History and Funders

The programs of the Johnson Institute have been in place since 1998 when a generous GSPIA graduate, LaVonne Johnson, expressed interest in supporting the School’s efforts to train leaders of character and to encourage public institutions to be more accountable for performance and outcomes. Between 1998 and 2005, LaVonne and Glen Johnson provided annual operating support for these efforts. In 2006, the Johnsons made an extraordinarily generous gift, increasing their total long-term commitment to approximately $2.5 million.  Consequently, the University formally recognized the program as an institute and named it in honor of LaVonne and Glen Johnson.

In addition to the generous support the Institute receives annually from the Johnsons, other local foundations have contributed as well. The Babcock Charitable Trust provided a gift for general programming, the Massey Charitable Trust has helped fund the Leadership Portfolio Program, The Grable Foundation has granted funds that will help boost the Institute’s social media presence, and the Jewish Healthcare Foundation provided generous funding over three years to enhance the Leadership Portfolio Program. Many private individuals including members of our Advisory Board have also helped fund the Johnson Institute’s general programming.