Sheila Watts

Background

About Sheila Watts

I am an experienced nonprofit and higher education leader with a strong record of building programs, guiding governance, and advancing organizational priorities. Over the past 15 years, I have worked at the intersection of education, the arts, and community engagement to support boards and executives, manage staff and volunteers, and design initiatives that expand access to learning and opportunity. My career spans roles as an Associate Dean at the University of the Arts, where I developed innovative graduate programs and student support structures, to governance leadership with the Philadelphia Orchestra and Kimmel Center, where I strengthened board operations and facilitated high-level strategic discussions. Currently, I serve as Director of Governance & Special Programs at AO North America, partnering with executive and board leaders to advance policy, strategy, and organizational growth. Across these roles, I bring: Expertise in program and operations management, from academic enrichment to large-scale institutional initiatives. Strength in board relations, communications, and governance. A collaborative, relationship-centered approach to building partnerships with families, faculty, students, trustees, and community organizations. At the heart of my work is a commitment to educational equity, creativity, and community impact. I thrive in mission-driven environments and enjoy shaping programs and structures that help organizations—and the people they serve—reach their fullest potential.