It was an evening charged with admiration, gratitude, and deep respect as Community Ventures gathered to recognize the extraordinary leadership and impact of John Watz. In a room filled with colleagues, friends, and those whose lives have been touched by his work, John was presented with the inaugural John Watz Lifetime Achievement Award—a distinction created in his honor to recognize individuals whose dedication, commitment, and service set a standard of excellence.
For 33 years, John Watz has served as the Chairman of the Board at Community Ventures, a tenure marked by wisdom, humility, and an unwavering focus on the people CV serves.
It was only fitting that on this night, the organization would celebrate his legacy by establishing an award that will carry his name into the future.
A Legacy of Leadership and Service
As CEO Kevin Smith took the stage to introduce the award, he painted a vivid picture of the man behind the legacy.
“There are very few people that you cross paths with in a lifetime that are extraordinary and don’t realize it,” Smith began. “John Watz is one of those.”
Smith spoke of John’s unique ability to lead with reason, respect, and intelligence, qualities that have been instrumental in shaping the success of Community Ventures over the decades.
He shared the two fundamental questions that John asks whenever a new initiative is proposed:
- Is it good for the people we serve?
- What risk does it pose for CV?
“These questions ring in my ears every time we propose something new,” Smith reflected. “His voice is a guide to us on a daily basis.”
John’s ability to bring people together, foster consensus, and ensure that every voice is heard has been the cornerstone of his leadership. “This is his superpower,” Smith emphasized. “And I really don’t think he even realizes how valuable that skill is in the world we operate in.”
A Defining Moment: Standing by Leadership
One of the most defining moments of John’s tenure came four years ago when an external consultant suggested that Community Ventures should rotate its board chair position every three years. The implication was clear—if John didn’t step down, Community Ventures could lose significant funding.
Smith recalled the moment vividly. “I quickly told the consultant that they were no longer welcome at CV and told the funder they could keep their money—John Watz was not going anywhere.”
The audience erupted in applause, understanding the gravity of the decision. That defining stand spoke volumes about the value John brought to the organization. When the funders returned for another assessment, Smith made it clear: John’s leadership was not up for discussion.
The subject was never brought up again.
“In my nearly 40 years of work in the nonprofit world, I have seen organizations destroyed by ego-driven or lazy board chairs,” Smith continued. “John is neither of those. He has shepherded this organization for 33 years with very little drama—and that is no small feat.”
A Moment to Remember
As Smith officially announced John Watz as the first recipient of the award named in his honor, applause filled the room, a collective acknowledgment of a leader who had given so much selflessly.
With characteristic humility, John stepped forward to accept the award, visibly moved by the recognition. Those who know him best could tell—while he deeply appreciated the honor.
The moment captured the warmth, camaraderie, and deep respect that have defined his decades of leadership.
The Beginning of a New Tradition
The John Watz Lifetime Achievement Award will now be an annual recognition, ensuring that John’s legacy continues to inspire future leaders. It will serve as a reminder of the impact that selfless dedication and visionary leadership can have on a community.
As the evening came to a close, one thing was clear: John Watz’s influence on Community Ventures cannot be measured in years or awards—it is etched into the very foundation of the organization.
John, thank you for everything. Your legacy of excellence will continue to guide us for years to come.
