Williams, also the first African-American woman to be crowned Miss America, has gone on the record as a full supporter of marriage equality. "I have many gay friends that are married," she says in a 2005 interview. "Close male friends of mine have been living together as a couple for over 20 years, and they have adopted a beautiful baby girl who is now 3-years old. They are fantastic parents. Other gay couples I know are also looking to adopt. And then I have single gay friends who are adoptive parents."

Williams will accept the award at the HRC New York Gala Dinner on February 23rd.