Rome native Dr. Mark Williams, a pediatric urologist, has been named the new surgeon-in-chief for Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital in Memphis, Tenn.

Williams has practiced at Le Bonheur for 11 years and currently serves as the hospital’s chief of Pediatric Urology.

Williams, the son of Romans Robert and Ella Williams, graduated from Pepperell High School in 1978 and went to play basketball and graduate from Shorter University in 1982 with a degree in chemistry.

Williams graduated from the Medical College of Georgia and completed fellowship training in pediatric urology at University of Tennessee Health Sciences Center and Le Bonheur.

“Dr. Williams is a well-respected surgeon and division chief,” said Le Bonheur President and CEO Meri Armour. “His thoughtful and personable approach will guide this hospital and our surgical program to best meet the needs of our patients.”

Surgeon-in-chief is a newly created position at Le Bonheur. Williams will represent surgical interests and participate in strategic planning efforts for the hospital.

Williams serves as associate professor within the Department of Urology at The University of Tennessee Health Science Center (UTHSC). He is program director of the pediatric urology fellowship program for UTHSC and a faculty member of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Williams is married to the former Julie Ballenger of Rockmart and they have two grown daughters.