Vanessa Lynn Williams (born March 18, 1963) is an American singer, songwriter, and actress. A multi-faceted performer possessing both stunning looks and immense talent, Vanessa Williams found success in nearly every part of the entertainment industry. Ms. Williams made history when she became the first African-American woman to be crowned Miss America on September 17, 1983. Williams' reign as Miss America came to an abrupt end when scandal led to her subsequent resignation of the title. Overcoming scandal and the loss of the Miss America title in 1984, Williams’ strength of character, grace and talent helped establish her as a sought-after vocalist and actress.

Williams rebounded by launching a career as an entertainer, receiving Grammy, Emmy, and Tony award recognition while perfecting her craft.  She has released eight albums, selling over four million copies worldwide. As an actress, Williams starred on Broadway, television and in feature films. On stage, she turned in a Tony Award-nominated performance in “Into the Woods”; on film, she starred in numerous films including “Eraser” (1996) and “Soul Food” (1997). With a career that spanned two decades, Williams established herself as a leading talent across the board, proving her staying power by returning to television as Wilhelmina Slater on the hit ABC series “Ugly Betty”.