Central State University’s Sidney Williams selected for prestigious role on Law School Admission Council Prelaw Advisory Council

Above: Central State University Graduate School Preparation Program Director Sidney Williams (right) and Barbara C. DiGiacomo, Esq., associate dean of Administration and Enrollment Management at the University of Akron School of Law C. Blake McDowell Law Center, celebrate a partnership agreement during the launch of the 3+3 program, enabling Marauders to earn a bachelor’s degree and Juris Doctor in six years.

Central State University’s Sidney Williams, director of the Graduate School Preparation Program (GSPP) and an attorney, has been appointed to serve on the Law School Admission Council (LSAC) Prelaw Advisory Council.  

This is a significant achievement for both Williams and the University, as LSAC plays a vital role in promoting access, equity, and fairness in law school admissions across the country. The council’s work aligns with Central State’s mission to foster academic excellence and expand opportunities for underrepresented students. 

Williams boasts nearly two decades of experience at Central State University (CSU), where he has cultivated a robust prelaw program that stands as a model for other universities. His selection to the LSAC Prelaw Advisory Council reflects his deep commitment to preparing students for success in law school and beyond. 

"The LSAC’s mission to advance law and justice by promoting access, equity, and fairness in law school admissions is one that resonates deeply with me, especially as a first-generation college and law school graduate,” Williams said. 

“Serving on this council gives me the opportunity to advocate for HBCUs (Historically Black Colleges and Universities) and small universities like Central State, ensuring that the unique challenges our students face are addressed.” 

Williams launched the Constitution Pre-Law Day at Central State 15 years ago to engage students in critical discussions about constitutional issues that directly affect their lives. The annual event has brought together law school admissions representatives and experts on constitutional topics ranging from Second Amendment rights to freedom of speech on social media platforms.  

Under Williams’ leadership, CSU’s Graduate School Preparation Program has become a gateway for students aspiring to attend law school, medical school, and other graduate programs. The program offers a comprehensive approach to preparation, including personalized coaching on LSAT preparation, the development of personal statements, and exposure to law school environments through visits and guest speakers.  

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One of the program's signature initiatives is its partnership with Kaplan, which provides free LSAT preparation courses to students with qualifying GPAs. Williams emphasized the importance of removing financial barriers to success, particularly for first-generation and minority students who may not have the resources to afford costly test preparation. 

In addition to his work at CSU, Williams has been recognized nationally for his contributions to prelaw education. In 2021, he was named HBCU Prelaw Advisor of the Year, and his program was hailed as a model not only for HBCUs but for all undergraduate institutions preparing students for law school. “Our program offers a level of preparation and support that rivals any other prelaw program in the country,” Williams said. “It’s just a matter of making sure we promote it effectively.” 

Looking ahead, Williams’ role on the LSAC Prelaw Advisory Council will empower him to bring CSU’s perspective to a national platform, helping to shape the future of law school admissions for underrepresented students. His appointment comes at a critical time, as the landscape of higher education and law school admissions continues to evolve in the wake of the 2022 U.S. Supreme Court decision on affirmative action. 

As Williams prepares for his first council meeting in October, he remains focused on his ultimate goal: ensuring that the students have the tools and opportunities they need to succeed.  

“The end goal isn’t just getting into law school,” said Williams. “It’s about passing the bar and becoming a practicing attorney. We work hard to make sure our students are prepared for every step of that journey.” 

For more information about the Graduate School Preparation Program at Central State University, visit centralstate.edu/academics-empowering-success/graduate-school-preparation-program.