Roger Williams University (RWU) has officially appointed Dr. Brian G. Williams as its interim president, effective June 1, 2026. Dr. Williams steps into the role following the retirement of President Ioannis N. Miaoulis, who served the university for seven years. With more than three decades of experience in university administration, Dr. Williams is poised to lead the institution through the upcoming academic year while focusing on strategic priorities such as student success, academic excellence, community engagement, and institutional stability.
Extensive Experience at RWU
Dr. Williams has been a key figure at Roger Williams University for the past decade, holding several senior positions including Vice President of Enrollment Management & Marketing, Chief of Staff, and senior executive partner to the university's president. His deep understanding of the university's operations and culture positions him well to guide the institution during this transitional period.
Commitment to Student-Centered Leadership
Known for his dedication to student-centered leadership and organizational development, Dr. Williams emphasizes collaborative governance and fostering an inclusive campus culture. Heather Boujoulian, Chair of the RWU Board of Trustees, praised his appointment, stating, "Brian Williams is a thoughtful and experienced leader who understands the mission and values of Roger Williams University. His steady leadership, strategic perspective, and dedication to students make him exceptionally well-positioned to guide the university during this important time."
Plans for the Academic Year
In his new role, Dr. Williams plans to work closely with faculty, staff, students, alumni, and community partners to strengthen academic programs, enhance the campus experience, and expand the university's regional impact. He intends to launch a university-wide listening and learning initiative during his first few months to gather diverse perspectives and foster dialogue across the RWU community.
"I am honored to serve Roger Williams University at this pivotal moment," said Dr. Williams. "RWU's commitment to experiential learning, civic engagement, and student success creates a powerful combination for the future. I look forward to working alongside the campus community in this role to build on the university's momentum and support its continued success."
Background and Qualifications
Dr. Williams brings a wealth of expertise in enrollment management, strategic planning, institutional operations, and community relations. Throughout his career, he has been recognized for building collaborative teams, supporting innovation, and advancing initiatives that improve student outcomes and institutional effectiveness. He holds a Doctor of Management from Case Western Reserve University, a Master's in Higher Education Administration from Boston College, and a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of New Hampshire.
As RWU embarks on this new chapter, the university community looks forward to Dr. Williams' leadership in navigating the challenges and opportunities ahead.
