Watson Receives NYCCT Bushnell Memorial Award

NEWBURGH – Former SUNY Orange Trustee Frederick A. Watson was presented with the 2025 New York Community College Trustees (NYCCT) Anne M. Bushnell Memorial Award for Special Achievement at NYCCT’s annual conference this past Friday, Sept. 12 in Saratoga Springs, N.Y.

The Bushnell Award is the highest accolade that NYCCT awards to a trustee. It recognizes extraordinary leadership and achievement to the trustee’s local college or the community college system.

Watson served on the SUNY Orange Board of Trustees from January 2014 until retiring in June 2024. He held the role of Board secretary for two years (2014-15 and 2015-16) before serving as Board chair for three years (2018-19 through 2020-21). During his tenure as Board chair, the College, among its many successes, developed its Strategic Plan 2020-2025; established Orange County FoodTEC to invigorate the region’s growing food, beverage and hospitality industries; cemented partnerships with respected four-year academic institutions to enhance opportunities for SUNY Orange students; and successfully emerged from a global pandemic with Watson’s steady leadership.

He also sought to bring greater visibility, support and funding to the State University of New York’s 30 community colleges by serving as Treasurer of the NYCCT Board, advocating statewide and nationally to improve access to higher education and enhance community college operations.

Watson exemplified excellence in trusteeship through his unwavering commitment to SUNY Orange’s mission and his distinguished service to the Board. A dedicated advocate for educational access and equity, he brought integrity, thoughtfulness, and a community-centered perspective to every board discussion.

In addition, his nomination packet included the following passage, “Under his leadership, the Board successfully supported a presidential transition, advocated for campus capital improvements, and strengthened relationships with Orange County government officials and the SUNY system. He was known for his steady presence and his willingness to devote significant time and energy to committee work, public meetings, and campus events.

Watson’s background in public service and community development also informed his values-driven approach to governance, making him not only a dependable leader but also a trusted voice for inclusive policy development and strategic planning. His legacy as a trustee is defined by a deep respect for the College, a belief in transformative education, and a leadership style grounded in humility and collaboration.”