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New Orleans Public Schools named Selma City Schools Superintendent Dr. Avis Williams its new Superintendent on Wednesday.

Selma City Schools Superintendent since 2017, Williams was unanimously voted by the New Orleans school board to lead the district. She will become the first black woman and first woman to serve as superintendent.

“My thanks to the OPSB for their trust and confidence,” Williams said in a statement from NOLA Public Schools. “I’m excited to listen — to teachers, students, families, and the NOLA community — and translate what I learn into meaningful actions that I hope will touch lives and open doors for all of our scholars in the future.”

Williams was one of 50 candidates overall and one of 15 interviewed by the board. She will now enter into contract negotiations with the board.

“This is an historic moment for our school system and for our city, and the board is excited to extend the superintendency to Dr. Avis Williams. As the 1st African American woman appointed to lead our District in its more than 180 year history, her breadth of experience as a sergeant in U.S. Army, a teacher, principal, assistant principal, principal, and superintendent will help take our students’ education to the next level,” said Orleans Parish School Board President Olin Parker said in a release.

“Dr. Williams is committed to working with our schools to increase academic achievement, expand access to mental health services for students, and engage deeply with all community members. I am certain of her commitment to ensuring that our graduation rates continue to rise and the doors of success continue to open for our scholars through college, well-paying jobs, and beyond.”

The SCS School Board has placed the Superintendent vacancy on its website.