Dec. 15, 2025
With our commencement ceremonies set for Friday, Dec. 19, we’re highlighting a few of the incredible students who will soon be alumni of the College of Health Sciences.
Read on to learn more about Carlee Williams of Fort Walton Beach, Florida, who is completing a BHS in Clinical and Diagnostic Sciences with a respiratory therapy emphasis.
Carlee Williams
Degree: BHS in Clinical and Diagnostic Sciences, respiratory therapy emphasis
Hometown: Fort Walton Beach, Florida
Favorite quote:
“A smooth sea never made a skilled sailor.”
— Franklin D. Roosevelt
An interesting fact about you (that people might not know):
A fun fact about me is that I love cooking and baking for others. It’s one of the ways I find joy in serving people, much like I do in my role in health care.
What does graduating from the Mizzou College of Health Sciences mean to you?
Graduating from the College of Health Sciences represents a major turning point in my career and personal growth. It’s more than a degree or a piece of paper; it’s the foundation that allowed me to evolve my career from a night-shift respiratory therapist into a clinical resource director. This program gave me the confidence and knowledge to pursue leadership roles and ultimately inspired me to continue my education and career journey to my next steps!
What was one of your favorite classes within your degree track?
Medical Ethics was one of my favorite classes. It challenged me to think critically about the intersection of clinical care, patient rights and organizational decision-making. The course helped me better understand how ethical frameworks guide health care leadership and shaped how I approach complex decisions in my current role.
What activities have you been involved in along the way?
Along the way, I’ve been engaged in health care operations and leadership development. While working full time, I transitioned from bedside care to department management and eventually into a director role in supply chain.
I’ve also enjoyed mentoring and engaging respiratory therapy students who came to my facility for training through the United States Air Force, which allowed me to support the next generation of clinicians.
Who helped you during your college journey?
I am deeply grateful to my professors, especially Jennifer Keely, for their guidance and encouragement throughout this program. I also want to thank my professional mentors and leaders, who supported me, challenged me and encouraged me to grow at every stage of my career.
Most importantly, my husband, Loy, has been a pillar of encouragement and support, standing by me through each transition and motivating me to keep striving toward my goals.
What memories stand out from your time at Mizzou?
What stands out most to me are the moments of growth while balancing work, school, being a wife and mother, and serving as an active community member in youth sports. Managing all of these responsibilities alongside my studies was challenging, but it gave me experiences that shaped both my career and personal journey.
What are your plans after graduation?
After graduation, I plan to attend Louisiana State University to pursue my Master of Health Administration. I’m excited to continue building my career in the operational side of health care leadership.
What advice do you have for current and future students?
Don’t be afraid to evolve. Your career path may shift in ways you never expected, and that’s OK. Stay open to new opportunities, lean into your strengths and surround yourself with people who challenge and support you. Also, ask questions and take notes.
Anything else you’d like to share?
Just a big thank you to everyone who supported me along the way. This journey has truly changed my life.