Meet leader and Advocate

Dr. Robert E. Johnson

A Detroit Native with Big Dreams

Dr. Robert E. Johnson is not just a leader; he's a visionary, an educator, and a catalyst for transformative change. His unwavering commitment to innovation and education has propelled him to the forefront of shaping the future landscape of both business and academia.

As a seasoned leader, Dr. Johnson has not only pioneered Agile methodologies but has also revolutionized traditional approaches to business strategies. His multifaceted leadership style emphasizes collaboration, adaptability, and an unyielding pursuit of excellence. Under his guidance, organizations have embraced agility, fostering cultures of innovation and resilience that propel them toward unprecedented success.

Yet Dr. Johnson's impact extends far beyond the boardroom. He's a passionate advocate for integrating Agile principles into organizational design, leadership strategies, and educational curricula, recognizing that the future belongs to those who can adapt and innovate. Through his tireless efforts, he empowers future generations with the mindset and skills necessary to thrive in dynamic environments, ensuring that they are not just prepared for the future but poised to succeed with agility.

Inspired Leadership

Dr. Johnson served as a president and chancellor at three universities for over 15 years which reflects his lifelong dedication to education and impactful leadership. He was inspired by his uncle and namesake, Robert E. Johnson, who was the associate publisher and executive editor of Jet Magazine, and his father, who provided him with the “Ten Ingredients for a Successful Leader.”  As an alumnus of Morehouse College, he is the product of its mission, which is “to develop men with disciplined minds who will lead lives of leadership and service.”

MAKING A DIFFERENCE: LEADERSHIP TECHNIQUES

The Ways He Leads

Visionary

For years Dr. Johnson as a 3X university president has charted the course at multiple institutions of higher learning with bold vision and unwavering determination. He has developed and led learning agility empowering the next generation of leaders to learn, unlearn and relearn to transform organizational growth, elevate brand, in lead strategic thinking.  

Driven

 In his eyes, disruption is not a setback but a springboard for innovation in American higher education. He sees this moment as an unparalleled opportunity to reshape institutions, making them more agile and responsive to the needs of tomorrow's leaders. Drawing inspiration from his own journey as a Morehouse Man and the wisdom of mentors, He is driven by a profound commitment to service and the empowerment of future generations. His leadership is grounded in the belief that compassion and integrity must guide all endeavors.

Accomplished

His leadership journey is a testament to his versatility and ability to affect change across diverse institutions spanning in size from 2000 to over 18,000 students, from public research universities to private institutions, and Catholic universities to historically Black colleges. He has left an indelible mark by elevating their stature and spearheading social impact goals for endowment. Beyond academia, He sparks dialogue that ignites economic growth and fosters opportunity in communities. 

Future-Focused

He leads with an unwavering focus on the future. His visionary leadership, coupled with his commitment to the transformative power of education, inspires students to embrace change and seize opportunities. With him at the helm, multiple universities did not just prepare students for tomorrow; he shaped the leaders who will define it.