Dr. John R. Watret is the Chancellor for Embry‑Riddle Aeronautical University, Worldwide. He provides leadership and strategic direction that fosters growth, maintains academic integrity and promotes efficient operations for the Worldwide Headquarters in Daytona Beach, Florida and the more than 100 site locations worldwide.
Dr. Watret has managed the growth and expansion of online education for Embry‑Riddle Aeronautical University. His commitment and dedication to leading the campus to provide accessible, robust degree programs is reflected in the award winning, highly recognizable programming and curriculum that is used with more than 20,000 students annually. Under his direction, the Worldwide Campus has experienced an increase in accredited programs, an expansion of highly qualified faculty and staff, and the introduction of research initiatives all of which help to advance the university’s relationships throughout the United States, Europe, Asia, and South America. Embry‑Riddle Worldwide has maintained top rank by U.S. News & World Report for Best Online Bachelor’s Programs since 2016.
Dr. Watret is active with organizations both nationally and internationally, serving as Chairman of the Board of Directors for Embry‑Riddle Aeronautical University-Asia, Ltd. in Singapore; as an elected member for the Flight Safety Foundation Board of Governors; and as past board chair, and current board member, for the Florida Virtual School Board of Trustees. He is also a Fellow of the Royal Aeronautical Society (FRAeS) and has been a featured speaker and panelist at several national and international conferences. During his 30+year tenure with the University, Watret has served in several administration roles, and he is a tenured Professor of Mathematics.
A licensed private pilot, he holds a Ph.D. and Master of Science in Mathematics, both from Texas A&M University, and a bachelor’s degree with honors from Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh, Scotland.
Visit the Worldwide Campus' Administration website.
