Level Up Leadership

The audience should be prepared to be enlightened, to have "ah ha" moments, and to be inspired.

Dr. Aaron D. Johnson is a passionate advocate for children, education, community empowerment, organizational leadership, and anti-racism. He is dedicated to inspiring youth to envision and pursue their dreams beyond the limitations of their immediate environments. He emphasizes the importance of diligence, hard work, and focus in achieving aspirations.

With over 15 years of experience teaching Global Studies, African American Studies, and Criminal Justice at Bay Shore Senior High School, Dr. Johnson now serves as a high school administrator. His career is distinguished by numerous accolades recognizing his commitment to equity, social justice, and child advocacy. As an esteemed educator and dynamic speaker, he has delivered keynote addresses at various commencement ceremonies and co-organized impactful Black History Month programs at both Bay Shore and Freeport High Schools.

Dr. Johnson's civic contributions have been acknowledged through a New York State Proclamation for education and activism, along with citations from Assemblyman Philip Ramos for his unwavering dedication to child advocacy. Suffolk County Legislator Ricardo Montano recognized his outstanding community contributions during Islip Town’s Black History Month celebration and Congressman Steve Israel for his steadfast commitment to service.

Academically, Dr. Johnson holds a Doctor of Education from St. John's University and a Master of Arts degree in Liberal Studies with a concentration in History from SUNY Stony Brook University. He also possesses two Bachelor’s degrees: one in Adolescence Education (7–12) and Social Studies from SUNY College at Old Westbury, and another in History from Southern Connecticut State University, where he attended on a full athletic scholarship for basketball.

As an African American male educator, Johnson is one of fewer than 2% in the career demographic. In addition to his lofty achievements, he literally stands tall: at 6 feet and 7 inches. And he is more than an educator: a listener, an adviser, and a role model, always striving to be a pillar of excellence and an example of respect, decency, pride, and intelligence in the community.

- Engaged Participant
- Open-mindedness