About Patrice
A visionary executive with a relentless commitment to racial, gender, and educational equity Dr. Patrice S. Johnson is a solution-oriented expert in strategic planning, research, and program management.
Filling prominent offices as the youngest elected Pro Tempore Mayor and Councilwoman for the City of Muskegon Heights, Dr. Johnson capitalized on keen opportunities to advocate for her hometown. Her effervescent efforts to encourage mindful promulgation have produced long-lasting, systemic change. As an Executive Director of Boys Hope Girls Hope of Detroit, Dr. Johnson spearheaded fundraising campaigns, transformative partnerships, and programmatic innovation to increase equitable opportunities for youth. Including launching the first of its kind, 21st Century Urban Boarding Program for girls of color in Michigan.
A studied leader and scholar-practitioner, Dr. Johnson was the first person of color to complete a Doctorate of Education in Organizational Leadership and Development from Cornerstone University. Her research explored the impact of emergency financial management for predominantly African American school districts in Michigan. This critical narrative study challenged policies that disproportionately affect communities of color and exacerbate racism. Dr. Johnson embraces multi-dimensional education, holding a Bachelor of Arts in Social Relations and Public Policy from Michigan State University and a Master of Arts in Ministry Leadership from Grand Rapids Theological Seminary.
Dr. Johnson has authored two faith-based books, Kingdom Perseverance and My Father’s Kingdom. Dr. Johnson is also an inspired editorial contributor, with works entitled, Dear Charles: Black Women Change the World, Carrying Your Burden in the Heat of the Day, and It Was All a Dream: A Message to President Joe Biden on Education.
Dr. Johnson is unapologetically spearheading a global movement to put Black girls first in the tech space as the Chief Programs Officer at Black Girls CODE.
