Michael Johnson has been elected president of the Owensboro branch of the NAACP, bringing with him a passion for education, community engagement, and civil rights advocacy.
Johnson, who previously served as second vice president and education chair, said he was humbled by the opportunity to lead the organization.
“It means a lot to me,” Johnson said. “I’m really honored and humbled to be elected by the board members. The NAACP has a long history — being one of the oldest civil rights organizations in the world — and I’m truly blessed for this opportunity.”
Johnson said one of his primary goals is to expand membership and get more young people involved in the work of the NAACP.
“We want to be able to get our youth more involved with our local branch,” he said. “We do have a youth chapter at Owensboro High School, and we will continue to build upon that and engage our community partners as well.”
Johnson said one of the group’s most significant upcoming events is the Freedom Fund Banquet, scheduled for Jan. 24 at Kentucky Wesleyan College’s Rogers Hall. The annual banquet serves as a major fundraiser and gathering for the organization.
In addition to fundraising, the chapter is planning voter registration efforts ahead of upcoming elections.
“We’ve made a lot of progress,” Johnson said. “But we still can continue to improve race relations in Owensboro. I’m eager to keep working toward that and continue to build upon what the NAACP has already done.”
Johnson said the local branch was established in the late 1940s.
He said his own path into leadership came from a deep belief in the organization’s mission.
“I take the leadership role very personally,” Johnson said. “It’s important to have good leadership in an organization like the NAACP. I love what it stands for — freedom, justice, dignity, civil rights, equity, and equality.”
Johnson added he’s committed to helping Owensboro grow stronger by advocating for those who may feel unheard.
“I love Owensboro. I love the people of Owensboro,” he said. “We want to help our community improve and do what we can to give voice to folks and help our community be stronger.”
