A catalyst is defined as an agent that provokes or speeds significant change or action.

While Chemical Engineering Professor Christopher Williams studies chemical catalysts in his research, he is having the same effect on his department since starting as the new chair on February 1.

“I’m working to get the word out about our department and the excellence that exists here,” Williams says. “In some ways, our department is a best-kept secret, and we have the opportunity to greatly expand our program.” 

Williams is working to expand outreach in all directions: to bring more students into the department, support faculty research, and create an alumni and industry network.

“Our most important duty is to educate our students, and we are trying to give them as much opportunity as possible to distinguish themselves,” Williams says. “I want to increase our interactions with industry in the state and galvanize faculty to try new and innovative ways to provide opportunities.” 

Williams grew up in northern New Jersey and studied chemical engineering at the University of Delaware. He became involved with research as a sophomore and decided to pursue a career in that area. But during his doctoral studies at Purdue University, he discovered another passion: teaching. 

“Both of my parents were teachers, so that’s kind of in my blood,” Williams says. “I love teaching, in some ways more than research.” 

After graduating from Purdue, Williams completed a postdoctoral fellowship at Oxford University and started as an assistant professor at the University of South Carolina in 1999. 

“At the time, the department was undergoing considerable growth. I felt that as a young faculty member, I would be able to become involved in the development,” Williams says. “And the weather was better here than at Oxford in January.”

Hossein Haj-Hariri, dean of the Molinaroli College of Engineering and Computing, said the close-knit community the department has developed is partly thanks to Williams’ efforts.

"Dr. Williams is a long-time faculty member who cares deeply about the education and well-being of our students. He has always had great ideas for improving our programs and processes. I look forward to working with him more closely," Haj-Hariri says.

As a catalyst brings new energy to a chemical reaction, Williams plans to invigorate and transform the chemical engineering department. Haj-Hariri says he trusts the department in Williams’ hands. 

“He is active, energetic and one of the most dedicated faculty to our undergrads,” Haj-Hariri says. “He really cares about this place, and you can’t beat that.”