Co-Founder, Phive Deuce Entertainment
Former President, Little Rock Black Nurses Association of Arkansas
From the Bedside to the Ballot: A Nurse Leader’s Journey to Empower Arkansas
At The Nurses Lounge of Central Arkansas, we celebrate nurses who embody leadership, compassion, and purpose—those who go beyond their clinical roles to create impact in their communities.
This week’s Nurses Who Inspire spotlight shines on Dr. Jason Williams, a psychiatric-mental-health and family nurse practitioner, educator, and advocate whose journey from hospital care to public service has positioned him to bring the voice of nursing to the Arkansas State Capitol.
Early Inspiration & Purpose
Dr. Williams’ calling to nursing began at home. As a child, he watched his younger brother struggle with seizures—an experience that inspired him to dedicate his life to helping others.
“I saw how much this condition affected my parents, and I made a promise to myself that I wanted to one day find a cure so my brother could live a healthier life,” he shared.
That childhood promise evolved into a career built on compassion and advocacy. Over 17 years at Arkansas Children’s Hospital and UAMS, Dr. Williams has worked in the burn unit, medical-surgical and intensive-care settings, and now specializes in child and adolescent psychiatry. Those encounters have taught him the power of listening, empathy, and using one’s voice to advocate for those who feel unseen.
“Having fought for patients and families in healthcare, I also think about those in the community who may feel they lack an advocate,” he said. “That has driven me to get involved in issues like mental-health awareness, men’s health, and maternal mortality.”
Leadership & Advocacy
As former President of the Little Rock Black Nurses Association of Arkansas (LRBNAA), Dr. Williams helped rebrand and revitalize the organization, advancing conversations on health disparities and creating new opportunities for recognition within the profession.
“One of my proudest achievements was establishing our first-ever scholarship and awards banquet to honor excellence across nursing and allied-health specialties,” he said.
His dedication has earned him honors from the Sigma Chi Chi Chapter of Chi Eta Phi Sorority, Inc. and the National Black Nurses Association, recognizing his humanitarian impact. Yet, he remains grounded:
“I’ve never pursued this work for recognition,” he noted. “I do it out of genuine love and passion for helping others.”
-Dr. Jason Williams
Answering the Call: Running for State Senate, District 13
Dr. Williams’ decision to run for the Arkansas State Senate, District 13, stems from a belief that nurses must have a seat at the policy table.
While completing his advanced degrees at Vanderbilt University, he was introduced to Healing Politics, a movement empowering nurses to lead in public office. Later, through advocacy around maternal-mortality disparities and legislative initiatives with the Arkansas Birthing Project, he saw firsthand how policy decisions affect health outcomes.
“Many of the challenges in patient care are the direct result of policies established at higher levels,” he explained. “That realization convinced me that I am just as qualified as anyone to help shape those policies.”
If elected, Dr. Williams plans to champion healthcare access, education, and economic opportunity, emphasizing the role of evidence-based decision-making and lived experience.
“My nursing background gives me a unique lens to craft policies rooted in compassion, data, and real-world impact,” he said.
Beyond Healthcare: Building Community Through Phive Deuce Entertainment
Outside of medicine and politics, Dr. Williams co-founded Phive Deuce Entertainment with business partner Kelvin Trimble. The company hosts upscale social events that celebrate Black professionals and culture across Arkansas.
“Our events foster camaraderie, cultural pride, and connection,” he said. “Phive Deuce was built to uplift Black talent and strengthen our community’s fabric.”
Their inaugural event in January drew professionals, artists, and organizations together in a celebration of Black excellence, setting the stage for a larger MLK Weekend celebration in 2026.
“Seeing people connect, feel inspired, and take pride in our culture—that’s the most rewarding part,” Dr. Williams said.
Personal Growth & Legacy
Earning four degrees from Vanderbilt—including his Doctor of Nursing Practice in 2023—Dr. Williams exemplifies lifelong learning.
“The ever-changing healthcare landscape, along with the opportunity to influence policy, education, and patient care, fuels my commitment to growth,” he shared.
Balancing his roles as clinician, educator, entrepreneur, and candidate requires focus and structure.
“I set specific goals, delegate when possible, and stay grounded in purpose,” he said. “Each role amplifies the other—they all connect back to serving people.”
Ultimately, Dr. Williams hopes his story inspires others:
“I want nurses and Arkansans to know they can be agents of change. Your voice matters, and your experiences can drive progress.”
Looking Ahead: A Vision for District 13
If elected, Dr. Williams plans to prioritize:
- Expanding healthcare access in rural and underserved areas
- Investing in education and workforce training
- Supporting small-business growth and economic development
“My goal is to lay a foundation for sustainable, inclusive progress that improves quality of life and empowers every resident in District 13,” he said.
He encourages nurses and citizens alike to get involved:
“Share your stories, volunteer, and advocate. Together we can build a healthier, more equitable Arkansas.”
A Message to Voters
“I will bring compassionate, informed, and accountable leadership to the Arkansas State Senate. I’m committed to listening, collaborating, and making decisions that promote equity and opportunity for all Arkansans.”
– Dr. jason williams
About Dr. Jason Williams
- Profession: Psychiatric-Mental Health & Family Nurse Practitioner
- Education: Henderson State University (BSN 2009); Vanderbilt University School of Nursing (MSN 2016, Post-Master Cert PMHNP 2021, CNE 2022, DNP 2023)
- Community Service: Arkansas State Director of Social Action (Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Inc.), Advisor to the Little Rock Sigma Beta Club, Former President of LRBNAA
- Campaign Focus: Healthcare access • Education • Economic opportunity • Community empowerment
Support the Campaign
📍 Learn more about Dr. Williams’ platform and upcoming community events by following his campaign online.
🗳️ District 13 residents: stay informed, register to vote, and make your voice heard.
Click HERE to Follow Jason For AR on Facebook!
Empowered Nurses, Empower Arkansas!
At The Nurses Lounge of Central Arkansas, we believe that nurses are the heartbeat of every community—and when nurses lead, communities thrive.
✨ Here’s how you can get involved:
- 📰 Subscribe to our Inside the Lounge newsletter for more inspiring stories like Dr. Williams’.
- 💬 Join our online community at loungenurse.com to connect with local nurses and leaders.
Together, we’re redefining what it means to be a nurse in Arkansas—one connection, one story, and one inspired leader at a time.
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