Merry M Watson is a seasoned educational leader with over 38 years of experience in educational leadership, academic advising, and counseling. Her exceptional ability to cultivate positive relationships extends to students, parents, colleagues, and community stakeholders.

As a proactive leader, Merry has a commendable record of developing impactful programs. Originally from the south side of Chicago, Merry attended Chicago Public Schools and later dedicated twenty-three years as a Professional School Counselor within the same system. She has also contributed significantly as an Educational Specialist, lecturer, and Academic Advisor at Chicago State University. Merry further served as a School Counselor at Southland College Prep, one of Chicago’s premier charter high schools in the south suburbs.

One of Merry’s notable achievements is creating an evidence-based educational program for justice-involved youth, Cafe Momentum Academy, successfully launched in August 2019. Since its inception, 52 youth have graduated with their high school diploma or equivalent. This program has garnered attention for its transformative impact on the lives of justice-involved youth.

Merry’s recent awards and accomplishments include being featured on Good Morning America, receiving the Innovation Award from WorkForce Solutions Dallas, and earning the Home Town Hero Award from WFAA Dallas TV Station. She was also prominently featured in Cafe Momentum’s documentary “Building Momentum.” Notably, Merry achieved the highest number of graduates from the educational program in a single year, even during the challenging times of the pandemic. She also received the Oppenheimer Counselor Recognition Award while working at Chicago Public School.

Merry graduated from Eastern Illinois University and has three adult children. Beyond he professional pursuits, she finds joy in Chicago-style stepping, participating in a book club, fostering spiritual development, and indulging in the art of baking. As a proud member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, Merry continues to contribute significantly to the realms of education and community development.