Chris Watts Named Executive Director of the National Foundation on Fitness, Sports & Nutrition

WASHINGTON, May 5, 2015 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Today, at the annual meeting of the President's Council on Fitness, Sports & Nutrition (PCFSN), Chris Watts was named the new Executive Director of the National Foundation on Fitness, Sports & Nutrition (NFFSN), effective May 11, 2015.

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The NFFSN was established by an Act of Congress and signed into law by President Barack Obama on December 22, 2010, with the purpose of supporting and strengthening the mission of the President's Council by generating private sector investments and partnerships to help all Americans live active, healthy lives.

"After an exhaustive search, it was clear Chris was the right person to lead the NFFSN as he brings a unique perspective and understanding of government, business, and nonprofits to this role," says NFFSN Board Chairman Pat Cunnane.  "Chris's leadership in developing innovative partnerships, strategic thinking, and collaborative problem solving will be instrumental in taking the Foundation to the next level."

The comprehensive executive search was led by Accenture, which engaged hundreds of candidates through a thorough selection process.

Chris joins the NFFSN after serving as Managing Director of 4POINT4, a sportswear company that gives back to nonprofits, where he was recently named to the Forbes 30 Under 30 list for sports.  Previously, Chris served as a Fellow at the PCFSN where he led strategic partnerships, including special projects in support of the First Lady's Let's Move! initiative. A Pittsburgh native and Carnegie Mellon University graduate, Chris earned an MBA from George Washington University.

"I'm honored to have the opportunity to lead the Foundation and I appreciate the great responsibility I have in this role," says NFFSN Executive Director Chris Watts.  "It's time to build upon the Council's rich history and generate resources for programs addressing some of the most pressing issues in our country."

The NFFSN will be focused on securing resources for PCFSN priorities, including its premier programs, the Presidential Youth Fitness Program (PYFP) and I Can Do It, You Can Do It!  The General Mills Foundation is the inaugural sponsor of PYFP and has committed $10 million over six years to help implement the program in schools nationwide.

"Chris has a unique ability to bring people and organizations together around a common mission," said PCFSN Executive Director Shellie Pfohl. "His creativity and innovative spirit will serve the NFFSN and PCFSN well."

About NFFSN
The National Foundation on Fitness, Sports and Nutrition was established by an Act of Congress and signed into law by President Barack Obama on December 22, 2010. The Foundation was created as a private nonprofit corporation to support and supplement the mission of the President's Council on Fitness, Sports and Nutrition. The Foundation encourages and promotes private sector support to help all Americans get active, play sports, and eat healthier. The Foundation Board members are recommended by the ranking members of Congress and appointed by the Secretary of the Department of Health & Human Services. www.NFFSN.org

About PCFSN
The President's Council on Fitness, Sports & Nutrition educates, engages and empowers all Americans to adopt a healthy lifestyle that includes regular physical activity and healthy eating.  The President's Council is a committee of volunteer citizens appointed by the President who serve in an advisory capacity through the Secretary of Health and Human Services. Through cross sector partnerships, the President's Council promotes healthy lifestyles through evidence based programs and initiatives for Americans of all ages, background, and abilities. www.fitness.gov

CONTACT:
Pat Cunnane
[email protected]

SOURCE National Foundation on Fitness, Sports & Nutrition