Memphis-Shelby County Schools (MSCS) has welcomed a new face to its leadership team in the person of Jermaine Johnson, appointed as the district's new Strategic Communications Officer. The announcement, made public by MSCS, laid out the vision that Johnson is expected to bring his expansive expertise to bear on enhancing the district's profile and outreach. "Jermaine brings an incredible mix of experience, creativity, and strategic insight to our district," MSCS quipped Dr. Marie N. Feagins in the announcement.
Tasked with guiding MSCS through a landscape where visibility is synonymous with voice, Mr. Johnson is set to lead a three-year strategy targeting improvements within the district's TV and Radio Stations, Media Relations, Constituent Services, and Public Relations departments, where his background in communication is expected to resonate across internal and external stakeholder groups.
Johnson's career is marked by noteworthy accomplishments in communication and community engagement. Highlighted by his tenure as Director of Communications at the Norwood Resource Center, he was instrumental in propelling public awareness through well-planned initiatives and robust community partnerships, as laid out in MSCS's statement. Notably, his strategies at major athletic events like the SWAC Tournament and SEC games resulted in a notable rise in brand visibility by 30%. Moreover, with his successful fundraising initiatives, he attracted $500,000 in corporate donations aimed at supporting underserved communities.
Mr. Johnson's career spans over two decades, with a trail of influence that led from being an On-Air Radio Personality at Summit Media to educating minds at Tuscaloosa City Schools and guiding futures at Stillman College. With a Bachelor of Science degree in English and Communications from Stillman College, his impact has also been recognized through multiple accolades, including the prestigious 2023 Birmingham Association of Black Journalists Community Service Award and the 2023 Refreshing Our Communities "Man of Influence" Award, as made clear by MSCS. A testament to his influence, Johnson's inclusion in The Root Magazine's "100 Most Influential African Americans of 2020" further cements his standing in the sphere of impactful communication.
This strategic appointment signals MSCS's commitment to strengthening its communication efforts to better serve its community. Johnson's experience and accolades suggest that he is well-equipped to drive the district's strategy forward. His prior roles have not only reflected professional expertise but also a profound dedication to the educational and communal fabric that MSCS aims to support and enhance.
