Boardwalk Buddy Walk announces new executive director

The Boardwalk Buddy Walk Fund board of directors recently announced that board member James Watson has accepted the position of executive director.

A Delaware native, Watson resides in Lewes with his wife Cheryl and their son Connor, who has Down syndrome. During his 30-year career, Watson has served as an administrative director for Riddle Health System, vice president of support services for Nanticoke Health Services, and senior director for TidalHealth. During this time, he brought Project Search, a nationally known internship program for individuals with disabilities, to TidalHealth Nanticoke.

Watson is a member of the National Down Syndrome Congress, the National Down Syndrome Society and the Down Syndrome Association of Delaware. He has been involved with Special Olympics as a sports director, coach and mentor for the past 15 years. He is a U.S. Air Force veteran and served for 23 years in the Delaware Air National Guard.

Dennis Diehl, Boardwalk Buddy Walk Fund chair, wrote, “Jim Watson is a dedicated parent and advocate for our cause. We are excited about the energy and experience he brings to our organization. Supporting our mission of raising awareness, Jim’s expertise and leadership will allow us to promote community involvement and encourage lifetime opportunities for people with Down syndrome.”