Apr 10, 2018

NEWS: Equality NC Chooses Kendra R. Johnson to Lead Equality NC as Its Next Executive Director

RALEIGH, NC — Equality NC, North Carolina’s largest and oldest organization working for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ) equality, announced today the selection of Kendra R. Johnson as its next Executive Director. As Executive Director, Kendra will be directly responsible for implementing ENC’s strategic vision and for leading staff, volunteers, partners, and allies in advancing the organization’s mission.

“Kendra Johnson is one of the Equality Movement's most highly respected, experienced and capable leaders. Her vision and understanding of the needs of the communities Equality NC serves ensures that the organization will continue to lead and transform our essential work. Under her leadership Equality NC is uniquely poised to push equality forward within, among and for the LGBTQ community, kindred communities and allies throughout our State,” said Board Co-chairs Paula Kohut and Donna Oldham.

Prior to her appointment, Johnson worked as the Arkansas State Director for the Human Rights Campaign, where she led the organization’s Project One America effort across the state to bring equality to LGBTQ people. Using the resources of HRC and collaborating with local organizations, she worked to change hearts and minds, advance enduring legal protections, and build more inclusive institutions.

"I am honored to fight for fairness and equality for the people of North Carolina," said Kendra R. Johnson. "Equality NC has accomplished a lot even in the face of strong opposition. I am excited to join this passionate group of people and work alongside coalition partners and advocates in North Carolina."

"Kendra Johnson has played an instrumental role in changing hearts and minds in Arkansas through HRC’s Project One America — and we are thrilled that she will now bring that same passion and dedication to the state of North Carolina,” said HRC President Chad Griffin. “While we will miss her valuable contributions to our team, we look forward to deepening our relationship with Equality NC and continuing to work with Kendra to advance equality. We are proud to call Kendra a member of the HRC Family and wish her continued success."

Johnson received her Bachelor of Arts degree from Spelman College, in Atlanta, GA. After working over a decade as a journalist in Brazil, she obtained a Master of Public Administration degree from the University of Arkansas-Little Rock. Her capstone project at UALR was titled, “HIV/AIDS Prevention Programs in Arkansas: A Needs Assessment.” Johnson also serves as Chair of the Board of Southerners on New Ground (SONG).

Johnson will officially begin her new position on May 7. She and her partner of 15 years, Cristina, have two daughters.