May 9, 2022

IMLS Appoints New Chief Information Officer
Tekquell Watson Brings DOD Leadership Experience to Office of the Chief Information Officer

Tekquell Watson
Tekquell Watson

Washington, DC—The Institute of Museum and Library Services has appointed Tekquell Watson as the agency's new Chief Information Officer, effective May 9. Watson comes to IMLS from a leading role in the Special Missions Division of the Communications Directorate at Robins Air Force Base.

“We are excited that Tekquell, with her extensive background and set of career accomplishments, is joining the IMLS in this important moment,” said IMLS Director Crosby Kemper.

Watson will lead IMLS’s Office of the Chief Information Officer (OCIO), an essential component in supporting and advancing IMLS's efforts to create stronger libraries and museums that connect people to information and ideas. OCIO oversees the agency’s information technology, cybersecurity, application development and operations, data warehouse, and website.

“Joining IMLS affords me the opportunity to be a part of a unique agency that is dedicated to promoting the educational advances within diverse communities through utilizing innovative technologies,” said Watson. “The agency is a force multiplier in supporting the nation’s museums and libraries by empowering community engagement.”

Watson’s background in information technology began in the Department of Defense as a U.S. Air Force Civilian Palace Acquire Intern within the Global Command & Control System at Gunter Air Force Base. During her career, she was instrumental in the implementation of agile software methodology throughout her division, streamlining the software lifecycle, and cultivating cross-functional teams. Most recently, she led over 90 IT professionals managing more than 60 systems and included initiatives like expanding system authorization access request programs, cloud migration, and application consolidation and modernization efforts.

Watson holds a B.S. in Computer Information Technology and an M.S. in Information Technology with a minor in Project Management, and her professional certifications include Project Management, IT Service Management, and CompTIA Security Plus.

About the Institute of Museum and Library Services
The Institute of Museum and Library Services is the primary source of federal support for the nation’s libraries and museums. We advance, support, and empower America’s museums, libraries, and related organizations through grantmaking, research, and policy development. Our vision is a nation where museums and libraries work together to transform the lives of individuals and communities. To learn more, visit www.imls.gov and follow us on Facebook and Twitter.