The College of Education proudly celebrates Orlondo Williams, a proud alumnus of Missouri State University, who has been selected as the next Principal of Cardinal Ritter College Prep, beginning in the 2025–2026 school year.

Following a competitive interview process, Williams was chosen for his strong leadership, deep commitment to student success, and his passion for fostering a school culture built on faith, excellence, and community.

“I thank God for the opportunity to serve as your principal for the 2025–2026 school year,” Williams shared in his address to the student body. “I step into this role filled with deep gratitude, humility, and a lot of Cardinal Ritter Pride. The mission of Cardinal Ritter runs deep in my veins and I am CRCP through and through. To my scholars, I have one promise: to make every decision with your best interests at the center of my heart.”

A leader shaped by education and service

For Williams, this milestone is more than a professional step; it’s personal.

“Being named Principal of Cardinal Ritter College Prep is deeply personal,” he said. “I’m a proud alumnus of this institution, and stepping into this role feels like coming full circle. Professionally, it’s an opportunity to lead a community that poured so much into me and to ensure that our scholars continue to thrive academically, spiritually, and socially. It’s both a privilege and a responsibility I carry with pride.”

Williams’s journey to school leadership reflects years of dedication to education, mentorship, and faith-based service. A proud graduate of Missouri State University’s College of Education, he credits his time at MSU with laying the foundation for the kind of leader he has become.

“My time at Missouri State laid the foundation for who I am as an educator,” Williams explained. “Earning my bachelor’s degree in education there prepared me not just to teach, but to truly reach students. The professors in the College of Education modeled what it means to lead with purpose and passion. Although I earned my master’s degree at Saint Louis University, that experience built upon and perfectly complemented everything I gained at Missouri State. Together, both experiences shaped my approach to leadership and my commitment to educational excellence.”

At Cardinal Ritter, Williams plans to build upon his strong record of supporting student growth, fostering equity, and empowering teachers to reach their highest potential.

“A great school leader leads with vision, empathy, and consistency,” he said. “I strive to be visible and present — in classrooms, hallways, and conversations with students and teachers. Leadership isn’t about titles; it’s about impact. Every decision I make is guided by what’s best for scholars.”

Building the next generation of leaders

Williams is stepping into his new role with clear goals in mind.

“My top priorities are centered on academic excellence, character development, and community connection,” he said. “I want to strengthen our college-preparatory culture, expand opportunities for student leadership, and make sure our scholars leave here confident, compassionate, and prepared to excel beyond our walls.”

His approach reflects the same values he hopes to instill in his students.

“I want them to leave knowing that excellence is who they are,” Williams said. “I hope they understand the power of discipline, faith, and community, and that they see themselves as the next generation of leaders ready to transform the world.”

A proud Bear leading with purpose

Williams’s success highlights the lasting influence of Missouri State’s College of Education alumni in shaping future generations of learners and leaders. His story reflects the university’s public affairs mission; emphasizing ethical leadership, community engagement, and cultural competence.

When asked what advice he’d offer to future educators and aspiring school leaders, Williams said:

“Lead with integrity and heart. Stay grounded in your ‘why,’ especially when the work gets hard. And never forget that education is about people — the relationships you build will always matter more than the policies you enforce.”

Williams added, “Thank you again for thinking of me for this story. I’m proud to represent Missouri State and the College of Education in this new chapter.”

Congratulations, Mr. Orlondo Williams, on this well-deserved achievement. Your leadership and heart for education continue to make Missouri State proud.