards.  In her free time, she serves as an on-demand chauffeur to her 2 daughters and nephew.