Denise Watkins

Ms. Watkins worked as a software system engineer and manager for 18 years in the telecommunications field, developing network management and control systems for satellite and wireless communications. After retiring from industry, Ms. Watkins started getting involved in the local community. She currently serves as the Immediate Past Chair on the UC Merced Foundation Board. UC Merced is the newest research University in the University of California education system. Over 70% of the students at Merced are first in their families to go to college. Additionally, Ms. Watkins owned and operated the Vancouver Stealth for 11 years, a professional Lacrosse team that played in Langley BC. Prior to the Stealth, Ms. Watkins owned and operated Primal Quest, an expedition adventure race that operated in North America. Ms. Watkins has been involved in several charities and notably co-founded the Pleasanton Schools Educational Enrichment Foundation, a non-profit corporation which supports arts, science and other enrichment learning programs that benefit all Pleasanton Unified School District students. She led the organization as its President for 13 years. Ms. Watkins has served on numerous committees for the Pleasanton School District, including co-chairing the district-wide Excellence Committee. Ms Watkins has 3 grown children.