San Diego City Wire

Senate Minority Leader Brian W. Jones of San Diego has recognized Maggie T. Watkins as the 2025 "Woman of the Year" for Senate District 40. This honor highlights Watkins' significant contributions to philanthropy and community service in East County and beyond.

"Maggie's unwavering dedication to philanthropy and community service has left a lasting impact on East County and beyond," stated Leader Jones. "From her leadership roles on numerous nonprofit boards to her extensive work supporting vital community initiatives, Maggie's commitment to service is truly inspiring. Congratulations to Maggie for her outstanding contributions to our district."

Watkins has been instrumental in enhancing the philanthropic landscape of San Diego’s East County, notably through her involvement with the Alpine Community Center Board during its fundraising campaign and by chairing multiple annual holiday galas. Her current roles include serving on the Sharp Grossmont Hospital Foundation Board, where she chairs both the annual Hospice Regatta and the hospital’s annual gala, as well as participating in the Asset and Trust Committee and Finance Committee. She also holds positions within Sharp HealthCare Foundation, sitting on its Executive Committee and leading the Stewardship Committee.

Additionally, Watkins is involved with the Salvation Army Metropolitan Advisory Board as Chair of the Nominating Committee. She was previously honored as a Salvation Army Woman of Dedication and chaired their annual fundraising event. Her commitment extends to being part of the Girl Scouts San Diego Board Development Committee.

Over her career, Watkins has served on more than 40 nonprofit boards in various leadership capacities. Her efforts were recently acknowledged when she received a Lifetime Achievement Award for nonprofit service from the Corporate Directors Forum, following recognition by the San Diego Business Journal as one of San Diego's 500 Most Influential People in 2024.

In addition to her volunteer work, Watkins has had a distinguished professional career as Chief Marketing Officer for several large law firms and CEO of a global law firm association. Currently leading her own consultancy firm, she aids law firms in developing marketing strategies while mentoring young professionals.

“I am truly honored to receive this recognition from Senator Jones,” said Maggie T. Watkins upon receiving this accolade. “Serving our community has been a lifelong passion, and I am grateful for the opportunity to work alongside so many dedicated individuals who are committed to making a difference.”

The Legislative Women’s Caucus initiated this recognition tradition since 1987 during March's "Women’s History Month," encouraging legislators annually to honor remarkable women within their districts.