PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Timeline
HONORS & AWARDS

Stephanie Watson

State of Tennessee
Nashville Metropolitan Area,TN
1
Certification
11
years of professional experience

Accomplished public servant, disability advocate, and traffic safety professional with more than a decade of experience in state government, criminal justice, public administration, victim services, and community engagement. Proven leader in developing and implementing statewide programs, managing stakeholder relationships, facilitating training initiatives, and advancing policies that improve public safety, accessibility, and quality of life for Tennesseans. Recognized statewide for advocacy efforts supporting individuals with disabilities, crime victims, and roadway safety initiatives. Passionate about creating inclusive communities through education, collaboration, and evidence-based solutions. Skilled in program management, public speaking, policy development, strategic planning, training facilitation, and stakeholder engagement. Currently serves on the Tennessee Developmental Disabilities Planning and Policy Council (DDPPC) and the Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) Tennessee Board of Directors, where she helps shape initiatives that promote disability inclusion, victim advocacy, and public safety.

Experienced leader with strong background in guiding teams, managing complex projects, and achieving strategic objectives. Excels in developing efficient processes, ensuring high standards, and aligning efforts with organizational goals. Known for collaborative approach and commitment to excellence.

Work History

Program Manager, Tennessee Highway Safety Office

2 Years 11 Months
State of Tennessee | 07.2023 - Current
  • Lead statewide traffic safety initiatives and programs designed to reduce roadway fatalities and serious injuries.
  • Manage project planning, implementation, evaluation, budgeting, and stakeholder engagement.
  • Coordinate multiple programs and partnerships supporting Tennessee's strategic highway safety goals.
  • Develop performance measures and oversee program compliance with state and federal requirements.
  • Build collaborative relationships with law enforcement agencies, community organizations, and public safety partners.

Training Officer 2

3 Years 8 Months
State of Tennessee | 11.2019 - 07.2023
  • Developed and facilitated agency-wide training programs and workforce development initiatives.
  • Conducted training needs assessments and evaluated program effectiveness through data analysis and participant feedback.
  • Managed training records, schedules, compliance reporting, and conference coordination.

Hearings Officer

1 Year 6 Months
State of Tennessee | 05.2018 - 11.2019
  • Conducted parole hearing functions supporting the Tennessee Board of Parole.
  • Reviewed case information and ensured compliance with statutory requirements.

Probation and Parole Officer III

1 Year 2 Months
State of Tennessee | 03.2017 - 05.2018
  • Supervised high-risk offenders under Community Supervision for Life.
  • Investigated violations of Tennessee Sex Offender Registry laws and testified in criminal proceedings.

Probation and Parole Officer II

1 Year 1 Month
State of Tennessee | 02.2016 - 03.2017
  • Collaborated with state and federal law enforcement agencies to ensure public safety and offender accountability.

Docket Technician III

6 Months
State of Tennessee | 08.2015 - 02.2016

Education

Master of Public Administration (MPA)

Cumberland University | 01-2019

Bachelor of Science - Criminal Justice, Homeland Security, Social Work

Austin Peay State University | 01-2010

Skills

Program Management
Public Administration
Disability Advocacy
Victim Services
Public Speaking
Community Outreach
Policy Development
Training & Workforce Development
Criminal Justice
Accessibility & ADA Compliance
Grant & Project Management
Problem-solving
Detail-oriented
Work Planning and Prioritization

Certification

  • ADA Coordinator Training Certification Program
  • Foundations of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
  • How to Facilitate Certification Program
  • The Three Pillars of Human Resources
  • Communicating with Emotional Intelligence
  • Icebreakers for Teams, Meetings, and Groups
  • Certificate of Completion – Internship Program

Timeline

Program Manager, Tennessee Highway Safety Office

State of Tennessee
07.2023 - CurrentRead More

Training Officer 2

State of Tennessee
11.2019 - 07.2023Read More

Hearings Officer

State of Tennessee
05.2018 - 11.2019Read More

Probation and Parole Officer III

State of Tennessee
03.2017 - 05.2018Read More

Probation and Parole Officer II

State of Tennessee
02.2016 - 03.2017Read More

Docket Technician III

State of Tennessee
08.2015 - 02.2016Read More

Austin Peay State University

Bachelor of Science from Criminal Justice, Homeland Security, Social Work
Read More

Cumberland University

Master of Public Administration (MPA)
Read More

HONORS & AWARDS

2024 Rising Advocate Award Tennessee Human Rights Commission Recognized for outstanding leadership and advocacy advancing disability rights, inclusion, and equal opportunity throughout Tennessee., 2023 Tennessee Mother of the Year Honored for exceptional community service, advocacy, leadership, and dedication to improving the lives of individuals and families across Tennessee., 2022 Voice for Victims Award Recognized for extraordinary commitment to victim advocacy, public awareness, and support services for victims and their families.
Stephanie Watson