Two seasoned Jackson State University employees officially have been appointed to lead Facilities and Construction Management (FCM).
Robert D. Watts is the new executive director, and La’Kitha B. Hughes is associate director.
Watts, a JSU alum and native of Jackson, has been in construction for more than 19 years and has worked at JSU for nearly five years. He’s a graduate of Lanier High School.
In his new role, Watts said he’ll continue work to “provide a safe, energy-efficient, clean and well-maintained environment contributing to the success of the faculty, students, staff and visitors.”
Since working with FCM, Watts has served as building inspector, director of Planning and Construction and interim director.
He is a member of the Association of Physical Plant Administrators (APPA) and the Southeastern Regional Association of Physical Plant Administrators (SRAPPA). Also, he’s studying to receive his credentials as a Certified Educational Facilities Professional (CEFP). It’s the highest standards of performance and knowledge in educational facilities management through APPA.
Hughes, a native of Grenada, has served JSU’s Department of Facilities of Construction Management for 13 years. She received her undergraduate and graduate degrees in Business Administration and Technology from Mississippi State University.
Hughes said she’s excited about her new role.
“I am thankful for the opportunity to continuously serve this great institution of higher learning and will continue to empower and embrace our FCM Team as we serve our students, faculty, and staff.”
During her tenure at JSU, Hughes previously served as work order clerk, assistant operations staff assistant, superintendent of administrative services and director of administrative Support/Budget Operations.
She was awarded FCM’s Manager of the Year for three consecutive years and earned FCM’s Outstanding Service Award for her “dedication, teamwork and cooperation.”
Hughes is also a member of APPA and SRAPPA.