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John Watson
2021 Distinguished Alumnus – College of Education
John Watson is a double graduate of Southeastern, obtaining a Bachelor of Science
degree in Health, Safety, Physical Education and Coaching in 1982 and his Master of
Education Administration and Supervision in 1992. He was offered an athletic scholarship
to play basketball at Southeastern, and was the first men’s basketball signee as the
school transitioned to a Division 1 team.
Upon graduation, John began working in the Livingston Parish school system, first
as a teacher and coach at Denham Springs High School, then rising through the ranks
with positions of Assistant Principal, Principal, Supervisor of Child Welfare and
Attendance, Supervisor of Personnel, Assistant Superintendent, and finally, Superintendent.
While in Superintendent position, John worked with former president Dr. John Crain
and the College of Education to continue the strong relationship that Southeastern
and Livingston Parish school system have enjoyed for many years, through the teacher
preparation program and the cooperative efforts of both institutions at the Livingston
Parish Literacy and Technology Center in Walker. He also worked with Dr. William Wainwright
to secure the donation of property for the construction of the Northshore Technical
Community College campus in Walker.
Now retired after 35 years, John has been volunteering with the Walker Baptist Church
Food Pantry and has organized the Walker High School Athletic Hall of Fame. He is
married to the former Belinda Stafford, also a two-time alumnus, and they have two
daughters, two sons-in-law, one granddaughter and two grandchildren on the way.