URBANA, Ill. (WCIA) — Saturday ushered in a new chapter of governance in Urbana. Both new and incumbent city officials took their oaths, ready to shape the future direction of the city.

Among those leaders, Urbana Mayor DeShawn Williams took the stage for a moment years in the making. 

“We will lead with collaboration ensuring that all voices are heard,” Williams said. 

Williams announced his run in 2022. He overcame Democrat rival Annie Adams in the February primary and proceeded unchallenged in the general election last month.

Armed with weeks of preparation and transition materials, he is nearing the fulfillment of his aspirations. As the city’s first Black male leader, he expressed that his journey demonstrates how a person’s narrative doesn’t have to conclude the way it began.

“I know what it’s like to be judged before I speak or to be seen as a threat before I am seen,” Williams said. “As a person, my lived experience drives my mission. I am not here to perform; I am simply here to transform.”

Williams said he’s already working on ways to combat crime, create jobs and reduce homelessness. Along with his fellow elected officials, he will be administered at the City Council meeting on Monday.