Mary D. Williams is a gospel singer, historian, and educator who has captured the hearts and minds of audiences. She has spent years chronicling the history of the Civil Rights movement through song. A North Carolina native, she spent summers with her grandparents, who were both gospel singers.

During her performances and lectures on gospel music, Williams weaves together African American spirituals from the Civil War era with the anthems of the Civil Rights Movement, creating a bridge between social change and music throughout history.

Williams served as an adjunct professor at the Center for Documentary studies and has co-taught a class called “The South in Black and White” with Duke professor Dr. Tim Tyson. She performs at colleges, churches, and public venues across the United States.