NASCA Press Release: Aundra Williams Announced as 2025 Distinguished Deputy Award Recipient
For Immediate Release
October 27, 2025
Contact: Elizabeth Whitehouse, Executive Director, executivedirector@nasca.org
NASCA Press Release: Aundra Williams Announced as 2025 Distinguished Deputy Award Recipient
Springfield, IL — The National Association of State Chief Administrators is proud to announce Aundra Williams, Assistant Director of the Illinois Department of Central Management Services (CMS), as the recipient of the NASCA 2025 Distinguished Deputy Award.
The Distinguished Deputy Award was established to recognize a deputy of a State Chief Administrator (CAO) for outstanding contributions to the work of state government operations. This award honors leaders who have demonstrated exceptional performance, innovation, and commitment to advancing state government.
Throughout his tenure, Williams has led transformative initiatives that have improved the efficiency, equity, and effectiveness of Illinois’ administrative systems. Williams spearheaded the efforts to modernize Illinois’ procurement billing structure to align with best practices. He has championed improving supplier diversity by expanding opportunities for businesses owned by underrepresented communities. Under his leadership, Illinois also advanced its environmental goals through the purchase of 1,300+ vehicles for the State’s fleet, including 150 electric vehicles. Most recently, Williams led the statewide rollout of telematics data technology to optimize fleet management, improve safety, and reduce maintenance costs.
“Aundra’s journey from intern to Assistant Director of the CMS is a true model of public service that has left a lasting impact on the state of Illinois,” said NASCA Executive Director Elizabeth Whitehouse. “He represents the best aspects of state service – effectiveness, passion, and collaboration. NASCA is honored to recognize Assistant Director Williams as this year’s Distinguished Deputy Award recipient.”
Upon nominating Williams, Raven DeVaughn, Director the Illinois Department of Central Management Services, praised Williams’ impact and leadership.
“Aundra’s innovation, experience, and fingerprints are on so much of what has gone right in Illinois over his tenure. Aundra personifies what it means to be the quintessential public servant. His people-centered approach ensures that the needs and perspectives of clients are always at the forefront of his work. As a thought leader and a passionate champion of both the mission and the people who execute it, Aundra consistently elevates the impact of CMS.”
Director DeVaughn continued, “Ultimately, Aundra’s leadership in the community and at the State of Illinois style exemplifies collaboration, respect, and a steadfast dedication to public service, making him an invaluable asset to the State and an exemplary candidate for this distinguished award.”
Williams’ professional journey – from CMS Intern to Assistant Director – demonstrates his unwavering commitment to public service. Under his leadership, Illinois has advanced in efficiency and innovation while fostering a culture that values people and community. Williams’ exceptional dedication to service reflects the qualities celebrated by the NASCA Distinguished Deputy Award.
Founded in 1976, NASCA is the nation’s only nonpartisan, nonprofit organization serving chief administrative officers or CAOs. NASCA provides a forum for state chief administrative officers to exchange information and learn new ideas from each other and private sector partners. NASCA engages states in transforming government operations through shared knowledge, operational excellence, and thought leadership.
For more information on NASCA, please visit NASCA.org.
