LEADERSHIP & SERVICE
A Player’s Life of Leadership Former NFL player Byron K. Williams exemplifies the spirit of service
By Timothy Jackson
B yron K. Williams (Iota Alpha 1980) has lived a life defined by leadership, service, and achievement. His journey began at the University of Texas at Arlington, where he played football in 1979 and pledged Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. in the spring of 1980. He later became a Charter Brother of the Arlington–Grand Prairie (AGP) Alumni Chapter, continuing his lifelong commitment to the fraternity’s motto of “Achievement in Every Field of Human Endeavor.” In 1983, his athletic excellence carried him to the National Football League, where he was drafted by the Green Bay Packers. Yet, his greatest legacy would be built off the field, as a mentor, author, and community builder. Williams is the author of The Play- book for Life , a work that reflects his dedication to guiding others through life’s challenges. Each year, the week after Father’s Day, he hosts a free foot- ball camp in his hometown, teaching discipline, responsibility, and father- hood to young men. The camp provides free instruction, mentorship, and t-shirts, ensuring that every participant experiences the power of encourage- ment and access without cost. In 2024, Williams made history as the first African American non-HBCU graduate to receive the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award, pre- sented by the Biden Administration.
NFL great Jim Jeffcoat, Arlington-Grand Prairie (TX) Alumni Polemarch Ben “Chip” Bryant, and NFL great Brother Byron K. Williams.
This prestigious recognition honors individuals who have dedicated their lives to community service. Williams continues to serve as a leader within the professional football community. He is an active member of the NFL Players Association and currently serves as President of the NFL Alumni Association, elected to a four-year term through 2029. His leadership has strengthened the Dallas NFL Alumni Chapter and expanded opportunities for former players to engage in mentorship and outreach. In 2025, he added another accolade to his resume by winning the Super Bowl of Golf Tournament in Georgia. As one of ten children, Williams has always valued family, community, and service. He leads the AGP Guide Right Foundation Annual Golf Tournament, which has raised more than $60,000 for the foundation over the past three years. In addition, he is working to host
an international golf tournament in the Dominican Republic during Martin Luther King Jr. weekend in 2026, with proceeds benefiting a local orphanage. These efforts reflect his commitment to global philanthropy and his belief that success should always be shared. Through his Best Wishes Foun- dation, Williams continues to uplift communities and empower youth through education, athletics, and character development. From the football field to the boardroom, from fraternity service to international outreach, Williams exem- plifies the spirit of achievement. His life’s work, crowned by the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award, serves as an enduring testament to leadership, perseverance, and the transformative power of giving back. ♦
If wish to support or learn more, visit www.bestwishesfoundation.org
82 THE JOURNAL ♦ FALL 2025
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