Purpose, Power and Service: Dr. Karriem Watson on Leadership, Legacy and Moving the Culture
As a respected leader in healthcare and a 2026 Chicago Defender Men of Excellence honoree, Dr. Karriem Watson, CEO of Mile Square Health Center, has dedicated his career to improving access and health outcomes in underserved communities. A mentor, philanthropist, man of faith, and servant leader, Watson’s work is rooted in purpose and impact.
In this conversation with the Chicago Defender, he reflects on leadership, legacy, and the responsibility of creating pathways for future generations.
Q: What does it mean to you to be recognized as a 2026 Chicago Defender Men of Excellence honoree and to be celebrated alongside your peers?
A: It truly means the world to me. It’s a humbling honor. I think about past honorees like Sean Trotter, Victor LaGrone, Claude Robinson and others—men who are not only peers, but mentors and brothers. To be included in that group, in that brotherhood, is incredibly meaningful. It’s something I don’t take lightly.
Q: This year’s theme is “Power Moves: Men Who Move the Culture.” What is a power move you’ve made—or are making—that’s creating impact in your industry or community?
A: I don’t necessarily think of my decisions as “power moves.” I see myself as a servant leader. What I focus on are brave, aligned and intentional moves.
One example is how we’re positioning community health centers for the future—especially amid challenges like Medicaid cuts and the growing mistrust many communities have toward the healthcare system. For me, a “power move” is about being responsive and aligned. It’s about listening to the community and being unapologetic in how we respond to their needs.
Q: What impact do you hope your work continues to make in the community and for the next generation?
A: I think a lot about succession planning and the next generation. I often say my life is the “amen” to prayers that were prayed before me. I’m here because people sacrificed, opened doors, and saw something in me.
For the next generation, I think about legacy in two ways. As a healthcare leader, I want to create environments where people can live their healthiest, fullest lives. That means access, awareness, and opportunity.
And as a mentor, I focus on helping young people step into their purpose. I don’t ask, “What do you want to be when you grow up?” I ask, “What part of the solution do you see yourself being?”
Q: Can you share a defining moment that shaped the leader you are today?
A: There are a couple of full-circle moments that stand out.
One was investing in a young man years ago when he was a student at City Colleges. He participated in a research program we hosted, and I saw his drive and potential early on. Fast forward nearly 10 years—he completed undergrad, went to law school at Loyola, and is now our director of compliance. He works alongside me.
That experience reminded me that when you invest in people, it pays off. Creating space for others to fully realize their potential is powerful.
Another defining moment for me was having a mentor, Dr. Robert Winn, who truly saw me. Before him, people told me my goals were unrealistic or too scattered. But he said, “Everything you want to do makes sense.” He helped create space for me to become exactly who I envisioned.
Now, years later, I’m walking in that purpose—and I try to do the same for others.
Q: How do you define success beyond your professional achievements?
A: Success, for me, is about how people experience you. My father used to say you’re either part of the solution or part of the problem—there’s no middle ground.
I define success by the impact I have on people. I want people to leave my presence feeling seen, valued and full. Whether it’s in my home, my workplace, or my community, success is about the energy and experience you leave with others.
Q: The medical field can be emotionally and mentally demanding. How do you maintain resilience?
A: I take my mental health seriously. I have a therapist, a strong support system, and a faith foundation that keeps me grounded. I also know when to ask for help and when to take a step back and recharge.
I believe in giving from the overflow. You can’t pour from an empty cup. When you’re full, you can give your best to others—and that’s what people deserve.
Q: What advice would you give to young Black men entering the healthcare field?
A: Be intentional and be committed to service. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. said, “If you want to be great, serve.”
Come into this field ready to serve and ready to be part of the solution. I ask myself every day: What am I going to do today to make someone’s healthcare journey easier?
People don’t come to us because they want to—they come because they need something. It’s our responsibility to meet that need with compassion, understanding and excellence, especially during some of the most difficult moments in their lives.
Q: What does it mean to you to be in a room filled with accomplished and purpose-driven Men of Excellence?
A: It means brotherhood—true, holistic brotherhood.
There’s something powerful about Black men coming together in a space to celebrate one another, to affirm one another, and to simply breathe. It feeds the soul.
To be honored alongside men like Darius Newsom, who I saw as a student and now see thriving, and Brian Eccles, a colleague and friend—it’s deeply meaningful. It’s an honor to be part of that brotherhood.
Dr. Watson exemplifies what it means to be a 2026 Chicago Defender Men of Excellence honoree. His unwavering commitment to community, philanthropy, service, mentorship, and his profession has solidified his place among a distinguished group of leaders who embody excellence.
His resilience is equally commendable. In the face of doubt and opposition, he never stopped believing in his vision. He remained steadfast—continuing to dream, pursue, and push forward until he found mentorship that affirmed his purpose and potential.
Today, those dreams have been realized. Dr. Watson walks boldly in that vision—grounded in purpose, driven by passion, and committed to excellence.
With that, the Chicago Defender proudly congratulates Dr. Watson and welcomes him into the Men of Excellence family.