Colleague Connection: Josephine Williams
Many things have changed at Northwestern IT over the past 40 years. One constant has been Josephine Williams, the department's longest-serving employee, an accounting specialist on the Administration and Finance team. In this month's Colleague Connection, Josephine shares some notes about what's kept her thriving at Northwestern IT.
As the longest-serving Northwestern IT colleague, what do you want to highlight about your career journey? Any standout moments or accomplishments come to mind?
One of the things I'm most proud of is having had the opportunity to grow and evolve alongside Northwestern IT over many years. As the longest-serving member of the organization, I've witnessed significant changes in technology, processes, and the University's needs. It's been rewarding to adapt and contribute throughout that journey.
What stands out most, however, is the people. I've had the privilege of working with talented colleagues across many generations of Northwestern IT, and seeing the department continue to innovate and succeed has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my career.
Tell us about your role working with Northwestern IT's departmental budget and finances. What teams and processes do you support?
As an accounting specialist for Northwestern IT, my role focuses on monitoring expenses, reconciling outstanding invoices, and processing financial transactions. I work closely with Northwestern IT staff, managers, project teams, and Accounts Payable. This includes processing journal entries, reconciling accounts, and reviewing invoices.
What do you think would surprise people about your work?
People often imagine my work instantly producing facts. What's surprising is that a big part of what I do is quietly weighing context, such as figuring out what the person is really asking, not just what they typed, and adjusting tone and depth so it's useful, not overwhelming.
Another surprise is how often the most helpful thing isn't giving information at all, it's asking a better follow-up question, reframing from a problem, or helping someone think through options.
After 40 years of service, what keeps you excited about work?
After 40 years, what keeps me excited is knowing that I'm still learning and still making a meaningful contribution. Technology, processes, and business needs continue to evolve, so there is always something new to understand and improve. I also enjoy working with people, sharing what I've learned over the years, and helping others succeed. Seeing the impact of my work and being part of a team's success remains very rewarding.
What stands out most, however, is the people. I've had the privilege of working with talented colleagues across many generations of Northwestern IT, and seeing the department continue to innovate and succeed has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my career.”
Accounting Specialist
Administration and Finance
What's changed the most substantially since you first joined Northwestern IT, and how have you adapted?
The most substantial change has been the rapid evolution of technology and the increasing role IT plays in driving business strategy. I've adapted by remaining curious, embracing continuous learning, and being willing to change alongside the organization. After all these years, I've found that staying open to new ideas is just as important as drawing on past experiences.
Any specific technology you have seen introduced or taken away that has radically changed things for you?
The biggest change was the shift from paper-based and locally hosted systems to cloud-based collaboration tools. Things that once required forms, physical signatures, or in-person meetings can now be handled through platforms like Microsoft 365, Teams, and online workflow systems. That fundamentally changed how departments communicate and get work done.
Do you have a favorite spot on campus?
I've always enjoyed walking through the heart of the campus. It's a reminder of the students, faculty, and staff we support every day. The central academic area around Deering Meadow, University Hall, Deering Library, and Norris University Center has always been a draw.
Deering Meadow is one of the most beautiful and iconic gathering spaces and has long served as a focal point for student events, recreation, rallies, and commencement activities. Watching the campus change and growth over the years while still maintaining its sense of community has been special.
Would you like to share anything about your life away from Northwestern IT?
Outside of Northwestern IT, I enjoy spending time outdoors, reading, exploring local events and activities with friends and family, and dancing—which is a great creative outlet and a fun way to stay active. Volunteering is an important part of my life. I enjoy giving back through supporting local nonprofits and participating in service opportunities, especially those that allow me to connect with people and make a positive impact.
Staying involved in my community and taking time to appreciate life's simple moments is something I value deeply. After many years in my career, I've learned the importance of maintaining a balance between work and personal life. Whether it's pursuing hobbies, traveling, volunteering, or simply enjoying time with loved ones, those experiences have helped keep me grounded and brought a lot of joy and perspective over the years.