Five-Minute Feature: Tiffany Williams, Administrative Assistant 2 for the Office of Communications 

Get to know the Empire State University community through this rapid-fire interview series that bridges professional accomplishments and personal interests. What makes Empire State University exceptional? The unique people behind the work. Five minutes—starting now! 

What led you to your career path? 

I actually answered an ad on my college’s student union bulletin board for a temp position that was supposed to last just the summer. The Office of Student Accounts turned out to be such a welcoming place that I ended up staying. Over the years, I’ve been fortunate to work in many offices and departments as I’ve grown in my career. While it wasn’t the career path I originally imagined, I found that I really enjoy this kind of work and that it suits my personality. It also plays to my strengths in organization, communication, and problem-solving, and I particularly enjoy supporting the team and keeping things running smoothly behind the scenes, without needing to be out front. 

What is your favorite thing about SUNY Empire? 

The people are definitely what make this place what it is. From the students we celebrate at commencement to the staff, faculty, and administrators who support them along the way, the human side of this institution is my favorite thing about SUNY Empire. 

What’s one moment in your career that you’re especially proud of? 

Last year, I was one of two people selected for the Excellence in Support Services award from the Empire State University Foundation, which I’m very proud of. But my proudest moments often come from completing a project or task, whether big or small. There’s a real sense of accomplishment in seeing something through and knowing you helped bring it across the finish line. 

March is Women’s History Month, and International Women’s Day is celebrated on March 8. Who is one well-known woman (historical or contemporary) that you’d like to chat with, and why? 

I’d choose Ruth Bader Ginsburg because of her lifelong commitment to fairness and the steady, thoughtful way she worked to expand equality under the law. I relate to that drive for fairness in my role as a union representative, advocating for colleagues and helping ensure everyone is treated equitably. I’d love to hear about the experiences that shaped her perspective and what kept her motivated throughout her career. 

What is your “comfort” TV show or movie that you watch over and over? 

I rarely turn the TV on these days, but my favorite childhood movie was “The Wizard of Oz.” I could watch it over and over. There’s something about the adventure, the journey, and finding your “tribe” along the way—and realizing you already have what you need to make it through—that really stuck with me from a young age.