Teaching Leadership

The Springfield College community is grateful for alumni like Pete Watson ’79, G’80. He gives annually to the College, and he and his wife, Linda, have endowed a scholarship in honor of his father.

He is also generous in sharing his time and talent. While leading a company that employs nearly 13,000 people in 50 countries, he takes time to come back to campus and interact with students.

“Talking with students about their career aspirations and helping them on the path to realize those dreams is something I really enjoy. It’s one of the ways I give back to Springfield College,” he said.

Watson recently returned to Springfield College and shared his experiences with numerous students and faculty. Watson, a former football player at Springfield College, is president and CEO of Greif, Inc., a world leader in industrial packaging products and services based in Delaware, Ohio.

“I'm thankful to have alumni like Peter come back to campus, as it’s important for our student-athletes to hear from those who have taken advantage of opportunities and made the most of their experiences,” said Craig Poisson, G’90, DPE’99, director of athletics.

During his visit, Watson gave a 30-minute presentation on leadership to a group of student-athletes and specifically visited with the football and women’s lacrosse teams.

“Pete has spoken to our team on several occasions and each time we take away a new life lesson that our players can use. We appreciate all of his efforts in helping us reach our goals individually and as a team,” said Mike Cerasuolo ’93, head football coach.

Additionally, Watson gave a talk on leadership in Professor Brenda Cannings’s financial management class and spent one-on-one time with students conducting mock interviews, reviewing resumes, and offering career advice.

“During my interaction with the student-athletes, I wanted them to understand and learn that being part of a team environment at Springfield College is going to positively shape and transform their lives. This experience teaches leadership, discipline, caring for others, and accountability. These learnings have helped me in my career and will create a strong foundation in their future lives,” Watson said.

Participating in Springfield College Athletics has always offered a great opportunity for student-athletes to build leadership skills. Former student-athletes like Watson are great examples of how those skills can shape one’s career and character.