Williams, an American of Indian-Slovenian descent, played a vital role in the evolution of human spaceflight, transitioning from the era of the space shuttle to the current focus on commercial and deep-space missions. "Suni's dedication and leadership have been instrumental in shaping the modern era of human spaceflight," NASA said in a statement. Her experience ranged from flying on the space shuttle to participating in the development of Boeing's Starliner spacecraft, a key component of NASA's Commercial Crew Program aimed at fostering private sector involvement in space travel.

The International Space Station, a joint project involving the space agencies of the United States, Russia, Canada, Japan, and Europe, serves as a crucial platform for scientific research in microgravity. Williams's contributions to the ISS missions have advanced knowledge in fields ranging from medicine and materials science to astrophysics and Earth observation, benefiting researchers and industries worldwide. Her spacewalks, conducted outside the ISS, were essential for maintaining and upgrading the station's infrastructure, ensuring its continued operation and scientific output.

Williams's career also highlights the growing diversity within the astronaut corps, reflecting a global effort to include individuals from different backgrounds and nationalities in space exploration. Her achievements serve as an inspiration for aspiring astronauts around the world, particularly in countries with emerging space programs.

NASA emphasized that Williams's legacy will continue to influence future missions, including the Artemis program, which aims to return humans to the Moon and eventually establish a sustainable presence there. Her experience in long-duration spaceflight and her leadership skills will inform the training and preparation of the next generation of astronauts who will venture beyond Earth's orbit.