Dr. Harriet Williams was a major contributor to the growth and progress of Delaware State University as a quality institute of higher learning in the State of Delaware. She served as chairperson of the Chemistry Department for 36 years.

Dr. Williams was a 1931 graduate of the Delaware School for Negro Students. She was a 1934 graduate of Delaware State College and received a Master of Science degree in 1937 from Atlanta University, Atlanta, Georgia. She was awarded an Honorary Doctor of Science degree by Delaware State University.

Concurrent with performing the duties of teacher and department chair (1950 -1986), Dr. Williams served in various other capacities. Some of these included: Director of Lore Residence Hall for College Women, Counselor for College Women Students, Acting Chairperson of the Division of Natural Science and Mathematics, Acting Registrar, Director of Alumni Affairs and Public Relations, Assistant to the Director of Admissions, Interim Vice President and Dean of Academic Affairs and Director of Minority Biomedical Research Support Program. Dr. Williams was a member of the American Chemical Society. She was inducted into the Hall of Fame of Delaware Women in 1994.