Isabella Bank Institute for Entrepreneurship

Central Michigan University Vice President for Student Affairs Renee’ Watson announced the appointment of Erica Johnson as interim assistant vice president for student affairs. In this role, Johnson will oversee several units within the student affairs division, including the Mary Ellen Brandell Volunteer Center, Office of Residence Life, Sarah R. Opperman Leadership Institute, CMU Counseling Center, Student Disability Services and more. She also will serve as the division’s liaison for international students.

“Erica deeply cares about the personal and professional growth of not only students but also the staff within her purview,” Watson said. “She believes in the university’s efforts to foster an environment of diversity, equity and inclusion, as well as a sense of belonging.”

Watson also noted Johnson’s track record for providing cocurricular programs that are nationally recognized for excellence, including Alternative Breaks.

Johnson joined the CMU community in April 2012 and currently serves as director of the volunteer center, a position she has held since 2019. Previously, she served as the center’s assistant director and coordinator of Greek Life in the Office of Student Activities and Involvement. During her tenure at CMU, Johnson also served as chair of the divisional professional development committee, creating monthly learning opportunities for professional and administrative staff in the student affairs division.

Johnson said she was thrilled to join the leadership team for the Division of Student Affairs as it moves forward in new directions under Watson’s leadership.

“I am looking forward to collaborating with campus and community partners to ensure students have what they need to be successful at CMU and to promote the innovative, co-curricular learning opportunities offered across campus that ensure our graduates have life-long career success and are engaged members of their community when they cross our graduation stage,” Johnson said.

Johnson earned a bachelor’s degree in professional accountancy from Saginaw Valley State University and a master’s degree in college student personnel from Miami University. She is currently pursuing a doctoral degree in educational leadership at CMU.