STCC remembers community leader Ronn Johnson on MLK Jr. Day
Ronn Johnson, holding a microphone, stands with Tracy Chappell, left, and Jynai McDonald, right, a STCC trustee. In the background is Veronica McNair.
At Springfield Technical Community College, we are deeply saddened over the loss of Ronn Johnson, a lifelong advocate for justice and community leader.
Mr. Johnson served as executive director for Martin Luther King Jr. Family Services in Springfield and passed away on what would have been Dr. King’s 93rd birthday. As the Springfield Republican reported, friends and colleagues of Mr. Johnson said it was “fitting that he died on the birthday of the hero he often emulated.”
Mr. Johnson was a husband, father and friend to many. A champion of health equity, an advocate for youth and a great partner for community change, he was a thoughtful and strong communicator and “inspirational personality,” as his friend Henry Thomas III told the Republican. Mr. Thomas is the president and CEO of the Urban League.
Ronn Johnson
Mr. Johnson made a meaningful difference in the lives of so many in our community, including past and current STCC students, faculty and staff. He understood that many in the community did not have the opportunities he had and became a mentor to many.
Interviewed on Jan. 5 for an STCC article about recipients of a social justice award, Mr. Johnson said they embodied the spirit of Dr. King’s quote, “Life's most persistent and urgent question is: 'What are you doing for others?”
There’s no doubt Mr. Johnson took that quote to heart and strived throughout his life to apply Dr. King’s teachings. He will dearly be missed.
Today, as we reflect on the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr., we ask to keep Mr. Johnson’s family and friends in our thoughts and prayers. May Ronn Johnson rest in peace and may his legacy live on in the Greater Springfield community.
A tribute to Mr. Johnson has been incorporated into an event today celebrating the life of Martin Luther King. Jr. The event will reflect on Mr. Johnson’s contributions to the community.
Join Martin Luther King Family Services and Community Music School of Springfield for the Free Virtual Event - "Standing Together In Hope We Rise." To be a part of the event, access the livestream at communitymusicschool.com. Streaming starts today at 11 a.m.
The event will feature "hundreds of youth, community leaders, and artists of spoken word, dance, music, and theater to reflect on the enduring legacy of Dr. King and the continued struggle for social justice in communities across the country."