Thomas Williams Jr., PhD

Director of Programs

Dr. Thomas Williams Jr. is the Director of Programs at Thrive By 5 Louisville, bringing more than 20 years of experience across the early childhood continuum. In this role, he oversees the organization’s programmatic strategies to expand access and quality across the early childhood system and leads and advances initiatives focused on quality improvement, provider support, family engagement, and the organization’s research and data to inform decision making. He also serves as a senior advisor to the Executive Director, helping to guide the organization’s programmatic direction and partnerships.

Before joining Thrive By 5 Louisville, Dr. Williams served in leadership roles at the Kentucky Department of Education, including Director of Early Learning, where he oversaw Kentucky’s state-funded preschool programs across all 120 counties. He also served as a Policy Advisor, providing strategic guidance on early childhood and special education policy at the state level. His experience also includes serving in early childhood education as a teacher, principal, instructional coach, and school readiness leader, as well as supporting the preparation of future educators and leaders.

Dr. Williams holds a Ph.D. in Educational Administration from Jackson State University, maintains active Kentucky Rank I licensure across multiple areas, and is a co-author of Principals as Early Learning Leaders.