HIP Spotlight: Kyvonne Williams, Project Specialist
Meet Kyvonne, a dedicated professional specializing in grant lifecycle management. A former education teacher with a rich background, Kyvonne brings a unique perspective to her current role as a deliberation specialist in the grant paneling process. Her work is incredibly time-consuming and requires meticulous attention to detail and a deep understanding of various fields.
Kyvonne thrives in her role, finding joy in collaborating with a diverse group of panelists. These experienced professionals come from a wide array of backgrounds and career fields, making each panel discussion dynamic and intellectually stimulating. Kyvonne’s ability to facilitate these discussions ensures that the grant application evaluation process is seamless and unbiased.
Q Which projects are you working on for HIP?
KW I am currently working with the Department of Labor/Veterans’ Employment and Training Service (VETS) unit as a Grants Life Cycle Specialist.
Q How did you get started in your line of work?
KW I have a background in education. I was a teacher for five years prior to working for HIP. After the pandemic hit and it was time to transition back into the classroom, I decided to explore other fields of work. I applied to the GLCS position with HIP and got the call back.
Q What are your favorite types of projects to work on?
KW I really enjoy working as a Deliberation Specialist in the Paneling process. It is a very time-consuming process, but I enjoy being able to work with so many panelists, comprised of experienced professionals from such a large variety of backgrounds and career fields. I do work with the entire grant cycle, so pre-award through post award. I serve as a deliberation specialist a few times a year, but outside of that I mainly process the documents necessary to fulfill the requirements of each grant award.
Q What difference has working at HIP made in your career?
KW Working at HIP has given me the opportunity to transition into a different career field and see new possibilities of where my career could go. Within my position, I have worked on several projects with people in my direct unit and even other units on occasion. From this, I have increased my collaboration skills as well as my knowledge of the world of Grants Management.
Q. If you could make one impression on our clients, what would it be?
KW One impression I would like to leave is my ability to thrive in any position, completing tasks with accuracy and efficiency. It is very important to me to always do my best on any task that is assigned to me and to ensure the goals and needs of my position are met.
Q What is the best career lesson you’ve learned so far?
KW The best career lesson I have learned so far is to always ask questions if you need clarity or support. Consulting your supervisor or colleagues when you need help is likely much easier than attempting to figure something out on your own. Everyone on your team has a skill set that makes them uniquely fit for the job, so utilize the support that is built into your team.
Q How do you stay self-motivated?
KW I stay self-motivated by planning out my workday before I get started. That way, as I complete tasks throughout the day, I can visually see what I have accomplished and what I have remaining before I end my day. This also helps me stay on top of my workload and keep track of my progress. Visible progress motivates me, so seeing the checked boxes in my planner always keeps me going.
Outside of her professional life, Kyvonne has a passion for chic style and exploring new restaurants and dining experiences. She loves shopping, traveling, and engaging in a plethora of self-care activities. Kyvonne blends her professional fulfillment, continuous learning, and personal enjoyment, making her a well-rounded and inspiring individual.