Olajide Williams, M.D., M.S., is a distinguished professor of neurology and vice dean of Community Health at Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons. He is vice chair of the Department of Neurology, an attending physician at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, and a clinical neurologist at Columbia University Irving Medical Center.
A global leader in stroke disparities research and community-based behavioral intervention, Dr. Williams serves as principal investigator on multiple NIH-funded grants focused on improving prevention and outcomes in underserved communities.
In addition to his teaching, for which he has twice received the Outstanding Teacher of the Year award, he has successfully moved the needle in addressing healthcare disparities and promoting greater diversity and inclusion in academic medicine.
A champion of public health, Dr. Williams co-directs the Columbia Center for Community Health, which trains community health workers in Upper Manhattan and provides people with preventative measures to improve their health. This innovative program serves as a model for replication in other communities.
He is co-founder, along with hip-hop icon Doug E. Fresh, of Hip Hop Public Health, a groundbreaking organization that uses music, culture, and science to engage young people and their families in improving health behaviors and outcomes.
Dr. Williams has published numerous scholarly articles and the book “Stroke Diaries” and has received many prestigious honors and awards.
