Cassandra L. Watson Begins Role as Chief Executive Officer of LifeWays
Jackson, MI
LifeWays announces that Cassandra L. Watson officially begins her role as Chief Executive Officer today, February 3, 2026, marking a meaningful leadership transition shaped by continuity, experience, and deep institutional knowledge.
Watson joined LifeWays in February 2016 and has spent nearly a decade growing alongside the organization, advancing through roles of increasing responsibility across quality improvement, integrated health, outpatient services, and clinical operations. Her career path within LifeWays reflects a strong understanding of both the clinical and operational foundations of public behavioral health.
In her most recent role as Executive Director of Clinical Services, Watson provided oversight of ongoing treatment and support services and helped guide system-wide quality improvement efforts. She has been closely involved in strengthening standards of care, developing consistent clinical policies and procedures, and supporting regulatory compliance across the agency, including CARF accreditation, CLIA waiver status, and substance use disorder licensure.
Watson holds a Master of Science in Nursing from Eastern Michigan University and a Master of Public Health from Michigan State University, in addition to a Bachelor of Science in Human Biology and an Associate of Applied Science in Nursing. She is licensed in Michigan as both a Nurse Practitioner and Registered Nurse and is nationally board-certified as an Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner.
Watson succeeds Maribeth Leonard, who retires after serving as Chief Executive Officer since 2012 and after serving LifeWays for over 33 years.
Reflecting on her new role, Watson shared:
“I am honored to step into the role of CEO and excited for what lies ahead for LifeWays. This organization has an incredibly dedicated team and a strong foundation built around community, collaboration, and high-quality care. I look forward to continuing to strengthen our services, support our staff, and ensure that individuals and families in our community have access to the care and support they need.”
As Watson begins her tenure, LifeWays looks ahead with a continued focus on inspiring hope and promoting life-enhancing recovery for individuals and families across Jackson and Hillsdale Counties.