JILLIENE Johnson
Company: The University of Vermont
Title: Diversity, Engagement, and Professional Development Director
Age: 31
Favorite Part of Job? I deeply enjoy working in the field of higher education because I get to support the learning and development of students at a pivotal time in their lives. My favorite part of my role is working collaboratively with my colleagues to implement innovative, thoughtful, and dynamic programs and services that positively impact our students and staff in the Division of Student Affairs.
Most Inspiring Mentor: My most inspiring mentor is my mother. She is funny, determined, and genuinely gives her all to everyone she meets and all that she does. She has always encouraged me to put God first, pursue my passion, and has forgone things in her life to make sure I had opportunities that she was not afforded.
Tell us something fun about yourself that few people know: I randomly burst out in song at any given moment (in the office, the golf course, etc.), which catches people of guard and provides us a moment of comic relief.
Favorite Vermont Escape: I would say it is a tie between taking a drive to Saint Albans during the fall foliage and going to Overlook Park to watch the sunset.
Favorite Downtime Activity: Meeting friends downtown to catch up over tea at Dobra's Tea House and cocktails at the Gryphon.
Favorite Social Media: My favorite social media platforms are Facebook and Instagram. I love getting to see pictures of friends and family both near and far, and learning what's happening in various communities. These spaces help to keep me connected!
What is the best career advice you have received? You have to always believe in yourself and trust your intuition despite what others may say. Sometimes you have to help people see your vision.
Where do you see yourself professionally in ten years? I see myself working in areas where I can advocate for the needs of marginalized communities and bring my full self to my work.
What motivated you to live and work in Vermont? I attend The University of Vermont as a graduate student in the Higher Education and Student Affairs Administration program and fell in love with my partner, Rafael, here. I'm not originally from Vermont, but it will always be a second home to us.
Career Highlights: Serving as a Congressional Black Caucus Fellow on Capitol Hill. My portfolio consisted of working on issues of college affordability, expanding access to nontraditional students, college completion, and promoting innovation. In addition to working on the named issues, the scope of my work also included developing relationships with community colleges and Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). My partnership and collaboration with HBCU advocates culminated in an appropriations letter, legislation to strengthen the Higher Education Act, and informed the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions’ Committee hearing: Strengthening Minority Serving Institutions: Best Practices and Innovations for Student Success.
Community Involvement: I always do my best to stay involved in the local Vermont community and my community in Ohio. Currently, I have the honor of serving as a mentor for the NASPA Undergraduate Fellows Program and the University’s Upward Bound program, to a current undergraduate student at the University of Vermont and a high school student who lives in Winooski, VT respectively. In the area of health and well-being, I appreciate serving on the Board of Advisors and as an instructor at AC Pilates – Restorative Movement & Well Being studio. My love for Pilates and working with clients with diverse backgrounds and skills in a supportive environment has truly been rewarding.
Most recently, I’ve become a Board of Trustee member for The College of Wooster, located in Wooster, Ohio. I am deeply humbled to serve in this new role and look forward to advancing the mission of my alma mater and better supporting the students, staff, and faculty. I feel grateful to have opportunities to give back to communities that have invested so much in me.