By: Annie Raso, Schieffer Associates 2024
Tracy Williams ’04 ’08
Tracy Reneé Williams ’04 ’08 is a seasoned leadership coach with bachelor’s and master’s degrees in communication studies and over two decades of experience spanning industries from energy to tech.
As the founder of TraComm Development Group and co-founder of The Collective, she is dedicated to empowering leaders through meaningful conversations that drive growth and innovation. A TEDx speaker and 40 Under 40 honoree, Tracy has worked across more than 10 countries, sharing her expertise in leadership and interpersonal communication.
Tell me about yourself.
I am a seasoned leadership development coach and expert in interpersonal communication, with a career spanning two decades across industries from energy to tech. I chose TCU based on the recommendation of my guidance counselor. She knew about my preferences for a smaller school, the desire to be far enough from home to feel like I truly left, but close enough to get home when I needed to. I’d never heard of the school, but I’m so thankful for her recommendation.
What did your career path look like after graduation?
My early days started at Chevron, which I later served as vice president of learning and development at Valence. I have worn many hats and walked in many shoes. But it was my role in designing BONDS – a transformative leadership program for over 300 professionals from underrepresented backgrounds aiming for the C-suite – that truly ignited my passion for creating spaces where diverse voices could thrive.
What at TCU made you feel the most prepared for your career?
My professors and mentors; especially Dr. Anne Lucchetti and Dr. Darron Turner. They prepared me with skills beyond the classroom that I’ve never forgotten.
Did you know what you wanted to do when you came to TCU? How did you decide?
I wanted to be a sports journalist when I first arrived, but I took Interpersonal Communication (taught by Dr. Lucchetti) and I was hooked! I changed my major from journalism to communication studies and never looked back.
What’s one piece of advice you have for current students?
Be curious and expand your knowledge beyond your major. Taking the class doesn’t quite make sense; join a club that doesn’t seem like your personal status quo. These are the ways you begin. You never know where those experiences will lead you.
As an alumnus, has TCU helped you in your career after you left?
I was hired by TCU after completing my master’s degree, and I established great working relationships with colleagues across the campus. I also currently have clients across the TCU ecosystem. Additionally, I’ve learned that in giving back (i.e. I served as TCU Alumni President 2020-2023), you gain so much more in terms of relationships and opportunities.