August 12, 2024
The Shawnee State University Board of Trustees has awarded Joseph Watson with Trustee Emeritus recognition following the completion of his term on the governing body. Watson, who began his appointment in 2015, served two years as Board Chair during his nine-year term of service.
“Mr. Watson was an exemplar trustee and this recognition by his colleagues on the board is well earned,” said SSU President Eric Braun. “Joe led the university through a lot of opportunities and a lot of challenges. He has a sharp business mind, but always thought about students first. He pushed us to elevate the college experience.”
During his time on the SSU Board of Trustees, Watson helped advanced education in southern Ohio by supporting initiatives like the Shawnee Advantage Undergraduate Tuition Guarantee Program and the Free Tuition Pell-Eligible program for surrounding counties, both of which made college possible for more students in the region. He also worked to advance programming in business degrees through his support of the creation of the C.H. Lute School of Business. He was instrumental in the establishment of the Kricker Innovation Hub to foster entrepreneurship and economic development while also providing leadership as Board Chairperson during one of the most challenging times in the university’s history during the global pandemic.
Trustee Emeritus status is a distinguished award designation bestowed to previous Board of Trustee members who have made significant impacts on the Shawnee State University mission and growth of the institution. In SSU’s 38-year history, seven former Trustees have received the recognition.