The star of the diamond: Jahi Williams

Growing up with six siblings in an inner-city household with financial difficulties in Jersey City, N.J., College of Saint Elizabeth student-athlete Jahi Williams was forced to mature quickly. With so many distractions and challenges early in life, Jahi used baseball as an outlet to develop his maturity, athletic ability, dedication and persistence.

Jahi’s undeniable baseball talent and hunger to achieve success in all aspects of life earned him an academic scholarship to Saint E’s, where he is now a star on the baseball diamond and in the classroom.

“Receiving scholarship money helps out a lot because it takes out a big portion out of tuition which makes college more affordable,” says Jahi. “I decided to study business because as a young kid I was always fascinated with the business world. I always had dreams of starting up a business of my own. Saint E's provides an exceptional business program that will guide me in the right path.”

Jahi is also a leader on the baseball field, and delivered a performance for the ages in the program’s inaugural game at Rutgers-Newark on Feb. 25. He batted 2-for-3 at the plate with two RBIs and two runs scored. He also struck out one batter, and recorded two outs on the mound late in the game as the Eagles completed an incredible comeback victory, 9-7, after trailing 7-0 early in the contest. He is credited individually with the program’s first-ever win.Upon graduating, Jahi hopes to become a forensic accountant. Saint E's provides a dual degree program that allows students to obtain a master's degree within five years, and he plans on obtaining a master’s in accounting.

With an infectious, upbeat and positive personality, Jahi is someone who is easy to get along with and can relate to many others. Additionally, he enjoys giving back to his community and doing charity work.

“My favorite thing about Saint E’s is that everybody is supportive towards each other,” says Jahi. “Saint Elizabeth is a big family. I feel like it is a place that provides the first step into your future. During my time here, I have already grown into a better individual, as well as a better player and teammate.”