UWF welcomes new chair for the Department of Teacher Education and Educational Leadership

“We are very excited to welcome Dr. Johnson to the College of Education and Professional Studies to lead one of the largest academic departments at UWF,” said Dr. Stacie Whinnery, interim dean of the College of Education and Professional Studies. “Dr. Johnson brings a vast array of experiences in educational leadership and policy research in PreK-12 education as well as international program development and evaluation. His proven record of success and commitment to promoting high-quality educational programs will make him an exceptional leader.”

A former high school English teacher and principal, Johnson taught in educational leadership programs for 12 years and served from 2003-2006 as policy research director for the Rural School and Community Trust, a national non-profit organization addressing the crucial relationship between good schools and thriving communities. In addition to his work in the U.S., Johnson consults regularly with universities in Jordan and Saudi Arabia on leadership development and education reform initiatives.

“I’m thrilled to join such a diverse and dynamic college,” Johnson said. “I look forward to marshaling the assets of TEEL to contribute to the University by preparing educators and educational leaders who can improve teaching and learning both here in the region and throughout the world.”

Johnson is the author of more than 50 publications in the areas of rural education, educational policy, school leadership and educational equity/achievement gap issues. Recent publications include the co-edited book Dynamics of Social Class, Race and Place in Rural Education, and he is currently working on multiple projects investigating the influence of school and community factors on students’ cognitive and affective engagement with school. His research has been cited in school finance litigation and legislation in multiple states, he has testified before state legislative committees and he has presented research briefings on Capitol Hill.

Johnson earned a bachelor’s degree in political science and a master’s degree in English literature from Eastern Kentucky University and a doctorate in educational administration from Ohio University.