Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts grad Garry Williams has returned home to lead as Principal, aiming to cultivate the school’s legacy of artistic excellence. A native of Dallas, Williams brings experience as an artist, actor, director and educator to inspire the next generation of creatives. His journey has come full circle, offering opportunities to current students just as BTWHSPVA gave him. As Principal, Williams feels deep pride in guiding the school’s vision for performing and visual arts. Capitalizing on Dallas’ thriving arts scene, he knows firsthand the possibilities BTWHSPVA provides for driven, creative youth.
PHOTO BY VONDA KLIMASZEWSKI
Tell us about your goals as Principal. I’m truly excited to lead such a unique campus. As Dallas’ revolutionary high school for 21st-century scholar artists, our goal is to provide intensive and integrated training that will promote post-secondary and professional world readiness.
Tell us how being in this role will impact the arts and culture scene in Dallas. In this position, one can create an environment that will foster artistic discovery and expression. This allows the students of Booker T. to be equipped with the knowledge and skills to write the next chapter of our society as artists, patrons, and advocates of the arts.
What does it mean to you to be the Principal, especially since you, too, attended the school? As a graduate of BTWHSPVA, I consider it an honor and privilege to lead the next generation of artists. Educators have a huge responsibility to help students navigate their education journey. Students at Booker T. are encouraged to approach learning through a cross-curricular lens, whereby they can strengthen their artistic and academic skills through disciplinary literacy and connections.
What is your favorite memory about student life at BTWHSPVA? I can remember the former Principal, Dr. Robert Watkins’ daily announcement, “Good morning and welcome to the most unique school in Dallas.” I can say that Dr. Watkins was correct on so many levels. The curriculum, instruction, teachers, students, activities, and atmosphere were completely different from any school that I had previously attended. It was a place where the arts were embraced, and the artists could flourish. The talent of the students was undeniably awesome, and I am grateful that I had an opportunity to witness it firsthand.
What is up next for the students of BTWHSPVA? Last year we celebrated 100 years of our historical building and the legacy it holds in our community. Booker T. Washington once said that “success leaves footprints.” This school has a great history, and there are so many amazing people who have walked these hallways. We will continue to walk in the path that they created, as well as continue to strive for excellence, whereby we will leave a lasting legacy for the next generation.
Photography by:
