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About Us

The Williams Institute advances sexual orientation law and public policy through rigorous, independent research and scholarship, and disseminates it to judges, legislators, policymakers, media and the public. A national think tank at UCLA Law, the Williams Institute produces high quality research with real-world relevance.

Experts at the Williams Institute have authored dozens of public policy studies and law review articles, filed amicus briefs in key court cases, provided expert testimony at legislative hearings, been widely cited in the national media, and trained thousands of lawyers, judges and members of the public. By providing new ideas and reliable information, the Williams Institute makes a difference.

The Williams Institute was made possible through the vision and generosity of businessperson, academic, and philanthropist Charles R. Williams. Mr. Williams is the President of Williams & Associates and received his B.A. and M.B.A. from UCLA. Until 1985, Mr. Williams worked as a senior executive for Sperry Corporation, where he held several positions, including Vice President for Strategic and Business Planning and Vice President and General Manager for Worldwide Operations. Most recently, he has taught business courses in policy and strategy and consults in this area. Mr. Williams is currently a board member of the UCLA Foundation, as well as a member of the Gill Foundation's OutGiving Advisory Committee.

Mr. Williams has been recognized by various LGBT organizations and publications.  In 2002, the Lesbian and Gay Bar Association honored him with their Co-President's Award, and OUT magazine named him one of their "Out 100" in the December issue.  In October 2003, the L.A. Gay and Lesbian Center presented Williams with its Board of Directors Award. 

Mr. Williams' inaugural donation of $2.5 million to create the Williams Institute is the largest donation ever given to any academic institution in support of a gay and lesbian academic program in any discipline. As the institute has grown, Mr. Williams has given over $11 million to support the organization's programs. Because of his generosity and support, the Institute has impacted policy throughout the country on important LGBT issues.


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