Carnell Williams receives Chamber of Commerce Spirit of Auburn award

AUBURN, Ala. – Auburn associate head football coach Carnell Williams received the Spirit of Auburn award at the Auburn Chamber of Commerce's annual meeting Wednesday at the Gogue Performing Arts Center for his efforts in reviving the business community while serving as interim head coach last fall.

"It's an honor and pleasure to stand before you and receive this award," Williams said. "I'm very thankful. I'm honored to be part of this family. It's forever life changing."

Auburn Chamber of Commerce board chair Julie Melton presented the award to Williams.

"The spirit of Auburn is demonstrated by leading by example, through serving, being disciplined and believing," Melton said. "There is no way to deny the enormous boost that came to the Auburn community when Coach Cadillac inspired a team of players to work together as a family and to believe in themselves.

"His leadership truly infused life back into this community. Winning coaches are good for our economy, but more than wins, we would be remiss if we didn't recognize the great example you
provided.

"Thank you for reminding us of the importance of believing in a common goal, being disciplined and taking the opportunity to serve. You have inspired us and truly demonstrated what it means to be a part of the Auburn family."
 Carnell Williams with Auburn mayor Ron Anders
While Williams made his way to the stage to receive the award, Auburn mayor Ron Anders, a former Auburn University cheerleader, led attendees in a War Eagle yell.

"This is the Auburn spirit I fell in love with over two decades ago," Williams said after the program, between taking pictures with attendees. "I'm excited to be part of this family, excited to serve, excited to continue to give back and pour into others' lives, and make true change.

"I'm excited to help this community and bring light to this world. I'm very appreciative and humbled to have this opportunity to receive this award."

Williams' wife, Evan, helped arrange her husband's appearance at the event, without letting him know he'd be receiving the prestigious award.

"I was very surprised," he said. "I didn't know until my name was actually called, but I am honored and I thank God for this opportunity. I thank my family, I thank the Auburn community and this great chamber."
 Carnell and Evan Williams with Auburn Chamber of Commerce chair Julie Melton
Jeff Shearer is a Senior Writer at AuburnTigers.com. Follow him on Twitter: @jeff_shearer