Jessica Shepard Watts, Ph.D.

Jessica serves as the Chief Partnerships Officer at The Dallas Foundation, a role she has held since 2024. Leading the Philanthropic Partnerships team, Jessica serves as a cornerstone of the Foundation’s external outreach, directing efforts with current and prospective donor partners, professional advisors, and key stakeholders. Her mission is to cultivate a thriving and opportunity-rich community in greater Dallas.

With a distinguished career spanning 18 years in development and external affairs across the nonprofit, education, and corporate domains, Jessica brings a wealth of expertise to her role. Her track record as an authentic relationship builder and results-oriented leader is evident from her tenure at esteemed organizations such as Axxess, the University of North Texas, The University of Texas at Dallas, and United Way of Metropolitan Dallas.

Jessica holds a Ph.D. and Master’s Degree in Public Affairs from The University of Texas at Dallas, and a BA in Political Science from The University of Texas-Arlington, where she also excelled as a Division I Tennis player. Her academic achievements and athletic prowess underscore her dedication to excellence in all pursuits. Jessica enjoys exploring new destinations alongside her husband and three children. In her spare moments, she finds solace in the tranquility of a tennis court or the lush greens of a golf course, cherishing those fleeting moments of serenity amidst the joyful chaos of family life.