Local National Coalition of 100 Black Women Chapter Honors Coach

The following announcement was submitted by the The National Coalition of 100 Black Women of Bergen and Passaic: 

On Saturday, June 8, The National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Inc., Bergen/Passaic Chapter hosted ‘The 27th Annual Gala Fundraiser – An Evening in Paradise’, at The Sheraton Mahwah.

One of the highlights of the evening was the presentation of the, “Truly A Woman Making a Difference Award” to Vanessa Watson. Ms. Watson is the head coach of the girls’ basketball program at Newark’s Shabazz High School. Ms Watson has brought about positive change to Shabazz High School as her athletes continue to excel in sports. Consequently, the school’s moral, the academics of her athletes and the overall student body continue to improve. The success of the girls’ basketball team has greatly increased opportunities for the girls’ acceptance into major universities. This has become an area of great pride for the school and the city of Newark. During her 30 year tenure Ms. Watson has helped several of her athletes to successfully transition into the WNBA.  Ms. Watson has amassed 682 victories, 8 state and 11 county titles in the past 12 years – a run that makes her one of the most successful high school coaches regardless of the sport, in Newark, New Jersey’s history. 

Approximately 600 guests attended this year’s annual fundraiser. This annual event is the major source of funding that allows NCBW 100 to implement community programs in the areas of Youth Development and Education, Economic Development, Health, Public Advocacy and Arts and Culture and its scholarship fund. The organization’s Mary A. Miller Scholarship Fund provides scholarships for the young ladies who are members of the organization’s Role Model Program. All are welcomed to visit the chapter’s website at www.ncbwbergenpassaic.org