A native Houstonian, Watkins has been working in Houston’s vibrant cultural sector for more than 15 years, and possesses a passion to connect the community’s diverse audiences through the arts. She holds a bachelor’s degree in English from Texas A&M University and an MBA from Rice University.
Most recently, Watkins served as the Houston Symphony’s Chief Marketing & External Relations Officer from 2019 to 2024. During her time with the Houston Symphony, Watkins spearheaded transformation within the marketing department. By fostering a culture of experimentation and data-driven decision making, the department evolved into a cohesive, forward-looking and “digital first” team. Notably, in 2022, she negotiated an entirely pro bono collaboration with a prestigious design agency to execute a rebrand of the organization’s visual identity which garnered national recognition. Under her leadership, Watkins also secured a pro bono project with Boston Consulting Group to develop a robust revenue growth plan that would grow ticketing revenue from pre-COVID levels by 35% over four years, already surpassing year one and two projections. In addition, Watkins was entrusted to take on management of the expansive community engagement and educational activities of the organization, joining this work with the audience development efforts underway within the marketing department.