Capital Strategy and Operations Officer recognized for her contributions to the school business profession

The School District U-46 Board of Education recognized Dr. Ann Williams, capital strategy and operations officer, with an Accent Achievement for receiving the 2026 Distinguished Eagle Award from the Association of School Business Officials (ASBO) International.

The Eagle Awards are among the highest honors in school business, recognizing outstanding contributions made by school business officials to their districts and the profession. Williams was U-46’s deputy superintendent of operations for four years before assuming her current role.

The honor from the ASBO recognized Dr. Williams for her leadership, mentorship, scholarship, and commitment to advancing the profession.

“Her contributions have helped shape not only stronger school business operations, but stronger professionals prepared to serve their districts and communities,” the ASBO said. 

Williams also received the Illinois ASBO Monarch Award in 2025. Both awards included a donation to an organization the recipient selected. Williams chose the U-46 Educational Foundation, directing a combined $3,500 to scholarships for U-46 students.

“I’m grateful for these honors, but I see them as recognition of work we do together: the entire U-46 team, the operational leaders I’ve had the opportunity to support, and the school business colleagues I’ve worked alongside throughout my 22 years as a business official," Williams said. 

She accepted the Accent on Achievement at the Oct. 19 BOE meeting, and the Distinguished Eagle award at the ASBO International convention in Pittsburgh the week prior.