UPrep Principal Daniel Williams Joins Board, Nancy Hickey Named Vice President

We are excited to welcome Daniel Williams, principal of University Prep Academy, as the newest member of our outstanding Board of Directors. Board member Nancy Hickey, senior vice president, chief administrative officer at Steelcase Inc., was named vice president of the board. They work closely with a dedicated group of community and business leaders who are passionate about providing opportunities for people to make social and economic progress in their lives and community.

“WMCAT is grateful for the leadership and commitment from Daniel and Nancy,” said Kim Dabbs, executive director. “Daniel has fostered innovation in education in both Detroit and Grand Rapids. WMCAT shares UPrep’s commitment to student success and civic engagement. Nancy will carry our mission forward through her leadership, expertise and passion. She is a phenomenal champion for WMCAT and creating opportunities for adults and teens.”

Williams was working as principal support at Detroit University Prep High School when he was hand selected to help launch Grand Rapids University Prep Academy in 2008. He was later appointed principal of U-Prep, the first Centers of Innovation School in Grand Rapids Public Schools. The school is a model in innovative learning at the middle and high school level.

Nancy Hickey joined WMCAT’s board in 2011. She also serves on the boards for Fifth Third Bank, Meijer, Inc. and Inforum Center for Leadership.

“We are very pleased to welcome Daniel as our newest board member,” said Matthew Van Vranken, WMCAT board president and executive vice president at Spectrum Health Delivery System. “His extensive experience in education will be invaluable. I would also like to congratulate board member Nancy Hickey. I am looking forward to working with Nancy on a board leadership succession plan that will secure WMCAT’s continued sustainability and growth.”