URBANA, Ill. (WCIA) — Saturday marked a new era of leadership in Urbana. New and returning city leaders were sworn in to service, now tasked with paving the way for how the city moves forward.

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 candidacy back in 2022. He defeated fellow Democrat Annie Adams in February’s primary and ran unopposed in the general election last month.

With weeks of preparation and transition materials under his belt, he’s one step closer to his realized dream. As the first Black man in the role, he said his success shows that a person’s story doesn’t have to end how it started.

“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.