Dr. C. Douglas Johnson ’99, ’01 First to Win All Four GGC Faculty Excellence Awards

Georgia Gwinnett College’s fast-growing reputation in higher education rests in large part on the extraordinary quality of its faculty and its dedication and fulfillment of its core values. And one professor, “Dr. Doug,” as he is fondly known to his students, was honored during Convocation in September as the first faculty member to receive all four faculty excellence awards, selected by a committee comprised of faculty, staff, and students. Since 2009, Johnson has received awards recognizing excellence in scholarship and creative activities; student engagement; service; and teaching.

Johnson credits his wife and children for the sacrifices they’ve made which allow him to fully engage while at work. And he cites his family as the single most important aspect of his life, giving him the impetus to work hard, in part, to set an example for them that goals and dreams can be achieved through perseverance.

As a first generation college student who went on to earn two master’s degrees and a doctorate, Johnson was impressed when researching employment at GGC and found that his personal values aligned well with the espoused values of the institution. Now in his sixth year of teaching at GGC, he continues to be energized by his work and ability to connect with and relate to his students while impacting their lives.

His 2012 Convocation address was well received by those in attendance. Johnson recently wrote a poem “If She Could See Me Now” in memory of his mother and says he’s motivated to continue to push himself and his students in a manner that would continually make her proud of the man and the professor he has become. Based on GGC staff, faculty and student accolades, it’s safe to say she would be proud.

Johnson has an incredible success story. These awards mark the impact that his dedication to his core values have had on his family, students, and teaching. While his recognition for all four awards is unprecedented, his contributions in the many lives of his students serve as his focus. I am honored to have him as a graduate of the University and look forward to his future successes. Go Dawgs!

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