Texas Border Business
The American Red Cross Texas Gulf Coast Region has named Carmen Watkins as its new Chief Executive Officer, bringing decades of leadership experience in community advocacy, nonprofit management, and disaster response.
“This role is the perfect alignment of my experience and passion for service, and I look forward to strengthening the Red Cross mission by mobilizing volunteers, supporting communities, and ensuring we are prepared when disasters strike,” said Watkins.
A respected community leader and longtime Houston resident, Watkins brings nearly 20 years of engagement with the Red Cross, including partnerships dating back to 2005 and multiple disaster deployments. She has played key roles in recovery efforts following major disasters such as Tropical Storm Allison and Hurricane Katrina, consistently advocating for equitable access to resources for impacted communities.
Watkins’ distinguished career spans leadership roles in civil rights organizations, nonprofit institutions, and civic engagement. She has held senior positions with the NAACP, the African American Chamber of Commerce of Greater Houston, the Houston Area Urban League, and national civic organizations. Her experience also includes work in media, higher education, and public affairs.
An accomplished leader and recognized advocate, Watkins holds degrees from Oberlin College, Prairie View A&M University and attended the Thurgood Marshall School of Law.
As CEO, Watkins will focus on advancing community preparedness, strengthening volunteer engagement, and supporting the staff who carry out the Red Cross mission across the Texas Gulf Coast. She emphasized the vital role volunteers play in disaster readiness and response throughout the region.
For more information about volunteering or supporting the American Red Cross, visit www.redcross.org.
Information source: American Red Cross Texas Gulf Coast Region
