Sandy T. Williams Of Zacharias Sexual Abuse Center On 5 Things You Need To Know To Successfully Lead A Nonprofit Organization
Be comfortable with conflict — Conflict is a natural part of every relationship, yet so many people are uncomfortable with it, so they go to great lengths to avoid it. Unfortunately, whatever the issue is rarely goes away if you don’t address it. In fact, avoiding conflict often allows resentment to build, making the situation worse over time. Learning to navigate conflict with honesty and empathy can actually strengthen relationships and lead to deeper understanding.
As part of my series about “individuals and organizations making an important social impact”, I had the pleasure of interviewing Sandy T. Williams.
Sandy T. Williams is a dynamic leader dedicated to combating gender-based violence, advancing women’s health, and challenging systemic inequities. As CEO of ZCenter, she drives the organization’s strategic vision, overseeing operations, finances, and long-term growth. With a commitment to fostering inclusion, collaboration, and innovation, Sandy works to amplify ZCenter’s mission and expand its impact in the community.
Thank you so much for doing this with us. Before we begin our readers would like to get to know you a bit more. Can you tell us a bit about your “backstory”?
I was born and raised in Illinois by immigrant parents who came to the United States as young adults from Haiti. When I’ve thought about what my parents must have overcome to be able to get here and make a life for themselves and their children, I knew that I needed to take advantage of every opportunity presented to me and that failure was not an option. My parents strongly believed in the saying “education is the key to success” and instilled that in me and my three siblings. While I didn’t always know what I wanted to do as a career, I knew that I enjoyed working with and helping others. As a student, I explored opportunities in healthcare, education and the legal system.
I eventually earned two Masters degrees, one in Public Administration and the other in Marriage and Family Counseling. Each provides me with a solid blend of skills that I believe have contributed to my success as a leader. I’ve developed the technical and practical skills needed to understand the intricacies of running an organization, while also having the clinical skills to help me grasp human behavior on a deeper level. Also as a clinician, I’m able to connect more intimately to the service delivery aspects of our work at Zacharias Sexual Abuse Center (ZCenter).
Can you tell us the story behind why you decided to start or join your non nonprofit?
I have spent my entire career working with populations of individuals who have faced unimaginable life experiences. I’ve conducted research in the emergency department of an acute level 1 trauma center, I’ve worked in the child welfare system, counseled youth in the criminal justice system, supported the chronically unhoused, and developed trauma centered programming for victims of various types of violence. What I have learned is that while the work is incredibly rewarding, there is still so much that needs to be done to create meaningful and lasting systemic change. I’ve also come to understand that I have both the passion and the capacity to be part of that change. This type of work is not for everyone, it requires resilience, empathy, and a deep commitment to justice and healing.
Over the years, the variety of educational and professional experiences that I’ve had not only shaped my worldview, but also prepared me to lead in complex and emotionally challenging spaces. So when the opportunity became available to take the helm at ZCenter, an organization doing powerful work to support survivors and promote prevention in my own community, I knew it was the right step. It felt like a culmination of my journey and a chance to bring my skills, heart, and vision to an organization that aligns deeply with my values.
Can you describe how you or your organization aims to make a significant social impact?
Zacharias Sexual Abuse Center strives to mobilize the community toward ending systemic sexual violence while amplifying the voice of survivors through trauma informed care, advocacy, and prevention education. Recongizing that sexual assault is a pervasive issue, with someone being sexually assaulted in America every 73 seconds, we meet surivors “where they are”, offering comprehensive support and services to help them heal in the ways that are most meaningful to them. We provide counseling, medical and legal advocacy, resources, and opportunities for connection while survivors attempt to navigate their challenging situation. We run a 24-hour support line and also respond to the needs of victims at the time that they arrive in the emergency room after an assault. Additionally, because educating the community also plays an important part in addressing the issue, we work with approximately 11,000 students each year providing prevention education. Our curricula equips them with useful tools that might help keep them safe, we educate them about themselves and their development, as well as how to navigate the many relationships that they may encounter throughout the various stages of their lives. We also continue to expand on the professional training opportunities that we provide to professionals and the community at large. We have highly skilled staff and volunteers who are trained to use a healing-centered approach to engage with survivors and assist them in moving from a sometimes very dark place to one of hope.
