Delta Gamma Mourns the Loss of Longtime Executive Director, Margaret “Maggie” Hess Watkins, Alpha Xi-West Virginia

Together in sisterhood, Delta Gamma mourns the passing of past Executive Director Margaret “Maggie” Hess Watkins, Alpha Xi-West Virginia. She passed away on Monday, November 9, after courageously living with Parkinson’s disease for 36 years. Maggie’s strength was an inspiration to all who knew her, as she refused to let the illness dim her spirit or define who she was. 
 
Initiated into Alpha Xi-West Virginia in 1955, Maggie transformed a collegiate passion for journalism into a lifelong, defining career of service to Delta Gamma sisterhood. Her professional journey with Delta Gamma began when she was named Editor of the ANCHORA in 1975, a role which she held until 1982. That year, she stepped into the role of Delta Gamma Fraternity’s third Executive Director, leading Executive Offices, the Fraternity and Foundation‘s operations with dedication until her retirement in 1999. 

Throughout her 17-year tenure as Executive Director, Maggie set a standard of excellence that shaped generations of staff and volunteer leaders. Known for her signature poise, sharp intellect and directness, she paired high professional expectations with deep generosity. Her character shone through in quiet acts, such as stepping in behind the scenes to cover a collegian’s dues so she could remain an active member of her chapter. 

“Margaret Hess Watkins was my mentor, and she showed me what it looks like to lead with high standards and a big heart,” said current Delta Gamma Fraternity Executive Director Tracey Doebling Williams, Beta Sigma-Maryland. “She was classy and poised, and she was direct. She cared deeply for so many people. She taught us lessons we still carry, and she never let us settle for second best. What I remember most is that when she pushed you to make something better, you wanted to, because you knew she believed in you.” 

For those who worked alongside her at Executive Offices in the 1990s, Maggie’s commitment to professionalism was legendary, right down to running into her at the grocery store on a weekend dressed in a sharp suit and heels. Beneath her polished exterior was a fierce, steadfast advocate for the fraternal movement and the bonds of sisterhood. Current staff members who were then fresh out of college say her example left a lasting impression and instilled professional standards they have carried throughout their lives. 

Former Fraternity President Maureen “Reen” Sweeney Syring, Nu-Idaho, shared, “Maggie believed firmly, fiercely and deeply in fraternities and sororities. I used to pity the person or persons who believed otherwise and would try to take her on. Without exception, they would walk away with a whole new perspective. If there is one word to describe my dear friend and sister, it would be loyalty. Maggie was loyal to her family, her friends and her beliefs.” 

Delta Gamma extends our deepest condolences to her son David and daughter-in-law Pamela Watkins, Beta Zeta-Denison; daughter, Nancy Pridgen, Gamma Theta-Florida; and two grandsons, Tyler Pridgen and Michael Watkins, and all who were fortunate to be mentored, challenged and championed by her. Her enduring impact on our Fraternity will never be forgotten. She will be truly missed. 

Maggie’s obituary and services can be viewed here. 

About Delta Gamma: Delta Gamma Fraternity was founded in 1873 at Lewis School in Oxford, Mississippi. The Fraternity’s primary purpose is to foster high ideals of friendship, promote educational and cultural interests, create a true sense of social responsibility and develop the best qualities of character. Delta Gamma has more than 290,000 initiated members, 147 collegiate chapters and more than 170 alumnae groups. Delta Gamma Fraternity Executive Offices is in Columbus, Ohio.