Nick Williams, Ed.D. (Ed.D.’24), director of alumni engagement for the School of Pharmacy, gives us a glimpse into who he is beyond his CV.

What’s your superpower?

The ability to make people hungry talking about food (haha!). Give me any random ingredients and I’ll make a gourmet meal. I also can understand someone’s thoughts and feelings without them saying a word; as an empath, it’s always made me feel like I can read hearts and minds.

What’s your hidden talent?

I can draw! It was something I thought I was going to do as a kid, but all of that evolved into cooking.

What would you do if you weren’t an alumni engagement officer?

I would be a world-traveling food critic and a Michelin star chef, a movie/TV show director or a cartoonist.

What’s the most important item on your bucket list (if you have a bucket list)?

Try the most famous dishes of every country around the world.

What were your favorite subjects in school?

English and chemistry

What’s something most people don’t know about you?

I not only am a major foodie, but am also a chef where I do small catering events and publish cookbooks. I am also a photographer and videographer and love talking about marketing and branding.

What’s your favorite way to unwind?

Cook, play video games (PS5), and binge watch TV shows and movies

What’s your favorite local restaurant/food truck/brewery?

It’s hard but for restaurants, Lillie Pearl, Pinky’s and Alewife are tied for me. For food trucks, Mama Vicky’s, Noah’s Rockin’ Buns and Soul-Ice Shaker, and Hardywood for my favorite brewery.

What is your top priority for engaging alumni?

Creating clear pathways for alumni to know how they can connect within the school and for the school to connect with alumni.

Do you have another restaurant Nick should add to his list? Or do you want to learn more about how you can connect with the School of Pharmacy? Email him at williamsn@vcu.edu.