Personally, as the CEO, I aim to make an impact by using my voice to push for meaningful changes within a system that can often be slow to respond to the real needs of survivors. I recognize the power of leadership to challenge harmful norms, elevate marginalized voices, and advocate for policies and practices that foster healing, equity, and justice. Additionally, I am deeply committed to operating an organization that is not only resource-rich but also rooted in a culture of empowerment and purpose. I strive to ensure that every member of my team feels valued, supported, and inspired to use their unique talents in ways that bring personal fulfillment while driving meaningful outcomes for the individuals and communities we serve. Because when we care for our people internally, we are better positioned to care for survivors externally, with compassion, strength, and sustained impact.
Without saying any names, can you share a story about an individual who was helped by your idea so far?
There was a woman who was attending one of our 16-week therapeutic groups that was facilitated by a counselor who is a trained art therapist. The counselor often used various artistic prompts to engage with the participants during the sessions.
After a few sessions the counselor noticed that the woman in the group never used the color blue in any of the work that she created. The counselor wondered if the woman was aware of this, so she asked her. The woman didn’t give an answer at that point.
The next day the woman contacted the counselor and told them that when her uncle would abuse her, he would tell her that it was her fault that it happened and blamed her for the abuse. As a consequence she was made to clean up around the house. The woman complied and always felt so alone and ashamed. She even wondered if there was some truth to what her uncle said about it being her fault. The towels she used to clean were blue.
The women remained engaged in the art therapy sessions. On the last day of the group, the woman entered wearing a beautiful, new, blue sweater. Everyone in the group began to cry, including her. Everyone understood the significance of this. They knew that in order to do that she must have gone through a significant amount of healing. To have the color physically on her person and to acknowledge that the color isn’t bad and neither is she, was overwhelming for everyone.
Her transformation and healing occurred because of her experience in the group, including the support of the other survivors, the opportunities the counselor provided for people to bravely take back their power, and the hope that healing can happen.
The woman said at that point in her life, her entrance into that group that day, was the most meaningful day of her life.
Are there three things the community/society/politicians can do to help you address the root of the problem you are trying to solve?
First, we need to normalize conversations about consent, power dynamics, and respect within families, faith communities, and cultural institutions. Because of the complex and multi-faceted nature of this issue, there is still a lot of victim blaming that comes along with it, so the root of the issue is not truly addressed. Because 1 in 3 women and 1 in 6 men are assaulted in the US every year, everyone of us likely knows someone who has experienced sexual abuse, whether they have shared it or not.
Second, address systemic power imbalances that enhance economic dependence and vulnerability. There needs to be continued advocacy for the rights of workers, particularly those in vulnerable industries, that reduces opportunities for exploitation and retaliation. We also need to challenge cultural norms that devalue others, especially those from marginalized communities.
Last, offer support. If you have the capacity to make monetary contributions, do so. If you are able to volunteer your time, do so. As long as there continues to be a need for our services, ZCenter must ensure that we continue to have the capacity to support survivors. We are able to thrive because of the generosity of our community, and we encourage those who can, to join us in impacting the lives of thousands of people each year and educating the community to create systemic change.
How do you define “Leadership”? Can you explain what you mean or give an example?
When I think about this question, I think about my seven and nine year old children. They’ve said to me “mommy, you’re the boss, you get to tell people what to do” and I quickly correct them. The truth is, there are probably many adults who think that as well, but true leadership is less about being in charge and telling people what to do and more about listening, being of service and taking responsibility.
To me, leadership means inspiring others toward a shared vision while creating the conditions for people to thrive, evolve, and feel seen. It’s about listening before speaking, acting with integrity and making difficult decisions that serve the greater good, not just those that provide the easiest outcome.
True leaders build trust, foster collaboration, and empower others to lead in their own right. They acknowledge mistakes, learn from them, and model resilience. Leadership also means showing up consistently, especially in times of uncertainty, and being a steady presence that others can rely on.
Above all, leadership is rooted in humility, empathy, and purpose. I make mistakes, I apologize and I’m regularly working to realign for our cause. I understand that titles can be important and that they mean something, but to me being the “boss” is more about being accountable for the impact you have on individual people and the community around you.
