Encounter Kwanza Johnson, the Academics Coordinator for Various Programs
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Kwanza Johnson, a native of Cleveland, Ohio, has made a significant impact in the field of marine science and education. Her journey began at Bethune-Cookman University in Daytona Beach, Florida, where she completed her Integrated Environmental Science Bachelor of Science degree.
After her undergraduate studies, Johnson's path led her to the Woods Hole Partnership Education Program (PEP) in the summer of 2016. During her time with PEP, she conducted a project investigating the effects of red tide on tourism to Cape Cod. This experience not only deepened her understanding of marine science but also provided avenues for networking and furthering her knowledge of opportunities in the field.
Following her stint with PEP, Johnson began teaching sixth-grade science for Broward County Public Schools in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. However, her passion for marine science and education led her back to the field, and in January of 2018, she joined the Northeast Fisheries Science Center as the Academic Programs Coordinator.
In her role at the Northeast Fisheries Science Center, Johnson assists with on-boarding and welcoming new students to the center. She also spends most of her time during the summer preparing for the arrival of PEP students and assisting with program logistics. Johnson works with students who have been involved with NOAA's Ernest F. Hollings undergraduate scholarships, Educational Partnership Program undergraduate scholarships, and Experiential Research & Training Opportunities.
Johnson's role extends beyond the confines of the center. She helps build connections across internship programs, working with NOAA Fisheries students involved with NOAA's Cooperative Institute for the North Atlantic Region, hosted at Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, and with summer interns at the center's Woods Hole Science Aquarium and with PEP.
Johnson also attends scientific conferences to meet and encourage students to apply to the program. Her senior thesis at Bethune-Cookman University involved working with hyperspectral imagery to develop an algorithm for early algal bloom detection methods for the Indian River Lagoon.
Outside of her professional life, Johnson enjoys hobbies such as playing softball, traveling, spending time with family and friends, do-it-yourself projects, listening to music, and reading classic literature and novels from African-American/Black authors.
Despite a lack of specific information about Johnson's educational background or her career path leading to her work at the Northeast Fisheries Science Center in publicly available documents, her accomplishments and contributions to the field speak for themselves.
Science education and self-development have been integral parts of Kwanza Johnson's life, continually shaping her professional journey in marine science. She now utilizes her role at the Northeast Fisheries Science Center to foster education and provide opportunities for students to delve deeper into the field, preparing them for careers in marine science and research.
