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A legend in Albany’s medical community and civic arena is teaming with Albany State University’s College of Sciences and Health Professions. Dr. Willie Adams, Jr. inked a memorandum of understanding with the institution to serve as a professor in the department.  He will be a guest lecturer in health-related courses; provide class-based demonstrations of medical procedures; advise faculty about student performance during clinical, practicum and experiential learning opportunities at medical facilities; mentor undergraduate and graduates students; and work collaboratively with area hospitals opening the door to off-site lectures and physician shadowing.  The job is a volunteer position which pays a symbolic $1 annually.

“I am deeply honored to have an opportunity to train the next generation of health care providers at this stage in my career,” said Adams, the former mayor of Albany from 2004 to 2012.

The licensed obstetrics and gynecology physician has met the medical needs of Albany for nearly half a century and remains actively involved in community and civic affairs. He is a member of the Diplomat American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the Governor’s Council of Maternal and Infant Care, the American Association of Gynecologic Laparoscopists, the American Medical Association, the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology and the Georgia Medical Society. As an officer in the medical corps of the U. S. Army Reserve, Adams provided aid to military personnel for more than 20 years.

The Florida A & M University and Meharry Medical College graduate joined the U.S. Army as a 2^nd Lieutenant and retired as a Lieutenant Colonel in the U.S. Army Reserve. “The boost that our nursing program has received by this partnership is immeasurable,” said ASU President Dr. Everette J. Freeman. “Dr. Adams’ educational training and 40-year professional track record will be put to good use by our faculty and students which will distinguish our program statewide and nationally,” Freeman added.

Adams has a long and storied history of ASU advocacy. He supported student nurses in the division’s early stages and played a significant role in the university’s acquisition of a grant to construct its stadium and Lula Lovett Hall where football games and major events are held. His influence assisted ASU in obtaining SPLOST funding for traffic signals at the main entrance of campus on Radium Springs and soon, a pedestrian bridge will be built. His support of ASU’s effort to secure funding for the Ray Charles Language, Performing and Visual Arts Center is constant.

A staunch advocate for ASU’s nursing program, Adams will continue to serve as a member of the advisory board providing input about current trends, patient treatment and medical content updates.  ASU has the only nursing program among public historically black colleges and universities in Georgia.  For more information, please telephone the ASU Department of Nursing at (229) 430-4724.