WASHINGTON - The Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation announced the arrival of Brenecia Watson, who will expand PBGC's efforts to build a diverse workforce and maintain a discrimination-free, inclusive work environment. As the new Director of Equal Employment Opportunity, she oversees a range of initiatives that include integrating EEO principles into PBGC practices, training, and conflict resolution.
"I've said many times that one of my goals is to make PBGC the best place to work in government," said PBGC Director Tom Reeder. "Making Brenecia a part of our team moves us closer to reaching that status. Her valuable EEO experience is a welcome addition to our leadership team."
Watson said she's excited about her new role and wants to expand the agency's inclusion efforts. "That means I'd like to see PBGC, at all levels, reflect the diversity we see throughout our nation."
Before joining PBGC, Watson spent 22 years in the Army as a non-commissioned officer, where she developed her passion for equal opportunity. Upon retiring from active duty she spent 12 years with the Department of Defense, where she acquired extensive experience in EEO matters. While deployed as a civilian to Kuwait and Afghanistan, she created a Sexual Harassment/Assault Response and Prevention program. She also provided EEO training, alternative dispute resolution, complaint processing, and advisory services.
For her accomplishments, Watson received the Superior Civilian Service Award, Commander's Award for Civilian Service, and the Secretary of Defense Global War on Terrorism Medal.
Watson received a Bachelor of Arts in Human Resource Administration from St. Leo University and a Master of Arts in Human Resource Development and Management from Webster University.
She replaces former EEO Director Karen Margensey, who retired in January 2016.
About PBGC
PBGC protects the pension benefits of more than 40 million Americans in private-sector pension plans. The agency is directly responsible for paying the benefits of about 1.5 million people in failed pension plans. PBGC receives no taxpayer dollars. Its operations are financed by insurance premiums, investment income, and with assets and recoveries from failed single-employer plans. For more information, visit PBGC.gov.