Originally from North Carolina, Watson earned a B.A. in English Literature from Duke University, am M.A. in International Relations from Johns Hopkins University of Advanced International Studies and an M.S. in National Security Strategy from the National War College.

 

As a member of the Foreign Service, he has served in Tokyo, Manila, London, and Kuwait. Watson did a tour as Economic Counselor at the US Embassy in Hanoi, Vietnam, and was Vice Chairman of the United Nations International School in Hanoi. In July 2007, he became Deputy Director of the State Department’s Office for Russian Affairs and then served as Acting Director from January to June 2009.

 

Watson is married and has two daughters.

 

Sam Watson Official Biography