On October 30, 2024, the U.S.-Ukraine Business Council (USUBC) gathered in Washington, D.C. to honor the life and legacy of Morgan Williams, the late USUBC President and a champion of U.S.-Ukraine relations. The evening brought together family, friends, colleagues, and USUBC members to celebrate a man whose hard work has left an enduring mark on the U.S.-Ukraine business community and on Ukraine’s modern history. Held at the famed landmark, Organization of American States, the event highlighted Morgan’s lasting impact and commitment to Ukraine’s independence and prosperity.
The evening opened with a heartfelt keynote address from HE Oksana Markarova, Ambassador of Ukraine to the United States, who shared reflections on Morgan’s visionary leadership and his dedication to USUBC’s mission and the Ukrainian people. Ambassador Markarova also presented Morgan’s family with archival photographs, capturing key moments of his impactful journey.
The program continued with a video tribute, followed by touching speeches from Morgan’s son Daren Williams and daughter Denise Ondroff, who shared personal stories and reflections on their father’s life and work. Morgan’s leadership was also celebrated by the U.S. Government representatives – Mark Simakovsky from USAID, and Matt Edwards of the U.S. Department of Commerce, who spoke on Morgan’s pivotal role in advancing U.S.-Ukraine trade and economic relations.
Throughout the event, attendees enjoyed live performances by Gerdan, a Ukrainian-American musical ensemble, and a beautiful bandura duet “Malvy” by Uliana and Kalyna Leshchuk. Cherished memories of Morgan were shared by USUBC colleagues Irina Paliashvili, Nadiia Khomaziuk, Alex Slusarenko, Greg Fishman JD, and tributes from USUBC members were rendered by Tom Bryan from Great Plains Manufacturing, Tanya Shea of the People of Ukraine Foundation, Matthew Murray from Velta —all of whom had closely worked with Morgan. The program, moderated by Eric Luhmann, Chair of USUBC’s Executive Committee, concluded with moving renditions of “My Way” and “Amazing Grace,” the songs honoring Morgan’s unique spirit.
This evening was a remembrance and a celebration of Morgan Williams’ remarkable life, inspiring attendees to carry on his mission for a prosperous and independent Ukraine. His words, “Full Speed Ahead!”, resonated throughout the evening, and we thank everybody for sharing this special event with us.
Photo credit: David Hunsinger