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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 on the UCLA Board of Governors and 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. The gift was facilitated by Arnie Kassoy, Mr. Williams' attorney and a UCLA Law graduate. 

Mr. Williams' gift is the first step towards the establishment of an institute for the study of sexual orientation law. When additional funding is secured, it can be used to:

* Endow a faculty chair at the UCLA School of Law.
* Create a journal on sexual orientation law and public policy.
* Sponsor a visiting scholars program.
* Fund original research to inform public policy and legal debates.
* Sponsor additional conferences and speakers.
* Expand scholarship and fellowship programs.

See more information about supporting the Williams Institute.