In this HBCU Shared Experience spotlight, we celebrate HBCU excellence through the inspiring journey of Jordan Williams, a senior political science major at Howard University and the newly crowned 7th HBCU Mister People’s Choice. Hailing from Jacksonville, Florida, Jordan represents the very essence of HBCU excellence—balancing leadership, legacy, and purpose as he uplifts his campus and community.
As the founder of NewToTheMecca, Jordan built a bridge for incoming Howard students to access scholarships, internships, and service opportunities. His commitment to HBCU excellence is evident in his partnerships with over 27 Black-owned businesses and major brands to enhance student life, amplify civic engagement, and cultivate spaces where Black brilliance thrives. “At Howard University, I’m not just learning—I’m healing, growing, and becoming the person my younger self needed to see,” he shares.
Jordan’s journey to Howard was inspired by his cousin, Casey Williams, an alumna of Edward Waters University, whose passion for culture and community sparked his own desire to attend an HBCU. From cookouts to campus life, Jordan saw firsthand how HBCU excellence isn’t just academic—it’s cultural, communal, and transformational.
He brings his “swag” to Howard by leading with heart and vision. “Swag isn’t just how I dress—it’s how I show up for others,” he says. Through his mentorship organization Vox Vanguard, Jordan empowers students to rise through life’s challenges and boldly walk in their purpose. His initiatives prove that HBCU excellence also lives in how we serve, inspire, and create safe spaces for others to shine.
“Howard has taught me that Black excellence isn’t about perfection. It’s about owning every part of your story—even the imperfect ones—and still walking boldly in purpose.” Jordan’s plans extend far beyond graduation. He aspires to become a corporate attorney and eventually the mayor of Jacksonville, with a heart for policy reform, economic growth, and youth empowerment.
In five years, he envisions himself continuing to embody HBCU excellence—not only as a legal professional but as a changemaker fueled by everything his HBCU has taught him: resilience, leadership, and authenticity. His advice to high schoolers considering an HBCU? “Go. Don’t second-guess it. An HBCU will give you a deeper love for yourself, your people, and your purpose.”
Follow and connect with Jordan Williams:
- Instagram: @Jordxxn.x
- LinkedIn: Jordan Williams
- Facebook: Jordan Ross
