Dr. Tonja M. Williams Knight, a leading voice on education, has been the superintendent of the Buffalo Public Schools, the second-largest school district in New York State, since July 14, 2022, when the Buffalo Board of Education unanimously appointed her as superintendent.

As a lifelong learner, Dr. Williams Knight has earned degrees in both executive leadership and business administration, as well as professional and administrative certifications. Her doctoral dissertation work on African American students and the college application process was chosen as the "Most Scholarly Dissertation" by her graduating doctoral cohort. Dr. Williams Knight also earned a Harvard University "School Leader Turnaround Certificate."

Her work has also included administrative positions at Alfred University and Johnson C. Smith University, a historically black college or university in Charlotte, North Carolina. At Canisius College, Bryant & Stratton Business Institute, she served as an adjunct professor. Dr. Williams Knight attributes much of her success to her parents, Mr. Anthony Benson, Jr., and Ms. Elizabeth Benson, who instilled in both her and her sister, Michelle, the qualities of persistence, hard work, and honesty.