Jessica Watson (M.A. '24) — Guiding the Next Generation Toward Their Future
For Jessica Watson, education has always been more than a career—it’s a calling rooted in family values, perseverance, and a deep belief in the power of opportunity. Growing up, her mother instilled in her and her sisters the importance of hard work and education, reminding them that “you can achieve anything if you work hard and use your mind.” Those lessons became the foundation for Jessica’s lifelong dedication to helping students reach their potential.
As a proud first-generation college graduate, Jessica understands firsthand the challenges of navigating higher education. From decoding financial aid letters to choosing the right classes, she remembers feeling overwhelmed as an undergraduate at an out-of-state university. Thankfully, she had a cousin who helped her adjust and find her place on campus—a gesture Jessica now pays forward every day as a Postsecondary Coordinator. “Throughout college, I was surrounded by people who believed in me,” she shared. “Their encouragement helped me stay motivated and earn my degree.”
Jessica’s path eventually led her to Governors State University, where she earned her Master of Arts in Educational Administration – Principal Leadership (M.A. ’24). She credits the program and her mentor, Dr. David Conrad, for preparing her to become the leader she is today. “Dr. Conrad was always responsive and genuinely invested in my success,” she said. “His guidance gave me the confidence to grow as a leader and make informed decisions that support students and staff.”
The hands-on experiences Jessica gained at GovState continue to guide her work. Completing her internship within her current school district gave her valuable insight into district operations and helped her develop initiatives still in use today—including a staff support program and comprehensive handbook implemented districtwide. “The program mirrored real-world responsibilities and gave me the tools I use every day,” she explained.
In her current role, Jessica oversees both the Fine Arts and Communications campus and the STEM campus, balancing the unique needs of students pursuing vastly different paths. “Every student has a unique journey,” she said. “Whether they plan to attend college, join the military, or pursue a trade, my goal is to help them find the path that best fits their goals.” Her favorite moments are the ones that remind her why she chose education—watching students light up as they receive college acceptance letters or scholarships. “In those moments, I get to be their biggest cheerleader,” she said proudly.
For Jessica, the most rewarding part of her work is witnessing transformation. “It’s fulfilling to build partnerships and create opportunities that help students turn their dreams into reality,” she shared. “There are no limits to what our students can achieve.”
To current GovState students and recent graduates pursuing careers in education or administration, Jessica offers heartfelt advice: “The world of education is waiting for you to share your ideas, your creativity, and your passion. If you can leave a school or a program better than it was when you started, then you’ve made a lasting impact.”
Looking ahead, Jessica remains committed to lifelong learning and growth. She plans to continue developing her leadership skills, exploring new educational trends, and fostering environments where students and educators thrive. Outside of work, she enjoys traveling, reading, and spending time with her family. “Each new place reminds me how much there is to learn from the world around us,” she said.
As a proud GovState alumna, Jessica stays connected to the university by encouraging her own students to explore what it offers. She organizes campus tours, attends theater performances, and invites GovState representatives to speak with students and parents. “Being part of the Jaguar community represents pride, perseverance, and the power of education to transform lives,” she said. “GovState played a key role in shaping who I am as an educator, and I’m honored to pay that forward.”
Author: Jocelyn Bell, Alumni Relations Communication Coordinator