Robert N. Johnson grew up deeply loving his country and the people who helped improve it. Today, as an IU alum, philanthropist, and founding member of the Black Philanthropy Circle, Johnson sees philanthropy as action through which it is possible to better our country and the world.
Since he graduated from IU Bloomington, Johnson has worked at Procter & Gamble and Kraft Foods. His 25-year career led him to over 20 years in leadership roles at four different headquarters around the country. During this time, Johnson also became heavily involved in nonprofit causes--a trend that continues today. Johnson will join the IU Board of Directors for the IU Foundation this fall. In addition, he has made a tremendous contribution to the National Smithsonian Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage, Smithsonian Institution Asian Pacific American Center Advisory Board, Smithsonian Institution Steering Committee, and the Adelante Foundation, among other national leadership and philanthropic initiatives.
At IU, Johnson’s involvement in philanthropic work has meant acting as the chair of the IU Alumni Association, sitting on leadership and advisory boards throughout the university, and becoming a founding member of the Black Philanthropy Circle.