Our work at New Pathways has taught me the importance of being authentic, of being vulnerable, of being intentional — and I strive to model those values.
Why is honoring achievement important? How does it impact our business community?
Phoenix is a center of innovation and entrepreneurship. It is a place where people can find their niche — or create their place. By honoring achievement, the business community can highlight those people who have set high standards and accomplished big goals. This practice highlights a level of success that others can strive toward.
So many leaders in the business community in Phoenix serve as role models to the next generation of professionals. Their achievement is noted not only in the workplace but also in their tireless dedication to the nonprofit community — in giving back to others to make our entire city stronger. Recognizing these achievements highlights the opportunities for further innovation and deeper service. This continually raises the bar and encourages others to rise to the challenge.
What is the single most important thing you have learned throughout your career that would inspire others/other women?
The most important thing I have learned in my career is the power of vulnerability. In my early days, that is a statement I never thought I would write. As I was building my career, my focus was on achievements — earning a promotion, completing my doctoral degree, serving on boards, building a network, becoming a CEO. While all those accomplishments were important, I have discovered that what truly makes me a strong leader is my ability to be vulnerable — to be authentic in every way.
People crave genuine connection in the workplace and in the community. They appreciate others who are willing to admit mistakes, who are aware of their weaknesses, and who are truly interested in building human connections. While being vulnerable is always difficult, it can also be a personal superpower. Self-knowledge and self-awareness are critical aspects of true leadership.
What do you think we can do – now – to make a difference for young people/women in Arizona?
I feel so lucky that I get to work with young people every day. I am so inspired by the strength and spirit of teenagers. Their creativity, their intelligence and their determination to live their dreams is something our community needs to harness.
As the business environment and economy continues to evolve, we can support young people by giving them opportunities to explore their interests. We can volunteer as mentors at any number of organizations to make a personal connection and to support the next generation. We know from research that the most important intervention for children who have experienced adversity is to build a relationship with a caring, dedicated adult. Mentoring programs literally serve to heal the trauma many youth experience, while providing them with new mindsets and perspectives. A host of mentoring opportunities for young women can also help introduce them to new career paths and professional development.
In A Few Words
- What was the last course, certification or training you took to improve yourself professionally? Arizona Endowment Building Institute
- What would you say is a single characteristic OTHERS might attribute to you that defines your success? Steadiness
- What is the one thing you feel you could work on professionally to be a greater success? Discipline
- What is the one professional skill you have that has gotten you where you are today? Courage
- What is the single greatest issue facing Arizona today? Arizona faces a skilled workforce shortage in both the private and nonprofit sectors.
About Me
An experienced leader and nonprofit executive, Dr. Karen D. Johnson has spent her career advancing organizations dedicated to education and to young people. She has served as board president for two Phoenix nonprofits, YWCA Maricopa County and UMOM.
For 27 years, Dr. Johnson served as vice president of University Relations at Midwestern University. In 2021, she took on a new leadership role as president and CEO of New Pathways for Youth in Phoenix. Serving more than 600 teens, the organization is focused on transforming the lives of youth by providing the support, skills and stability they need to flourish.
Dr. Johnson holds degrees from the College of Wooster (B.A.), Northwestern University (M.A.), and Loyola University Chicago (Ph.D.).
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