Bio.

Strategist. Coach. Connector. Catalyst for Change.

Gina Watts is a dynamic leader, speaker, and strategist whose life’s work centers on helping people and organizations unlock potential and live with purpose. With graduate degrees in Public Administration and Social Work, Gina blends academic excellence with over 25 years of experience across education, nonprofit leadership, and global development.

A passionate advocate for leadership and learning, Gina spent a decade at Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus, where she taught Human Development and Family Studies and founded the Student Success Center. During this time, she discovered her calling to coach and empower others, becoming a certified Career Development Facilitator Instructor and licensed coach through the National Career Development Association (NCDA).

Since joining the Maxwell Leadership Team in 2012, Gina has become a driving force behind its youth and educator initiatives. She created YouthMAX Plus in partnership with Nick Vujicic, launched the Global Youth Initiative that has reached more than 2.2 million young people worldwide, and developed the Youth Certification—equipping thousands of adults to inspire the next generation. Today, she serves as Vice President of Strategy and Development for Growing Leaders, powered by the Maxwell Leadership Foundation, where she leads teams and partnerships that equip educators and empower students around the world. She is also the co-host of School On a Mission Podcast with Andrew McPeak.

Previously, Gina served as Executive Director of Mission at Vineyard Columbus, leading more than 15 departments and dozens of community-based ministries, including early childhood education, health clinics, food pantries, and prison outreach. Her leadership expanded the organization’s reach through strategic partnerships, grant management, and a deep commitment to serving others with excellence and compassion.

Gina is co-principal of Aretta Elaine, a consulting firm she co-founded with Nikki Mills to help individuals, teams, and organizations “develop their way so they can fulfill their why.” Through Aretta Elaine, Gina and her team coach leaders, design transformative experiences, and equip groups to learn, do, and teach—building stronger teams and lasting impact.

In addition, Gina is a proud member of the Next Step Collective, a collaboration of visionary leaders representing multiple organizations united by a shared mission: to empower individuals, teams, and communities to become architects of their own transformation. Together, they work to catalyze a global movement of positive change that unlocks limitless potential and leaves an enduring legacy.

Beyond her executive leadership, Gina continues to invest in people through career coaching, leadership development, and spiritual growth experiences. She serves as a member of the Penn State Fayette Advisory Board, a member of the volunteer Welcome Team for Propel Ecclesia by Christine Caine and as content creator and facilitator of CORE Workshops: Spiritual Gifts at Vineyard Columbus.

Rooted in faith and family, Gina co-founded the Lillian’s Legacy Scholarship Fund to honor her grandmother’s impact and support students in Fayette County, Pennsylvania. She is a wife to Eric and mother to Christian and Eric Jr.—two roles that bring her the deepest joy and purpose.

Known for her warmth, wisdom, and ability to inspire action, Gina is a sought-after speaker, consultant, and coach who helps individuals and teams move from success to significance—developing their way so they can fulfill their why.

To access a more complete vitae, please visit Mrs. Watts' LinkedIn profile.