Bryan Johnson, a distinguished leader in education and a Trevecca Ed.D. alumnus, reflects on his journey to become superintendent of Atlanta Public Schools, and how his upbringing, education and experiences have shaped his approach to leadership and service.
What does being a leader mean to you?
It means having the privilege of serving others. I had the opportunity early in life to witness my father leading as a pastor and serving people, and to see my mother leading and serving as a social worker. They set the standard I have for the way true leaders should lead. Leaders are in a position to make others better, to meet the needs of those they serve and to give credit to those on the front lines who are making the most significant impact.
Is your role as superintendent of a large school system an occupation you envisioned for yourself when you were younger?
I always knew I would be leading something significant, but becoming the superintendent of Atlanta Public Schools (APS) has been beyond what I ever imagined. APS is such a special place, and I’m deeply honored to be part of its rich tradition. Waking up every day with the opportunity to change lives is truly inspiring and meaningful to me.
How did Trevecca help prepare you for your role as a leader?
Trevecca prepared me tremendously for my leadership experiences. The quality of education I received in the Ed.D. program was top-notch. My professors were always extremely knowledgeable in their fields and grounded as leaders. Learning theory, while also observing it in action, served as a model that I have tried to emulate.
What are some of the ways you’ve seen God drawing you to this calling?
I believe God has directed and positioned me for this role. My career has presented me with some unique opportunities. I’ve had the privilege of serving as a teacher and as a school and district-level leader in Clarksville, Tennessee. I also served as superintendent in Hamilton County, Tennessee. Over the last few years, I’ve had the opportunity to work in the private sector and higher education. Each of these experiences gave me deeper context and prepared me for this role.
What advice would you give to someone looking to further their education and improve their leadership skills?
I’ve always believed that leadership is a platform to guide people toward a common goal. Good leaders carry the scent of their flock, meaning they are connected with those they serve and understand their needs. This has been a key strategy I’ve tried to ensure is part of my daily work. I think it’s important to serve well where you are by becoming fully aware of the needs in your current environment and any future environments where you may have influence.