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Florida Gateway College Bd Honors Mike Williams of Nutrien: “A supporter and great friend”

Mike Williams (second from left) with President Barrett, wife Laurie, Uncle Johnny, and Board President William Crawford.
Mike Williams (second from left) with President Barrett, wife Laurie, Uncle Johnny, and Board President William Crawford.          Columbia County Observer photo.

COLUMBIA COUNTY, FL – Last night, the Florida Gateway College board recognized alumni and benefactor Mike Williams for his support of the college.

FGC board president Michael Crawford thanked Mr. Williams for being a "long-time supporter and great friend of the college."

Mike Williams (center) with wife Laurie and Uncle Johnny (Johnny Bryant) listen to President Barrett. Mr. Williams explained that his Uncle Johnny has been instrumental in his life from the beginning.
Mike Williams (center) with wife Laurie and Uncle Johnny (Johnny Bryant) listen to President Barrett. Mr. Williams explained that his Uncle Johnny has been instrumental in his life from the beginning. Members of the FGC staff look on.

College President Larry Barrett said, “Mike welcomed me here seven years ago. He has done so much for this college: in his role as an alumnus, Mike has been a dear colleague, supporter of me and this college for many years. I thought it was appropriate per the board's request that we honor him in appreciation for the dedicational service."

Florida Representative Chuck Brannan talks about his friend, Mike Williams.
Florida Representative Chuck Brannan talks about his friend, Mike Williams.

Florida House of Representatives member and FGC board member Chuck Brannan said, “We are glad you’re here…What a friend he’s been. You walk around the campus; you walk around the library; you'll see the Nutrien name there, the sponsor of many of our facilities. I don't know that you'll see the Nutrien name without Mike Williams behind it.”

Representative Brannan continued, “When the company had a little extra community service money at the end of the year, Mike was always looking out for the college. If there were some extra dollars he could turn and send our way, he did that.”

Mike Williams served as Nutrien’s Government & Industry Affairs Manager from July 2006-June 2021. Nutrien was formerly PCS.

Mr. Williams also served on the Foundation board for five years.

Mike Williams addresses the college board and President Barrett.
Mike Williams addresses the college board and President Barrett.

Mr. Williams said:  “My lovely wife is here with us tonight. She’s always the one who’s helped me out a lot; stood behind me; pushed me in the right direction. None of the most things that I do would be possible without her or him. (Mr. Williams' "him" referred to his Uncle Johnny Bryant, who has been his “mentor and lifelong friend.”)

Representative Brannan added, “His whole life has revolved around community service, and we just want to show our appreciation.”

Board member Miguel Tepedino praised Mr. Williams for his service to the community.

Board member Suzanne Norris thanked Mr. Williams “for your time you put into this organization.”

Board member Kathryn McInnis said, “I want to thank you for your love of Florida Gateway and your service to our foundation.”

Board member Renae Allen said, “There are so many ways you contribute to our community,” Ms. Allen added that with Nutrien's help, the science fairs are a success.


Mike Williams in a pensive moment as he thanks the College board for his recognition.

Mr. Williams came to the microphone, “Thank you. I thank each and every one of you for what you do.”

Addressing President Barrett, he said, “He's just great. The college is lucky to have a man of his character, knowledge, and skill set.”

Mr. Williams said that while in the army, he started his college career at Lake City Community College (now FGC). In 1981 he received an AS degree in police science.

He continued, “I’m a testament that you can start here and go on to other things…This institution is good for our community. The more educated we are, the better we are.”

Wrapping it up, Mr. Williams said, "I see this place as a shining example of how things can be, and we are lucky to have it here in Lake City. Thank you.”

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