Jon Watts: A Legacy of Leadership at the University of Nebraska at Kearney

KEARNEY – After more than a decade of dedicated service, Jon Watts is leaving his position at the University of Nebraska at Kearney (UNK) to embark on a new journey as the regional general manager for ALLO Communications, a Nebraska-based telecommunications company. His transition will take place on November 30, marking the end of an era for the university.

A Journey of Growth and Achievement

Jon Watts, a Kearney native, began his career at UNK in 2010 as the assistant director of business services. His commitment and expertise quickly propelled him through the ranks, leading to his promotion as director of business services and accounts payable in 2013. In June 2016, he took on the role of vice chancellor for business and finance, where he provided strategic direction and oversight for a wide array of university functions, including budgeting, accounting, financial reporting, compliance, and facilities maintenance.

During his tenure, Watts played a pivotal role in transforming the campus landscape. He was instrumental in delivering an impressive $290 million in construction, renovation, and expansion projects. Notable achievements include the development of new residence halls, a state-of-the-art 90,000-square-foot STEM building, and the Douglas A. Kristensen Rural Health Education Complex, which underscores UNK’s commitment to advancing healthcare education.

Building a Vibrant Community

One of Watts’ most significant contributions to UNK was his involvement in the development of University Village, a 104-acre site designed to foster educational, residential, commercial, and recreational opportunities. This innovative public-private partnership has created a vibrant neighborhood that bridges urban and rural Nebraska. Key components of University Village include the Regional Engagement Center, Element 30 housing project, Ernest Grundy Tennis Center, Plambeck Early Childhood Education Center, and UNK’s Village Flats apartments. Additionally, the Nebraska Medicine cancer center, set to open in December, will further enhance the community’s healthcare resources.

Commitment to Student Success

Watts’ impact extended beyond infrastructure; he was a staunch advocate for student success. Under his leadership, scholarship funding for UNK students saw significant increases, resulting in a notable decrease in the average debt incurred by students who complete their studies at the university. Since 2016, this average debt has dropped by $4,100, a testament to his commitment to making higher education more accessible and affordable.

Leadership and Recognition

Throughout his career at UNK, Watts was an active participant in numerous committees within the UNK and NU System. He is a proud graduate of the Leadership UNK, Leadership Kearney, and Leadership Nebraska programs, reflecting his dedication to community engagement and leadership development. His contributions have not gone unnoticed; he received the Kearney Area Chamber of Commerce Young Professional of the Year award in 2012 and the Distinguished Leadership Kearney Alumni Award in 2016.

Interim Chancellor Charlie Bicak praised Watts, stating, “Jon’s innovative and collaborative leadership style has led to tremendous success for our university during his time here. He has been a great partner and an incredible asset to UNK, and he will leave an indelible mark on the university.”

A Lasting Impact

While Watts is moving on to a new chapter in his career, he and his family will remain in Kearney, continuing their involvement in the community. He is actively engaged with organizations such as Buffalo County Community Partners, the Kearney Catholic High School Foundation, and the CHI Health Good Samaritan Foundation. His new office will be located in the Regional Engagement Center at University Village, ensuring that he remains connected to the university and the community he has served so diligently.

Transitioning Leadership

In light of Watts’ departure, Jane Sheldon, the associate vice chancellor for business and finance, will assume the additional responsibilities of chief business officer for UNK on an interim basis. Sheldon previously held this role after Barbara Johnson’s departure in 2016, bringing continuity to the leadership during this transition.

The UNK Division of Business and Finance, under Watts’ guidance, has managed the university’s financial operations to support academic excellence, fiscal responsibility, and public accountability. The vice chancellor for business and finance leads a dedicated team of nine full-time employees overseeing operations involving more than 250 full-time, part-time, and student employees.

Conclusion

Jon Watts’ departure from the University of Nebraska at Kearney marks the end of a significant chapter in the university’s history. His leadership, vision, and commitment to excellence have left an indelible mark on the institution, shaping its future and enhancing the educational experience for countless students. As he embarks on this new opportunity with ALLO Communications, the UNK community will undoubtedly remember his contributions and the legacy he leaves behind.