Carla Williams-Scott serves as the Senior Manager for Strategic Partnerships and Community Outreach for the Kirwan Institute for the Study of Race & Ethnicity at The Ohio State University. In this role, she develops and manages Kirwan’s key strategic partnerships and works to bring Kirwan’s research to communities and policymakers.
Prior to joining Kirwan, Carla served as the first Director for the City of Columbus Department of Neighborhoods. During her eight-year tenure with the Department of Neighborhoods, she spearheaded robust neighborhood community revitalization programs in the Linden, Hilltop and Eastland neighborhoods, fostering stronger connections among residents. Additionally, she prioritized youth programming and was influential in managing several vital initiatives to create safe spaces, encourage inclusivity and empower young voices, including My Brother’s Keeper (MBK) Columbus, the Commission on Black Girls and the New American Leadership Academy. Her commitment extended to enhancing the city’s 311 non-emergency customer service center, ensuring efficient and responsive communication with the community.
As a long-time public administrator, Carla has held several leadership positions in both City and County Government in the departments of Job & Family Services, Development and the Community Relations Commission as well as serving as the Community Affairs Coordinator in the office of Mayor Michael B. Coleman.
Carla earned a Bachelor of Science in Medical Communication from The Ohio State University. She is an active supporter of multiple central Ohio nonprofit and community agencies. She currently holds board positions with the Columbus Metropolitan Library, IMPACT Community Action Agency, Ethiopian Tewahedo Social Services, and the Neighborhood Design Center.