Pictured above Yolanda Nelson and David Williams
For David Williams, education has always been about more than academics. It is about creating opportunities, changing lives, and helping young people discover a future they may not have thought possible.
As the founder of Williams Academy in St. Louis, David has spent years building a learning environment where children can thrive through Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) education. In just four years, Williams Academy has grown to capacity at its current location, serving students and families throughout the community while earning a reputation for excellence and impact.
Now, David and, Yonnick Jones, Co-owner of Williams Academy, are preparing for their next chapter: the opening of Williams Academy Express in Florissant.
Their vision is simple but powerful. They want to expand their reach, serve more families, and provide children with a safe, engaging place to learn, grow, and dream.
“We want to reach the kids who are bored,” David explains
“When young people don’t have opportunities, they can find themselves headed down the wrong path. We want to help them see a future filled with possibilities.”
Photograph courtesy of Williams Academy STL
For David, success is measured by the lives changed along the way.
He wants the students who walk through the doors of Williams Academy to see college as a possibility, not prison. He wants them to discover talents they never knew they had and gain the confidence to pursue their goals.
As demand for quality childcare and educational programming continues to grow, expanding the academy has become necessary for many individuals. But like many entrepreneurs and community leaders, David faced a significant challenge: securing the funding needed to bring his vision to life.
Despite his passion and proven track record, David wasn’t certain that financing would be possible. During the process, Justine PETERSEN CEO Robert Boyle offered words that would stay with him.
“It’s a new day.”
Those words became a reminder that opportunities exist for those who are willing to pursue them.
With support from Justine PETERSEN and its lending partners at Simmons Bank, David received the funding needed to move forward with Williams Academy Express. The investment will not only create additional childcare and educational opportunities for families but will also generate jobs, strengthen neighborhoods, and provide lasting benefits for the community.
David’s motivation comes from his own experiences growing up.
His goal is to provide opportunities for children who may not have access to the same resources he had. He wants every child to know that their future matters and that their circumstances do not define their potential.
The dream of Williams Academy Express is becoming a reality.
With a new location on the horizon and a growing impact across the region, David and Yonnick are continuing their commitment to building brighter futures for children and families throughout St. Louis.
Justine PETERSEN is proud to be part of that journey and excited to see the lives that will be changed through Williams Academy Express for years to come.