Yocum Institute for Arts Education has announced the appointment of Benjamin Delp Watts, Pd. D. to newly created role of Director of Development.
Watts will be responsible for strategically planning for the future of the Yocum Institute. He will look to foster, create, and maintain our relationships with families, our teachers, staff, colleagues, volunteers, supporters, and donors.
“Since relocating to Penn Avenue, the Yocum Institute has grown and changed tremendously. Ben has been involved with the Yocum Institute and the greater arts community for many years and understands the impact of the arts on social, emotional, and academic development. He will be a tremendous asset to our mission.” remarked Susan Rohn, Executive Director.
Trained as a professional opera singer, Watts has performed from Austria to Austin, Texas; and in Reading, from Albright College to Alvernia. Ben received a Bachelor of Arts degree in German, Music, and Theatre and Dramatic Literature from Albright College in 1998; and a Master of Music in Vocal Performance from The University of Texas (UT) at Austin in 2001.
After graduating from UT Austin, Ben had the privilege and honor of studying under internationally renowned opera star, Gilda Cruz-Romo, for ten years. During that time, he became fluent in Italian.
Upon moving back to the Reading area in 2013, Ben performed as Jack in Jack and the Beanstalk at the Yocum Institute in 2014. From there, he began to serve his community by serving on various boards in the arts and human services. In 2020, Watts earned a Ph.D. in Leadership Studies with an emphasis on Cooperate Leadership from Alvernia University.
