CTO of the Year: Nick Williams

This month, we're thrilled to shine a spotlight on our CTO of the Year Nick Williams. 

Nick is a leader who combines empathy and strategy. He has established the groundwork for major instructional technology initiatives, including the district-wide 1:1 implementation and the integration of Universal Design for Learning (UDL). He ensures the district's technology systems are inclusive, accessible, and designed for all learners. He integrates UDL into every part of the strategic plan, technology planning, purchasing, and professional development. Under his leadership, classrooms have been equipped with large-format displays, voice lifts, and assistive technologies to give every student, regardless of ability, the tools they need to learn and succeed.

Nick has developed many relationships and made a significant impact both within and outside of BCSC. He has worked with officials from the City of Columbus and Bartholomew County to discuss how to provide affordable internet connections to rural communities. He is heavily involved in district redistricting efforts, meeting with community members and former superintendents to discuss the pros and cons of various options. He also worked with Scouting America's Hoosier Hills District to organize a fundraising breakfast with the Mayor of Columbus. Additionally, he has championed IT Summer field trips, where the department either visits or hosts another district's IT group.

Within the district, Nick is a connector who brings people together for a common purpose. His leadership has shaped much of what the district does. He is naturally collaborative, constantly organizing site visits with other districts, inviting people in to learn from them, and creating space for idea-sharing. He is also skilled at uniting people around a shared goal. When a big challenge or idea arises, Nick is the first to assemble a thoughtful group of stakeholders to build something meaningful with them, not just for them.

A shining example of Nick’s vision lies in his belief that the best connections are built when we meet people where they are, not where we want them to be. Just as we design learning environments that allow everyone to access content in their own way, we should approach relationships with the same flexibility, respecting each person’s unique perspective, needs, and pace.