Council Bluffs Schools Foundation Announces Bridgette Watson as New Executive Director

[Council Bluffs, Iowa, February 20, 2024] – The Council Bluffs Schools Foundation Board of Directors is proud to announce the appointment of Bridgette Watson as its new Executive Director. With a track record of dedication and success within the Foundation, Watson brings a wealth of experience and a strong commitment to our community and the Council Bluffs Community School District.

“Having served as the Foundation's Director of Development for the past five years, Bridgette has demonstrated exceptional leadership, strategic vision, and an ability to make meaningful connections within our community,” said Erin Johnson, Chair of the Council Bluffs Schools Foundation Board of Directors. “Her efforts have enhanced the Foundation's capacity to support educational initiatives and programs within the school district.”

Watson’s extensive ties to the Council Bluffs community, coupled with her first-hand experience with the Council Bluffs Community Schools, where she attended school and currently has three children enrolled, distinctly qualify her to comprehend and be a strong partner in serving students, families, and staff members.

"We are thrilled to announce Bridgette Watson as our new Executive Director," said Johnson, "Bridgette's proven leadership and passion for our community make her the ideal candidate to lead the Foundation into its next chapter of growth and impact. We are confident that under her guidance, the Foundation will continue to make a lasting difference throughout our school district."

"I am deeply honored and excited to assume the role of Executive Director at the Council Bluffs Schools Foundation," said Watson. "Having been a part of this incredible organization for the past five years, I am aware of the vital role it plays in supporting our schools and shaping the future of our community. I look forward to collaborating with our dedicated team and partners to build upon our successes and ensure that all students, families, and staff have the resources and support they need to thrive."

The Council Bluffs Schools Foundation is poised to embark on a new era of innovation and impact as Bridgette Watson transitions into her new role. Her accomplishments serve as a testament to her ability to lead with vision, integrity, and a steadfast commitment to working in partnership with Superintendent Dr. Vickie Murillo to serve the children, families, and staff of the school district.

“Bridgette has been instrumental in so many of the successful events the Foundation sponsors, such as the Education is Everyone's Business luncheon, the district staff fair at the beginning of the school year, the golf outing, and the annual Cheers for CB Schools on the 100 Block,” Dr. Murillo said. “As a proud graduate of the CB Schools, Bridgette has also helped us grow our Alumni & Friends Network, which is an important part of our connection to the community. I look forward to working closely with her, and to building on the success of the Foundation's efforts to support our district staff, programs, and priorities.”

Watson holds a master’s in Managerial Communication and bachelor’s in Public Relations. Prior to her tenure at the Council Bluffs Schools Foundation, she was part of the student success staff at Iowa Western, including the role as Associate Dean. She is an active volunteer in the community, serving on the City Planning Commission, the Friends of Children’s Square Board of Directors, the Council Bluffs Guild of the Omaha Symphony Board, and Council Bluffs Ambassadors.

Watson was recognized by the Midlands Business Journal in the 2023 “40 Under 40” Award program for her significant impact on the community. The Council Bluffs Schools Foundation’s mission is to provide financial resources and support to benefit the children, families, and staff of the Council Bluffs Community School District.

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Media Contacts: Bridgette Watson, bwatson@cbsf.org, 712-322-8800 and Erin Johnson, 402-934-1033 ejohnson@habitatomaha.org