Commencement Speaker: Mayor Leonardo (Leo) Williams

Mayor Leonardo (Leo) Williams is a former teacher and school administrator. He was elected to Durham City Council in December 2021 and sworn in as mayor in December 2023. Mayor Williams is a proud graduate of North Carolina Central University, earning a Bachelor’s in Music Education and a Master's in Educational Leadership. While attending NCCU, Leo met his wife, Zweli, and they are the proud parents of their son, Izaiah Williams.

Mayor Williams was recognized twice by Durham Public Schools as Teacher of the Year and was also recognized by the Triangle Business Journal with a “40 Under 40” Award for producing innovative practices in education. In 2018, he transitioned from full-time educator to full-time small business owner when he and his wife opened Zweli's, the first full-service authentic Zimbabwean restaurant in the United States.

While serving on the City Council, Mayor Williams continues to apply his experience and passion in education, entrepreneurship, and commitment to addressing deep social issues to make Durham a united community that provides safety and prosperity for all. Mayor Williams has been a champion for small businesses, workforce development, and strengthening youth engagement in Durham. In 2024, he launched the Bull City Future Fund, in collaboration with community partners, to provide direct investments into local youth-serving organizations. Mayor Williams was also featured as a speaker at the 2024 Democratic National Convention, where he highlighted the importance of small businesses to local economies across the country. Above all, Mayor Williams is a service-driven leader interested in making Durham the best place to live, work, visit, and play.