Willis J. Watkins is a native of Detroit and a graduate of Wayne State University. He received his master degree in public administration from Central Michigan University and is employed by the state of Michigan. Mr. Watkins is currently studying the trumpet under the tutelage of Michigan State University Professor Richard Illman. Willis is also a member of the Lansing Concert Band, the Capital Brass Quintet and performed as a soloist with the Meridian Community Band in several of the past concert seasons.