A&T Names Martin Complex Spaces for the Rev. Dr. John L. and Elnita L. Williams

EAST GREENSBORO, N.C. (Nov. 26, 2024) – North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University has named two spaces at the Harold L. Martin Sr. Engineering Research and Innovation Complex for the Rev. Dr. John L. Williams ’96 and Elnita L. Williams.

John L. Williams Enrichment Way and Elnita Lipford Williams Enlightenment Way, both located on the fourth floor of the Martin Complex, honor the Williamses for their philanthropic support of N.C. A&T’s College of Engineering.

“Rev. Dr. Williams and Elnita L. Williams’ presence at North Carolina A&T exemplifies the spirit of social engagement, community collaboration, and personal and professional development,” Kenneth E. Sigmon Jr., vice chancellor for University Advancement, said during a Nov. 1 ceremony at the Martin Complex.

The Rev. Dr. Williams has served as pastor of Flat Creek Baptist Church in Darlington, South Carolina, for more than two decades and worked as a senior engineer in Florence, South Carolina. He has been an active leader in his community, participating in organizations such as the Greater Florence Chamber of Commerce, South Carolina ETV Community Advisory Council and Darlington County Union. He earned a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from A&T, MBA from Webster University and Doctor of Ministry from United Theological Seminary. He also is an Army veteran of Operation Desert Storm.

His wife, Elnita L. Williams, has been a businesswoman and committed leader in the human services field, contributing to mental health, educational programs and mentorship initiatives for underserved communities, and supporting students through her work at various institutions and community organizations such as the Center Community Coalition Mentoring Program, South Carolina Department of Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse and Boys and Girls Clubs, among others. She also taught at Piedmont Technical College in her native Greenwood, South Carolina, for 11 years. Her book, “I’m First Lady, Now What?,” was published in 2010. She earned a B.A. from Furman University and M.Ed. in counseling from Clemson University.

At Flat Rock Baptist Church, the Williamses have established ministries that assist senior citizens with drug prescriptions and reimburse college students for books and supplies. The church also has partnered with Harvest Hope Food Bank to feed the hungry in the Darlington community.