About Willie Stewart
If you’re from Tacoma, you likely know Willie Stewart—educator, veteran, youth advocate, and beloved community pillar. For more than 60 years, Willie has dedicated himself to building inclusive schools, empowering young people, and strengthening the fabric of Pierce County.
Born in Columbus, Texas, in 1935, Willie was the first in his family to attend college, earning his degree from Texas Southern University before serving in the U.S. Army at Fort Lewis. In 1960, he became the first Black male teacher at Gault Junior High and later Tacoma Public Schools’ first Black principal at Lincoln High School. His 36-year career culminated as assistant superintendent, followed by years of continued service as a school board member, volunteer, and mentor.
The Willie Stewart Community Service Scholarship celebrates and recognizes Pierce County high school seniors who have given back to their community through volunteer service. Willie and his longtime friend, Karl Anderson, established the scholarship 25 years ago and partnered with United Way of Pierce County to administer it alongside the Varsity Letter in Community Service program.
Willie’s dedication to Pierce County and his belief in the importance of giving back are values we proudly honor at United Way of Pierce County. The partnership was also a natural fit for United Way, which launched the Varsity Letter in Community Service program to recognize outstanding high school students who volunteer in their communities.
Through this program, United Way awarded more than 3,400 Varsity Letters in Community Service to students who collectively dedicated over 836,000 hours of volunteer service. Within that group, more than 360 high school seniors have received a Willie Stewart Community Service Scholarship in recognition of their volunteer hours, leadership, and commitment to service—representing over $530,000 in scholarships awarded.
Beyond the classroom, Willie’s impact spans decades of involvement with the Tacoma Athletic Commission, United Way of Pierce County, Urban Grace Church, and numerous boards, clubs, and community organizations. His life’s work reflects a simple belief: service to others is the highest calling. Read more here.
Leave a Note for Willie
Please share your favorite memory, a story or anecdote about Mr. Willie Stewart, in honor of his 90th birthday on December 25th. These submissions will be compiled into a book that will be presented to him as a gift on behalf of all those who are so lucky to know him and have been impacted by him. https://forms.gle/
Celebrate Willie’s 90th Birthday.
This year, Willie celebrates his 90th birthday—and he invites the community to celebrate with him by making a gift to United Way of Pierce County, supporting the programs and young people he has championed for a lifetime.
