Public Sector Honorees

PUBLIC SECTOR HONOREE

Beverly J. Watts Director, Wayne County Department of Public of Services

Beverly is the Director of the Wayne County Department of Public of Services (DPS), the largest county road agency in the state of Michigan. Beverly began her career in Wayne County in 2003 as Assistant Division Director of the Parks Division of DPS, moving up to Director the following year and then appointed to Deputy Director of the entire Department in 2012. In 2016, Watts became Wayne County’s first female Director of DPS. In addition to aligning the department’s mission and vision with the goals set forth by the County Executive, she is responsible for developing strategic plans for each of the department’s six divisions, totaling over 600 employees with an annual budget exceeding $300 million and total assets estimated at $1 billion. In 2018, Wayne County DPS was awarded full accreditation by the American Public Works Association (APWA) for their improved processes and procedures, making them the first county in Michigan to receive this honor. In addition, Watts has implemented policies that emphasize equity, diversity, racial and gender equality, and inclusion. For example, Watts has built a diverse team of decision-makers for various departmental processes, including recruitment, divisional oversight, and procurement practices. Watts is a proud native Detroiter and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Telecommunications from Michigan State University. She serves on the Board of the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy, which has transformed the Detroit Riverfront into a sought-after destination, keeping it “a beautiful, clean and safe gathering place for all.” She is a proud member of the COMTO Michigan Chapter. In 2019, Watts received the “Pioneer Award for Public Agency Executive of the Year” and sits on the COMTO Industry Awards Committee. In addition, Watts serves as a member of the National Organization of Black County Officials, American Public Works Association, Wayne County Economic and Development Corporation, Wayne County Brownfield Redevelopment Authority Board and currently represents the county as an appointed member of the Wayne County Drainage Board, and most recently appointed to the Michigan Infrastructure Council. Ms. Watts is a lifetime member of the Detroit Branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People and currently serves as President of the Harbor town One Condominium Association. Also, she was honored as a recipient of the Michigan Chronicle’s “Woman of Excellence” and “Who’s Who” awards. In 2019, Watts became an alumnus of the Harvard Kennedy School of Executive Education, graduating and earning certification in Strategies for Building and Leading Diverse Organizations.

PUBLIC SECTOR HONOREE

Verdenia C. Baker

Administrator, Palm Beach County

Verdenia, a certified Government Financial Manager, was chosen as the Palm Beach County Administrator in 2015. She oversees 6,800 positions and balances a $6 billion budget. Palm Beach County is Florida’s third-largest county with a population of 1.5 million and growing. Notably, Palm Beach is one of four Florida counties and one of 50 counties nationally, achieving the AAA bond rating, critical for financial stability. Verdenia’s career with Palm Beach County began as a budget analyst in 1987. She demonstrates the ability to collaborate with strategic partners to enhance the quality of life for residents and businesses. Verdenia led negotiations in recruiting the Florida Scripps Research Institute to Palm Beach County, a foundation of the local biotechnology industry. Verdenia again was the leader in a voter-approved 2016 Infrastructure Sales Tax initiative, expected to generate $2.7 billion for new and renovated schools, roads and facilities over 10 years. Verdenia led initiatives such as the Mandatory Inclusionary Workforce Housing Program, Community Land Trust, re-implemented the small, minority and women business enterprise program in 2019, and the recently created Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. Verdenia is a part of national, state, local, professional, and community organizations and has received numerous accolades. While Verdenia’s acknowledgments span many years, her recognitions in 2021 include Florida’s Onyx Magazine’s one of 2021’s Women on the Move, honoring the state’s most impactful and influential women. The 2021 Leadership Heroes in Medicine Award from the Palm Beach County Medical Society in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. In July 2021, Verdenia became President of the Florida Association of County Managers, a collective body of all 67 counties in Florida. Verdenia holds a Master of Science Degree in Public Administration and a Bachelor of Science Degree in Rehabilitative Services, both from Florida State University. Verdenia is married to Joe, and they have two daughters, Jasmin, Shannee and a granddaughter, Lauren Nicole.