James N. Williams, senior director for local government relations, was among seven University of Pittsburgh affiliates celebrated by the New Pittsburgh Courier as 2026 Men of Excellence at an awards and induction ceremony on Friday, Aug. 21.
The Men of Excellence Awards honors the extraordinary men whose leadership, vision and impact continue to shape the Greater Pittsburgh region.
The other University affiliates include Drew J. Ellerbee (BUS ’08); Edgar Folks (EDUC ’92G); Ron Idoko (A&S ’05, SPIA ’07G, EDUC ’26G); Raymond Moore (A&S ’98); Mohamed Seedahmed; and John D. Thomas (EDUC ’76G).
As senior director for local government relations, Williams is responsible for managing government-related projects and activities between the University, the City of Pittsburgh, and Allegheny County. He represents Pitt’s interests on various task forces, where he provides and facilitates communication between University students, faculty and staff.