URBANA, IL (Chambana Today) – Tracy Williams, Urbana’s First Lady, has devoted her life to serving her community, uplifting young people, and supporting her husband, Mayor DeShawn Williams, as he steps into his leadership role. A proud product of Urbana, Tracy’s journey from local schools to becoming the First Lady is rooted in her deep faith, family values, and a fierce dedication to making life better for those around her.
Born and raised in Urbana, Tracy’s educational journey began at Thomas Paine Elementary, Prairie (now Dr. Preston L. Williams Jr. Elementary School), Urbana Middle School, and Urbana High School. After graduation, she pursued higher education with a clear focus on human and family development. She attended Eastern Illinois University, Parkland College, the University of Illinois, and completed her degree at Eastern Illinois University.
“I’ve always been passionate about helping others, especially the youth,” Tracy said. “Youth shape our future, and I wanted to find a way to guide them as they grow.”
Tracy’s met her future husband, DeShawn Williams at church. His commitment to his faith, dedication to listening, and his deep sense of service to the community left a lasting impression on her. “DeShawn always asked questions, but he truly listened,” Tracy recalled. “He didn’t interrupt me; he waited until I was finished speaking. That’s something that really stood out to me. He’s always had this amazing ability to connect with people and hear them.”
As their relationship blossomed, Tracy witnessed DeShawn’s growing commitment to public service. From serving on the Champaign County Board to his roles as Champaign County Chief Deputy Treasurer and now interim Treasurer, Tracy admired how he always found ways to give back. His service to the community was a powerful motivator for Tracy to encourage him to run for mayor.
“I told him, ‘If you’re going to do it, do it right. Put 100% of your energy and focus into running, and I’ll take care of the rest,’” she shared. “I knew if he was going to take on the responsibility, he needed to be fully committed, and I was there to support him.”
At the time, their children were young—2 or 3, and 7 or 8—and Tracy knew that running for mayor meant many evenings and weekends away from home. She explained to their children that their dad was helping make life better for others, helping the community grow. “Family is everything to both of us,” Tracy said. “We’ve always worked to make sure we’re home to put the kids to bed as often as possible. But when DeShawn is out working for the community, the kids understand it’s because he’s making a difference.”
Tracy’s professional life is focused on youth development, particularly in after-school programs, which she believes are essential in keeping kids engaged and out of trouble. As First Lady, she is determined to shine a light on the organizations that are helping to shape the future of Urbana’s young people.
“I’m passionate about after-school programs because that’s when kids are most vulnerable. We need to make sure they have opportunities to learn and grow in a safe environment,” she said. While Tracy used to be the Assistant Director of Kids Plus for the Unit 4 School District, she is currently the Associate Director of PelotonU, a non-profit organization that helps non-traditional students earn a college degree. She went from working with kids in after school programs in the public schools to helping guide people between the ages of 18 and 60 in their educational path.
Tracy never completely stepped away from local public schools – she still serves as a board member of the One-to-One Mentoring program and advocates for more people to get involved with mentoring.
As Urbana’s First Lady, Tracy believes her husband’s election as mayor holds particular significance, as it reflects the diverse population of the community. DeShawn’s background and experiences allow him to connect with people from all walks of life. “For Urbana to have a Black mayor means so much. Our community is made up of Black and brown people from different backgrounds. DeShawn reflects that diversity, and he understands what it means to serve everyone, regardless of where they come from,” Tracy said.
When asked what three words best describe her, Tracy didn’t hesitate. “Inspired, empowered, determined,” she said. “I want to be a role model for young girls of any background, to show them they can be supportive partners but also lead their own path. Women can be impactful in whatever way they choose—by choosing themselves first, they can give back and help others.”
Tracy’s commitment to unity in the community is one of her biggest concerns. She sees how deeply divided people can be over politics and opinions, and she hopes to bridge those gaps by encouraging open conversation. “I want us to find common ground,” Tracy said. “People are so dug into their ‘side’ these days. We need to be able to have conversations that bring us together, not push us further apart.”
Both Tracy and DeShawn agree that being Mayor is not just a job title, but a 24/7 responsibility. Their work to create a safe, supportive space for all Urbana residents is something they take very seriously.
When she’s not focusing on family, work, or community, Tracy can be found serving at church or spending time with family and friends. Though she enjoys attending events around town, she cherishes the quiet moments at home with her loved ones the most. “I love spending time with the people I care about,” Tracy said with a smile. “At the end of the day, family and faith are what keep me grounded.”
With her unwavering commitment to service, faith, and family, Tracy Williams continues to be a powerful force for positive change in Urbana, inspiring others to invest in their community, support each other, and lead with purpose.
