Beyond Books Coaching

Cornelius Williams

Executive Director

Cornelius Williams is a  professional facilitator, public speaker, life insurance agent and success coach and boasts a slew of student success stories & experiences. Cornelius graduated from Miami Northwestern High School and received his Bachelor of Arts in Communication with a concentration in Public Advocacy from the University of South Florida. Upon graduating, Cornelius served as an AmeriCorps member, assisting youth in developing academically and planning for their futures.

Over the years, he has had the pleasure to work with hundreds of students ranging from elementary to graduate students. In addition, he has worked with over 30 organizations both nationally and internationally in various capacities. Ultimately, he believes in continued learning, accountability and transparency. 

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Shani Williams

Program Director

Shani A. Williams has more than a decade of experience advising and mentoring young people ranging from k-12 to the collegiate level. Shani was drawn to her profession by her positive experiences and support she received as a first generation college student. She has held numerous positions in both private and public university career centers in Miami, Tampa, and Washington, DC where she has provided one on one advising, course planning, resume and cover letter critiques and job/internship search strategy workshops to students, organizations, and alumni. 

Mrs. Williams currently serves as the Chief Post Secondary Success Coach at FirstServe USA. Shani holds a M.S. in Higher Education Administration from Florida International University, a B.A. in Applied Sociology from the University of Tampa and is a proud City Year Miami AmeriCorps alumna.