By Elandra Fernandez

The musical preference your parents had during your upbringing plays a vital role in shaping your worldview. The parents of Jessica Williams, affectionately known as Ms. Jessica, played a diverse catalog of music, resulting in Jessica having a well-rounded perspective to bring to the radio industry.

Growing up, music was frequently played in Jessica Williams household. Her dad would sit in their living room and play his records, he would even make “love” mixtapes for her mom when he wasn’t assuming the role of a DJ. Jessica was first introduced to the microphone when she did the morning announcements in middle and high school. She merged her love for talking with her love of music, and that’s when her career in radio came to fruition.  

Being a military baby, Jessica moved from New Orleans shortly after birth to be raised in Virginia Beach but now resides in Charlotte, North Carolina. She’s outgoing, passionate, silly, a music lover, and talkative. 

Jessica works for Beasley Broadcasting and is the co-host of “The Morning Madhouse” on WPEG Power 98. When asked, what’s the best thing about being on the radio? Jessica eagerly responded, “EVERYTHING! I absolutely love radio! I love the experiences that come along with radio and I learn so much through those experiences. I am a VOICE and I take that responsibility very seriously.” Jessica Williams has been doing radio for 14 years and spent all her years at Power 98. In fact, she had her first on-air shift the morning of her college graduation.

Jessica is involved in a multitude of activities outside of radio, mostly contributing to her community. Her love for kids is phenomenal! She used to be in the school system full-time as an in-school suspension teacher. She started working for a non-profit called “Communities in School” where she worked with youth on their academic enhancement, behavior, and attendance. Jessica also does a lot of youth programs, like, “Ms. Jessica Power Promotes” which recognizes students that make the honor roll or straight A’s on their report cards. “Ms. Jessica’s Big Cut” which provides free haircuts and book bags for students the day before school starts, in addition to many more events. She lives by this quote, “to whom much is given, much is expected.” Working with the youth in addition to radio is Jessica’s passion. She also enjoys traveling, reading, watching movies, and listening to all types of music.

One of the obstacles Jessica had to face was the wait time, it took her over 10 years to become full time. During her part-time years, she missed out on a lot of holidays, celebrations and vacations. Despite her absence, it definitely prepared her for the role she has today. Now that she is “in the game,” she can put all those lessons to use and strive for greatness!