Leadership Development Academy

Richard Williams, Jr., had an impact on everyone who met with him.
Many visitors to Blount County will always have fond memories of our
beautiful county because of a lasting memory of their encounter with
a great man, Richard Williams, Jr. He was not only one of Blount
County's greatest ambassadors, but he was a husband, father,
grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, friend, cousin, deacon,
Sunday School teacher, soldier, and Blount County Commissioner. He
was the perfect example of a faithful servant and friend to God and
man. Richard used his talents and gifts from God: courage, love,
compassion, boldness, and strength to overcome many obstacles.
He became one of the greatest leaders in the history of Blount
County because he was strong in the Lord and in the power of His
might, for he was not ashamed of the Gospel of Christ. It has been
my privilege to have been given the opportunity to observe first hand
through knowing Richard Williams, Jr., the qualities that make a
great leader. I shall be forever grateful that my travels down life's
road included a little time to walk and talk with one of the
greatest leaders I have ever known, Richard Williams, Jr.
-Rhonda Pitts

Richard Williams Prays in The Tennessee State House Chamber

A retired Tennessee Valley Authority Manager, and The Oak Ridge Associated Universities. Williams attended the University of Tennessee. Served on The Alcoa Board of Education, Tennessee Schools Boards Association Board of Directors, Blount County Chamber of Commerce Chairman, Chairman of Blount County Historical Museum, and present Alcoa City Commissioner. Former Youth Department President, AIM Chairman.

Patty Littlejohn - Assistant Executive Director

Patty was involved in the creation of the Academy and brings twenty seven years of experience in personnel management and training to the academy. Patty Littlejohn attended Chabot Community College, in Haywood, California, with extensive experience in Human Resources and Customer Service in the retail industry and food services Patty serves as the primary partner liaison and is responsible for records management , unit coordination, and general academy administration.

Co-Founder of Restoration Christian Fellowship Church, Director of Administration at Life Covenant Ministries/King Temple Church of God in Christ, Nashville. Holds a master’s degree in Clinical Psychology and currently pursuing a doctorate in Educational Leadership. Author; The Church’s Challenge of the New Millennium: Addressing Abuse and Leadership Secrets for Women in Ministry.

Retired Nissan North America professional, general aide at Life Covenant Ministries of Nashville, Tennessee. Involved in Adult Literacy Program, Nashville. Holds B.S. from Middle Tennessee State University.

Graduated from Wakulla High School in 1981 and earned a Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science from Trinity Colleges and University. Entered the United States Army in September 1981. Received several awards and decorations throughout his military career. His life got its best start when he received Christ into his life and no other accomplishment has meant more to him than this one. He enjoys preaching and teaching the word of God.