GRACE Marketplace announced Monday the selection of Darius Williams as its next CEO, with a public meet-and-greet scheduled for next week.  

Williams worked as director of outreach programs in Ohio and also served as an acting dean and program chair at Rasmussen University. According to GRACE Marketplace, he also brings nonprofit experience after serving as a board chair for over a decade.  

More recently, he’s worked with homeless families as a forensic therapist.  

“I am honored to join GRACE Marketplace as CEO and to continue the vital work of supporting our neighbors experiencing homelessness,” Williams said in a release. “GRACE has already built a strong foundation of compassion and innovation, and I look forward to working alongside our dedicated team, partners, and community to expand sustainable solutions that restore dignity, stability, and hope.”   

A meet-and-greet will happen from 5  to 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 9, at The Good Pour (5180 SW 34th Street, Gainesville).  

Former CEO Jon DeCarmine stepped down at the end of 2024, and GRACE Marketplace placed vice president of advancement John Thomas in the role as interim. Earlier this year, the nonprofit announced its search for a permanent chief executive.  

Kevin Spellicy, chair of the GRACE Marketplace Board of Directors, welcomed Williams and said the nonprofit is thrilled to have him.  

“His proven track record of leadership, deep commitment to service, and ability to bring people together will be invaluable as we enter this next chapter for GRACE,” Spellicy said. “We are confident that under his leadership, GRACE will continue to grow as a national model for compassionate, effective responses to homelessness.”