Marquis Who's Who Millennium Magazine

409 A Marquis Who's Who Magazine T o be successful in academia like Rollin J. Watson, one must be multifaceted, hardworking and dedicated to ensuring that educational systems run efficiently. Dr. Watson obtained a Ph.D. in American studies at the University of Maryland and an honorary Doctor of Public Administration from Union College, with his educational background being a contributing factor in his success. He began his administrative career as an associate dean, division chairman, dean and vice president of Hiwassee College from 1984 to 1989. While in those positions, he gained the skills necessary to execute the job of president of Somerset Community College from 1989 to 1999. After working hard to maintain the functionality of the university, he served as a tenured associate professor, a position he held from 1999 until his retirement in 2013. In addition to his academic career, Dr. Watson has maintained several other leadership positions, including being on the library board at the University of Kentucky from 1996 to 2007 and serving as a consultant for Safe Schools America. Dr. Watson took an interest in local government and writing growing up. He later took that passion and penned an academic book titled “The School as a Safe Haven,” and a self-help book titled “Spending a Lifetime: Careers of City Managers.” He has received many accolades during his academic tenure, including a citation from the University of Kentucky, a state senate citation from the Commonwealth of Kentucky in 1999, and fellowship at the University of Kentucky and the University of Maryland. Dr. Watson stays abreast of changes in his field as a member of the American Studies Association and the American Historical Association. Although retired, he has not stopped being involved in education, as he is currently doing consulting and administrative work for local schools. Rollin J. Watson, Ph.D. Academic Administrator, Educator,Writer Somerset Community College Somerset, KY