Oklahoma City –
Watkins was first elected to the Oklahoma State Senate 1974. Two years later, he won his seat in the U.S. House of Representatives, where he served for the next 14 years as a Democrat. In 1990, Watkins decided not to run for an eighth term. Instead he ran back-to-back campaigns for Oklahoma Governor. Neither was successful. In 1996, he returned to Congress as a Republican and served the state for another six years.
Friends and colleagues remember him as a a tireless advocate for education, economic development, and workforce training in Oklahoma.
“His leadership played a crucial role in promoting Oklahoma’s Career and Technology Education system as a model for preparing students and workers for high-demand careers,” said CareerTech State Director Brent Haken. “His unwavering belief in the power of technical education helped shape policies that continue to benefit Oklahoma’s economy and workforce today.”
Watkins was inducted into the Oklahoma CareerTech Hall of Fame in 2001.
State House Speaker Kyle Hilbert, R-Bristow, shared a similar sentiment.
“He had a heart for students and spent his life making Oklahoma better and we are grateful for his service – his legacy will live on long beyond his life while he was with us,” said Hilbert.
Interim OSU President Jim Hess wished condolences for Hess’s family, saying,
The Cowboy family lost a leader and friend today with the passing of Wes Watkins. Our hearts go out to his family during this difficult time. He left an indelible mark on this university, his alma mater, through his generosity and vision for economic prosperity for Oklahoma businesses and students.
