USD's Jing Williams Earns Plaque from the VFW Post 3061
The award holds both personal and professional significance for Williams.
“Personally, it represents the years of service, dedication and commitment I’ve given to the VFW and our community. Professionally, it signifies the impact of community service and the importance of leadership in making a difference,” Williams said.
Over the last decade, Williams’ work and collaboration with the VFW has focused on servicing others through organizing events, supporting local initiatives or providing spaces for veterans to come together.
Her experience working with and reading letters from veterans also inspired her teaching – specifically the “Human Aspects of War” program.
The letters, she said, “opened her eyes to the importance of teaching about war from a human perspective and focusing on the personal experience and emotional realities of military service.”
Other projects, developed in collaboration with students and the community, have offered a platform for veterans to share their stories, including the following.
- "In Flanders Fields" – An art exhibition and silent auction, with all proceeds going to the VFW Post 3061.
- "Clay County’s Fallen" – A research project examining the fallen veterans from Clay County and developing their biographies. These biographies were compiled into two volumes and self-published through a grant.
- "Through Their Eyes: War & Peace" – An ongoing oral history project involving interviewing local veterans, collecting stories, and preserving their memories for future generations.
These initiatives have enriched her students’ education by providing unique, immersive learning experiences while fostering empathy and civic responsibility – characteristics she hopes students take with them post-graduation.
Looking to the future, Williams hopes to continue the important work of hosting these projects within her classroom, engaging students directly within the local community, and continuing the collaboration between USD and the VFW Post 3061.
“VFW Post 3061 has been a vital partner in these endeavors, and together, we’ve been able to make a lasting impact on our community through education, remembrance, and service,” said Williams. “It reminds me of how crucial these efforts are in strengthening the fabric of our community and supporting those who have served in the military while recognizing the importance of civic engagement and historical remembrance.”
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