Jerome Williams: Bringing Our Community to Life Through the Arts

Driven by both creativity and community spirit, Jerome A. Williams II brings bold ideas to life through his work in design and in the arts.  

Over the course of his career, Williams, senior graphic artist at SUNY Erie Community College, has played a central role in shaping the college’s public image. He led the development of a comprehensive rebrand, creating the institution’s current logos, color palette and a cohesive visual identity across web, social media, print and advertising platforms. His work spans brochures, billboards, wayfinding signage, television and radio commercials and digital campaigns, ensuring consistent, strategic and impactful messaging across all channels. He has also coordinated media opportunities for faculty and staff to increase community engagement and has led the Marketing department through periods of transition, maintaining stability and creative excellence. 

Williams is a graduate of the Buffalo Academy of Visual and Performing Arts and the Rochester Institute of Technology. At RIT, he earned an associate degree in illustration and a bachelor’s degree in graphic design. He has more than 25 years of experience in marketing and visual design. 

Beyond higher education, Williams operates his freelance business, O.Sanii Design, where he provides branding and design services for organizations both large and small. His clients include the University at Buffalo, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Visit Buffalo Niagara, Juneteenth Festial Inc., Michigan Street African American Heritage Corridor, Buffalo Public Schools, The Challenger News and numerous local churches and community organizations. Known for cultivating strong relationships with local media and community partners, he has strengthened connections with communities of color through inclusive outreach and meaningful collaboration. 

In addition to his work in marketing and design, he is a professional Latin and Urban dance instructor with more than 15 years of teaching experience. He specializes in Salsa, Bachata, Merengue, Detroit Style Ballroom, Chicago Stepping and Line Dancing. He performs and teaches primarily with Buffalo’s Own Smooth Steppers and Salsa for the Soul. He has also taught dance for Buffalo Public Schools, Canalside, Larkin Square, The Biggest Loser Resort Niagara, as well as local colleges and high schools.  

Williams believes dance should be fun and accessible to all, promoting a healthy lifestyle by nurturing both body and mind. His practical, encouraging teaching style builds confidence, improves retention and creates a welcoming environment centered on joy, connection and community. 

Involved in Buffalo’s cultural life, he served as co-chair of Buffalo’s Kwanzaa Committee for three years and as PR and Marketing chair of Buffalo’s Juneteenth Festival, Inc. for 15 years. He currently serves as a Juneteenth Festival consultant and spokesperson.  

Through his professional, artistic, and community leadership, he continues to inspire and uplift others while sharing his passion for education, culture, creativity and artistic expression. 

What inspires you to work at SUNY Erie?

I’m inspired by the opportunity to help shape the image of the college and give a voice to students and communities who may not have one.  I take pride in my efforts toward inclusion and striving to be an example of excellence.  

What’s one innovation or program that makes SUNY Erie stand out? 

SUNY Erie benefits from being a community-based school that can lean on its close ties and relationships with boots-on-the-ground community members who are passionate about helping others.   

What’s changing in your industry?  

Graphic design is being drastically changed by AI. Since it’s a computer-based field, it will always evolve.  AI is having a huge impact; we just have to make sure we stay current with it.    

What topic are you most passionate about sharing?  

I’m passionate about creative problem-solving and inspiring others through the arts: music, dance and visual arts. 

What skills do today’s students need most to succeed in tomorrow’s workforce? 

Students really need strong interpersonal communication skills and the ability to articulate ideas and actively listen.    

What advice would you give to new students?  

Keep the lines of communication open with your professors, no matter what.  It will help with relationship building and makes problem-solving much easier.