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Chris Watts, a negotiation coach at Texas A&M School of Law and Texas Wesleyan University School of Law alumnus, was elected Mayor of Denton on May 10. A member of the Denton City Council from 2007 to 2013, Watts garnered nearly 61% of the record turnout in a race against two opponents. The swearing-in ceremony occurred May 20 in the Denton City Council chambers.

"I am humbled by the resounding show of support by Denton voters seeking significant change in leadership at City Hall," Watts said. "I look forward to guiding the city to ans improved financial footing through optimization of resources and a robust, proactive approach to economic development."

A Denton real estate investor, Watts has coached the law school's American Bar Association (ABA) Student Division negotiating teams since 2000. Watts' teams have qualified for the ABA National Competition seven times and, in 2011, his team was named ABA National Champion.

Watts is currently in his second term as president of the board of directors of Texas Municipal Power Agency (TMPA), a power production station located outside of Bryan/College Station, Texas. TMPA is owned by four member cities: Bryan, Denton, Garland and Greenville. Watts has served as both vice president and treasurer of TMPA since his appointments to the board by the Denton City Council, in 2009, 2011 and 2013.

Watts earned a bachelor's degree in computer science (1983) and a master's degree in education counseling and student services (1983) from the University of North Texas. In 2000, he was awarded a doctor of jurisprudence by Texas Wesleyan University School of Law.

- Article and photo courtesy of Pati Haworth, Graham Public Relations