Nadja Johnson, Ph.D., 34
Senior associate dean of the college
Clark University, Worcester
Residence: Worcester
Birthplace: Kingston, Jamaica
Colleges: Fisk University, The University of Central Florida & Florida Atlantic University
At 17, Johnson made about as big of a leap of faith as one could take: She came to the U.S. from Jamaica, alone, with just $400 and two suitcases of clothing. She attended Fisk University, a historically black college in Tennessee where she discovered she wanted to help underserved and underrepresented populations. With a master’s degree in clinical psychology, she began working in a community health clinic providing counseling services to those with income insecurity. Johnson later worked as a college educator and at age 26 earned her doctorate and moved to North Dakota to start a college diversity program. People began seeking out her voice, having her give talks on diversity and inclusion in higher education. In 2016, her path led her to Worcester and Clark University, where she serves on the academic affairs leadership team and is responsible for developing, implementing and assessing strategies to support undergraduate student success. She’s been the president of the local chapter of Philanthropic Educational Organization, helping young women pursue education. Johnson is a member of The Links, Inc. group for African-American women, and the Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce’s Diverse Professional Roundtable. – Profile written by Grant Welker
What four people would you like to travel with for a year? My husband, my father, my brother and my friend Erika
Favorite Central Mass. restaurant? Pomir’s Grill
What is the highest compliment anyone could give you? People saying they feel heard and seen when they are with me.
