Support the Watson 100 Campaign
The John S. Watson Institute for Urban Policy and Research celebrates the legacy of pioneering New Jersey Assemblyman John S. Watson. The institute comprises integrated policy centers and initiates that support informed public policy while serving as a vital, non-partisan resource for New Jersey decision-makers, supporting the development and implementation of real-world solutions.
John S. Watson was an African-American Democratic Party politician who served six terms in the New Jersey General Assembly, representing the 15th Legislative District. Born in Camden, NJ, Watson served with the U.S. Merchant Marine fleet during World War II. In 1970, Watson became the first African-American elected to the Mercer County Board of Chosen Freeholders, and in 1977, he was appointed Board Chairperson. For 12 years, he was a member of the New Jersey State Assembly, serving as Chairman of the Assembly Appropriations Committee.
Join us in commemorating John S. Watson’s 100th birthday (August 14, 1924-June 15, 1996) by making a gift to support the John S. Watson Institute for Urban Policy and Research. Your donation will help advance the work of the Institute, supporting the vital projects of the Center for Urban Policy Research, Center for the Positive Development of Urban Children, Center for the Urban Environment, Center for Health Policy Development, Center for Economic and Workforce Development, Social Entrepreneurship and Innovation and the NJ Urban Mayors Policy Center.