Clifton has managed youth development initiatives at Grand Street Settlement, Prep for Prep, and the Center for Supportive Schools (formerly the Princeton Center for Leadership Training). For nearly 7 years, he directed the Children’s Aid Society’s African American Male Initiative – launched in 2007 to addresses the disproportionate representation of black males in negative outcomes associated with education and the criminal justice system. Clifton was formerly a program manager at Fairfield County’s Community Foundation – where he oversaw the foundation’s grant-making in youth development and education.   He is currently the director of Wesleyan University’s Jewett Center for Community Partnerships – which focuses on supporting the civic preparedness of Wesleyan students, while working with partners to create a just, equitable, and sustainable future for communities beyond the campus—nearby and around the world.

Clifton Watson is a native of New Haven, Connecticut and graduate of James Hillhouse High School. Clifton graduated with a B.A in Africana Studies from the University of Connecticut, before earning a doctorate in history at Fordham University. He began his career at LEAP (Leadership, Education, Athletics, in Partnership) – a New haven based initiative committed to supporting the leadership and intellectual development of inner-city youth.