(PHOENIX, Ariz., Sept. 28, 2004) - Phoenix College Financial Aid director, Genevieve Watson was recently appointed by Governor Janet Napolitano to serve as a member on the Arizona Statewide Youth Development Task Force. Watson was assigned to the Youth Workforce Development Policy Work Group in July.

According to a press release issued by the Governor's Office, the Task Force, "is designed to foster goals that will help youth become healthy and productive adults by developing attitudes, behaviors, and skills that enable them to succeed as parents, citizens and workers."

With her extensive background in education and commitment to youth, Watson's expertise proves to be an excellent fit for this selection.

Watson has built her entire career around education and serving youth. For the past eight years, she has served as the director of Financial Aid at Phoenix College. Before taking on this role, she was the interim associate Dean of students at the University of Arizona from 1989-1990 and associate, as well as assistant director of Student Financial Aid at the university from 1986-1995. Additionally, from 1974-1986 she served in various capacities at Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa.

"It was a surprise to learn my name had been nominated for a gubernatorial appointment," said Watson. "Having worked in higher education for 30 years, I continue to be passionate about helping provide access to postsecondary education and employment training for our youth. I am excited about the opportunity to help distribute information and encourage others to expand existing programs or develop new ones to prepare our youth to become positive contributors to the Arizona economy."

Her commitment to education and Arizona youth has generated a number of awards. Some include:

• 2004 Western Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators - Distinguished Service Award;
• 1999 Arizona Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators - Robert Thompson Memorial Leadership Award; and,
• 1995 University of Arizona Chicano/Hispano Student Affairs and Resource Center - Outstanding Staff Award.

Watson has a B.A. from Grambling College and a M.A.T. from Drake University.

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