’burg and Beyond

Atlanta

In 2023, Terian Williams ’26 turned his platform as a Division I athlete into a force for good by founding the It Takes a Village Family Foundation. Through the nonprofit, Williams organizes Christmas and Father’s Day events in his hometown of Atlanta that provide families with housing assistance, groceries, clothing and other essentials. “I wanted to give back, support underserved communities and bring Atlanta together,” he says.

Williams began his college journey at Stanford University, where he spent two years before transferring to Bucknell in fall 2024. “I chose Bucknell for its close-knit community,” he says. “The football team, especially, feels like a family.” As a defensive back, Williams uses his name, image and likeness (NIL) — the legal right that allows student-athletes to earn income through sponsorships — to fund his foundation. Partnering with over 60 brands, he has secured support to drive his mission.

What He’s Done

Recently, the sociology major partnered with Cheez-It and the Extra Yard for Teachers initiative to donate $10,000 to his former elementary school in honor of his third-grade teacher. “Mr. Hayes was so instrumental in my life,” Williams says. “Being able to give back to the school where I met lifelong friends and formed the foundation of who I am today was amazing.”

What’s Next?

As Williams looks to expand his impact in the Lewisburg area, he has plans to partner with Bison Cares, a Bucknell student-athlete initiative, to co-sponsor charitable events. “When people face tough moments, it’s essential to remind them that positivity and support still exist,” he says.

— Sarah Downey ’25