Chairman of the Board of Trustees Remembered as a Visionary Leader and Dedicated Servant

The Alabama A&M University community gathered Friday morning to celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Roderick Dewayne Watts, Chairman of the Board of Trustees. The memorial service, attended by members of the Board of Trustees, Executive Cabinet, students, faculty, and staff, paid tribute to Watts' remarkable leadership and unwavering commitment to the University.

Dr. Watts, who served on the Board of Trustees for eight years, including the last two as Chairman, passed away earlier this month after a prolonged illness. President Daniel K. Wims officiated the heartfelt ceremony, honoring a leader who profoundly impacted the University and its community.

His wife, Mrs. Gloria Watts, and their son, Christopher, were among those present, joined by family, friends, and colleagues who shared reflections on his life of service.

A Life of Grace, Commitment, and Leadership

Pastor Troy Garner of Fellowship of Faith Church in Huntsville opened the service with a moving prayer, setting the tone for a ceremony filled with heartfelt tributes. The Alabama A&M University Choir delivered beautiful renditions of “It Is Well” and “His Eye is on the Sparrow,” capturing the reverence of the occasion.

Vice President Pro Tempore of the Board of Trustees, Kevin Ball, reflected on Watts' grace, service, and unwavering dedication.

“How do we reflect on Trustee Watts," Ball asked. "The first things that come to mind are questions: What does grace look like? When is the last time you witnessed a servant at his best? What image best represents commitment? Those are the things that define Wayne. He was a man of the people, always listening, always making time for others.”

Ball recounted how Watts had the unique ability to make everyone feel welcomed. “I do have to admit something,” he also made you feel important,” said Ball. “He did with me, that’s why I liked to hang with him, because I felt like I was somebody when I was with Wayne. That’s the effect he had on people and that’s why people were drawn to him.”

Ball also explained Watts’ commitment to connecting people and resources for the betterment of the University, and added his love for family was unmatched. “When we saw Wayne, y’all know what I’m about to say, we saw Gloria,” said Ball. “The time that both of them spent here in Huntsville and here on this campus supporting the mission, supporting the cause. Trustee Watts led a purpose-driven life.”

Personal Tributes and Lasting Influence

Several trustees and University leaders shared personal anecdotes that underscored Watts' character and lasting influence. 

Attorney and Trustee Tiffany Johnson Cole shared a deeply personal reflection. “When I joined this Board, Dr. Watts was the first person to truly embrace me,” she said. “Over the last six years, he became like a big brother. We talked three or four times a week. Gloria and Chris, thank you for sharing him with not just A&M, but with me.”

Trustee Dr. Jeanette Jones, Faculty Senate President and University Distinguished Professor, presented a Citation of Commendation from the AAMU faculty. She described Watts as “an extraordinary leader, a kind man willing to work with everyone.” She recalled her last moment with him during the December commencement. “He turned around, his face glowing, his eyes clear, and he gave me that famous 100-watt smile.”

A Lasting Legacy

Vice President of Academic Affairs, Dr. John Jones, read a resolution honoring Watts as “a dedicated and empowered leader, a champion of education, a change agent, and a man of unwavering commitment to A&M.” Watts' professional journey included degrees in biology and chemistry from Tuskegee University and studies at the Trinity School of Natural Health and Loomis Institute of Digestive Health. He was a respected author, a licensed pilot, a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, and a former board member of the Gadsden City Board of Education.

President Wims shared his thoughts in his closing remarks.

“No amount of experience prepares you for losing a leader like Dr. Watts,” Wims reflected. “But what we can do is honor his legacy by carrying forward his vision and commitment to Alabama A&M University. This homegoing celebration program, the resolution and the commendation from the faculty senate will rest in the archives at Alabama Agricultural and Mechanical University for as long as it exists.”  

Per the request of the family, in lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Dr. Roderick Dewayne Watts Memorial Scholarship.

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