If you’ve been paying attention to college sports at all this past year, the rise in social justice activism has been unlike any other time in recent memory. As this podcast is being recorded, we are in the middle of the trial of Derek Chauvin, the Minneapolis police officer charged with 2nd degree murder in the death of George Floyd. Along with so many other tragic deaths at the hands of police (like Breonna Taylor), there is a sense that current and future college athletes will no longer tolerate universities giving short shrift to athlete’s personal concerns over racial inequities, both on campus and in their communities. How can athletes use their voices?

My guest today is Dr. Collin Williams, Jr. He is an educator, author and researcher addressing race and other diverse issues through the lens of sports. As a Senior Director, Curriculum, Collin develops, executes and expands RISE's education and leadership programs throughout the country, collaborating with internal and external partners to identify training needs and strategies.

Previously, he worked in social responsibility and player programs for the NBA and as assistant director of player engagement for the NFL's Baltimore Ravens. Along with Dr. Ken Shropshire, Collin co-authored the book  The Miseducation of the Student-Athlete: How to Fix College Sports.  Collin earned his bachelor's degree in sociology and Africana studies and his doctorate in higher education from the University of Pennsylvania.

College Sports Race and Equity Report Card for Black Male Athletes