January 21, 2009

Watson honored during retirement party

The stories and tears were flowing Tuesday in Cowley College’s Earle N. Wright Community Room as family, friends, and co-workers gathered to honor Bruce Watson at his retirement party.
Watson served as Cowley College’s coordinator athletic/community/minority counselor. He also was a sponsor of the Adopt-A-Player program and the Black Student Union during his 15 years of employment.

He has long running ties with Cowley College as he was a student at the school and served as the football team manager.

He is an avid supporter of all Tiger athletics and has been a fixture at Cowley softball and basketball games. He has also served as a mentor, advisor, and friend to numerous student-athletes.
Watson was named the recipient of the Conrad and Janet Jimison Tiger Booster of the Year last April.

Tom Saia, Cowley athletic director, and Sue Saia, Cowley vice president of student affairs, have been close friends with Watson and are extremely grateful for his contributions to the college.
“When I think of Cowley athletics we are successful because of Bruce Watson,” Tom Saia said. “When I wanted something done I called Bruce, he was always there for me, student-athletes, students, anyone.”

Cowley College president Dr. Patrick J. McAtee expressed his gratitude as well.
“Nobody really knows how much Bruce has helped change the lives of students,” McAtee said. “It has made a real difference in our college and we will miss that. You have made this place so much better. It’s rare that a president has a true friend like you.”

Known as an ambassador for Cowley College and the Arkansas City community, Watson was recently named a co-recipient of the first Arkansas City Human Relations Award.

Several friends and co-workers spoke at the reception, sharing their appreciation for Watson.

Arkansas City Police Chief, Sean Wallace, presented Watson with a card and gifts from the ACPD. Bryce Roderick, Kansas Jayhawk Community College Conference Commissioner, presented Watson with a lifetime pass for himself and a guest to attend all Jayhawk Conference/Region VI sporting events.

The College’s athletic department gave Watson a large stone with the Tiger logo and his name engraved on it, while the College’s administrative team gave him a large set of tools.
Robert Rogers of Great Western Dining also provided Watson with a gift.

Many at the college will miss Watson, and he will miss the college as well.

“I would tell my wife I get a check for doing what I love,” Watson said.