Based on your experience, what are the “5 Things You Need To Know To Successfully Lead A Nonprofit Organization”. Please share a story or example for each.
1. Successful leadership starts from within — Having a strong emotional intelligence and knowing who you are first helps you better lead others. It’s important to know what motivates you, what frustrates you, and how to manage your emotions. Self-awareness creates the foundation for authentic leadership and allows you to respond thoughtfully rather than react impulsively. When leaders lead themselves well, they model the behavior they hope to inspire in others.
2. Communication is key — Healthy communication is the foundation of every successful relationship, team, and organization. As a leader, creating an environment that celebrates open, honest, and respectful communication is essential. It means fostering a culture where people feel safe to express ideas, concerns, and feedback without fear of judgment or retaliation. Clear communication builds trust, minimizes misunderstandings, and keeps everyone aligned toward common goals. Listening with intention and responding with clarity builds collaborative environments where challenges are addressed proactively and collaboration and accountability thrive.
3. No matter how far you’ve come in your career, always be open to learning something new — This is both formally (i.e through training and professional development) and informally. The most effective leaders are those who remain curious, reflective, and willing to evolve. Every interaction, challenge, or setback offers an opportunity to gain insight, sharpen skills, or see things from a new perspective. I’ve found that maintaining a learner’s mindset not only keeps me adaptable in a constantly changing world, but also sets the tone for my team, creating a culture where questions are encouraged, feedback is valued, and growth is a shared commitment.
4. Try not to take things personally — I recognize that it isn’t always easy, but it’s essential to effective leadership. Individuals are fascinating, complex, and multifaceted beings, each bringing their own lived experiences, emotions, and perspectives into the workplace. I’ve learned that people’s reactions often have more to do with what they’re carrying than with the immediate situation at hand. By approaching others with curiosity rather than judgment, I’m able to stay grounded, make space for honest dialogue, and lead with empathy.
5. Be comfortable with conflict — Conflict is a natural part of every relationship, yet so many people are uncomfortable with it, so they go to great lengths to avoid it. Unfortunately, whatever the issue is rarely goes away if you don’t address it. In fact, avoiding conflict often allows resentment to build, making the situation worse over time. Learning to navigate conflict with honesty and empathy can actually strengthen relationships and lead to deeper understanding.
We are very blessed that very prominent leaders read this column. Is there a person in the world who you would like to talk to, to share the idea behind your non profit? He or she might just see this, especially if we tag them. 🙂
I would be incredibly honored to have the opportunity to speak with Simone Biles. As a sexual assault survivor and someone who spent part of her early life in foster care, I deeply admire the strength and resilience she has shown throughout her journey. Her ability to overcome adversity and rise to become the most decorated gymnast in history is nothing short of inspiring.
I’d be especially interested in hearing how she found the courage to come forward and speak publicly about the abuse she endured, and what insights she might offer to the survivors we support every day at ZCenter. It would be incredibly meaningful to share with her the work we do and hear her perspective on what aspects of that work she finds most impactful.
And on a lighter note — I’m a Chicago Bears fan! I’d love to hear her take on the potential stadium move and her thoughts on what this season might look like under Coach Johnson.
Can you share your favorite “Life Lesson” Quote? How is that relevant to you in your life?
I truly appreciate the quote by Maya Angelou “We delight in the beauty of the butterfly, but rarely admit the changes it has gone through to achieve that beauty.”
To me, this quote highlights how we often celebrate someone’s achievements, confidence, or grace without recognizing the challenges they overcame. We naturally prefer to ignore the trauma, loss, rejection, hard work, or personal transformation. As a black-caribbean woman, a mother, a wife and a leader, I’ve had my share of all of the above. This quote challenges us to not only appreciate outcomes but also honor the process. It invites empathy, understanding, and deeper appreciation for others’ paths and our own.
How can our readers follow you online?
linkedin.com/in/sandy-t-williams-1100747/
https://www.facebook.com/ZCenter1/
You can also listen to our survivor-led podcast, “Here to Healing”, on Spreaker
This was very meaningful, thank you so much. We wish you only continued success in your mission.
Sandy T. Williams Of Zacharias Sexual Abuse Center On 5 Things You Need To Know To Successfully… was originally published in Authority Magazine on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.