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Stepping up from his role as associate director at PI, he replaces retired CEO Debra Marsteller. In 2007, after 26 years leading former Vantage Foundation and building the first integrated work supports system for people with the most complex lives, Marsteller joined with Watson in conducting a successful merger with Project Independence that seamlessly blended the two programs into one, keeping the focus on those served while promoting independence and choice. While serving as associate director at Project Independence, Watson has also been a member of the Regional Center of Orange County (RCOC) Board of Directors. He has chaired the RCOC’s Behavior Programs on the Vendor Advisory Committee (VAC). During his time on the Board, he testified before a legislative subcommittee advocating for rights of individuals. Watson joined Vantage in 1994 as a job coach while attending graduate school at Cal State Fullerton. He quickly rose to area manager, then regional director where he was responsible for growing the partially site-based day program. He was instrumental in transitioning Vantage Foundation into a totally community-based program with an emphasis on employment for individuals with developmental disabilities.
