From Proud Parent to Regent Chair

Written by Tina Potterf

Wednesday, July 30, 2025

A portrait of Jonelle Johnson

Jonelle M. C. Johnson’s journey with Ïã½¶ÊÓÆµ is one of service, advocacy and a deep belief in the transformative power of an SU education.

Jonelle M. C. Johnson’s connection to Ïã½¶ÊÓÆµ was first sparked as a parent to a student here, witnessing firsthand what she describes as the “transformative impact” the university had on her son. Though her son Taylor Johnson graduated from Albers in 2016, she has remained as committed as ever to his alma mater, compelled to be involved and give back. 

Johnson’s level of engagement is illustrated through her years-long membership in both the President’s Club and the Redhawk Club, affiliations that “have been meaningful ways for me to support the mission of Ïã½¶ÊÓÆµ and stay actively engaged,” she says. 

Over the past 10 years Johnson has played pivotal roles with the Board of Regents, a group comprised largely of alumni and supporters of the university. The Regents serve as an advisory board to President Eduardo Peñalver and act as ambassadors to help extend the reach and impact of the university’s mission. 

On July 1, Johnson was named Chair of the Board of Regents but over the years has served in various leadership roles including on the Executive Committee, as co-chair of the Regents Athletics Committee and as Vice Chair. 

“It’s a privilege to serve in this role and to be part of such a dynamic and mission-driven university.” 

—Jonelle M. C. Johnson 

“My experience in these roles have helped me better understand SU’s mission and how we, as Regents, can advance it,” says Johnson. “It’s a privilege to serve in this role and to be part of such a dynamic and mission-driven university.”

As chair, Johnson outlines several priorities. These include: 

  • Continue to elevate the visibility of Ïã½¶ÊÓÆµ as a first-choice institution domestically and internationally;
  • Enhance alumni engagement, “expanding opportunities for students to secure meaningful internships including employment”; and 
  • Align closely with President Eduardo Peñalver’s visions for SU. 

“I would like our Board of Regents to continue to build on its forward-thinking and action-oriented approach,” says Johnson, adding that she feels honored and grateful to serve the university in this capacity. “This role gives me the opportunity to amplify the voices of students, parents, alumni and the broader community.”

Service is part of Johnson’s DNA. After a professional life in various roles in the banking industry before transitioning to sales at Nordstrom, Johnson served on numerous boards throughout the region including for the Seattle Cancer Care Alliance, UW Medical Center, YWCA of King and Snohomish Counties and the Downtown Seattle Rotary, among others. 

Johnson is a big supporter of SU Athletics, especially basketball. With SU now part of the West Coast Conference, she is looking forward to even greater excitement around the sport and athletics as a whole.

“Joining the West Coast Conference increases visibility, elevates competition and enhances the student-athlete experience,” she says. “It’s a powerful step forward that aligns our desires for national excellence both in the classroom and on the court.”

Apart from the WCC SU was selected as one of the host practice facilities in the run-up to the 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup, with some participating teams practicing on our own Championship Field.

“Being part of the World Cub on this global stage,” says Johnson, “brings prestige, excitement and visibility to our campus. It also offers our students a chance to be part of something historic.”

For those who have never or rarely attend a game or a match, Johnson says now is a great time to get in on the action and show your school spirit. 

“There’s nothing like the energy of a Redhawk game. It’s not only competition, it’s community and you will have a great time. Whether you’re an alum, student or first-time attendee, you’ll feel the spirit right away.”

When she’s not cheering the Redhawks on from the stands Johnson enjoys spending time with her sons Taylor and Terrance, traveling and reading, “three things that keep me grounded and inspired.”