Michael Johnson
John Carroll University
Education: University of Wisconsin-Madison, bachelor’s degree; University of Chicago Booth School of Business, master’s degree and doctorate
Toughest Challenge: Implementing a strategic plan and a restructuring plan in the middle of a pandemic
How I Motivate Others: Through inspired leadership, which in the Jesuit tradition is leading not by power or influence but rather by example.
Most Inspiring Person: In life, my wife, Jill, who simply makes everyone in our family better. In work, it’s J. Edward (Jay) Russo, my dissertation chairman at the University of Chicago and my colleague and mentor during my years at Cornell University.
Most Important Skill: Making decisions that are fact-based and in the best interests of your organization
Fun Fact: I was born in North Dakota; raised in Madison, Wisconsin; went to graduate school in Chicago; and have had positions at Michigan, Cornell and Babson. So, Cleveland is the farthest south we have ever lived.