Her Story
About Dena
Dena R. Johnston is the Executive Director of the Lawrence Schools Foundation, a nonprofit organization that partners with Lawrence Public Schools to enhance educational opportunities and address the evolving needs of students and educators throughout the district. Since joining the Foundation in 2015, she has provided strategic leadership focused on building strong community partnerships, securing philanthropic support, and expanding programs that create lasting impact. Under her direction, the Foundation provides classroom grants that empower teachers with innovative resources, awards more than $75,000 in scholarships annually to graduating high school seniors, and supports students facing hardship by helping provide essential needs such as beds, clothing, food, and other critical resources. Her commitment to ensuring every student has the opportunity to succeed has strengthened the Foundation's role as a vital community partner.
Before transitioning into nonprofit leadership, Johnston built an accomplished career in healthcare spanning more than two decades. She began her professional journey as a nurse before advancing into executive leadership with OrthoKansas, where she served as Chief Operating Officer and Administrator for a leading orthopedic practice for nearly 10 years. In that role, she oversaw clinical operations, physician recruitment, human resources, strategic planning, marketing, business development, and community relations while leading multidisciplinary teams and driving organizational growth. Her healthcare experience provided a strong foundation in servant leadership, operational excellence, and strategic management, skills that have seamlessly translated into her work supporting public education and nonprofit advancement.
Johnston is widely recognized for her collaborative leadership style, unwavering commitment to service, and passion for strengthening communities through education. She has cultivated meaningful partnerships with donors, businesses, civic leaders, and educational organizations to expand opportunities for students, recognize outstanding educators, and develop innovative programs that prepare young people for future success. A graduate of Kansas State University with additional nursing education from Manhattan Area Technical College, Johnston combines healthcare expertise, executive leadership, and nonprofit experience to create meaningful, measurable impact. Her career reflects a dedication to empowering others, building stronger communities, and ensuring every student has access to the resources and opportunities needed to thrive.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Dena
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the values instilled in me by my parents, who demonstrated the importance of volunteering, giving back to the community, and leading with compassion. Their example inspired me to embrace opportunities with confidence, step outside my comfort zone, and approach every challenge with purpose. I believe that living a life of service and helping others create meaningful, positive change has been the foundation of both my personal fulfillment and professional success.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I have ever received was to never let someone else's passion become my own. That guidance encouraged me to pursue a career path that aligned with my own purpose and values rather than following the expectations of others. It ultimately inspired my transition from healthcare into nonprofit leadership, where I have the opportunity to create a broader impact, lead meaningful initiatives, and continue serving others on a larger scale.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering the industry is to never be intimidated by working in a male-dominated field. Have the confidence to take opportunities, even when they push you outside your comfort zone, because growth often comes from embracing challenges. Believe in your abilities, demonstrate your value through your work, and don't hesitate to seize opportunities that allow you to learn, lead, and make a meaningful impact.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the greatest opportunities in my field is strengthening public education through meaningful donor partnerships, strategic fundraising, and securing grants that expand resources and create lasting impact for students and communities. At the same time, the industry faces challenges such as uncertainty surrounding state and federal funding, the need to remain politically neutral while serving diverse stakeholders and maintaining a healthy work-life balance in a mission-driven environment. Successfully navigating these challenges requires adaptability, collaboration, and a steadfast commitment to the organization's mission.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me in both my professional and personal life are honesty, transparency, leadership, loyalty, passion, and coachability. I believe that being a good human being is the foundation of meaningful relationships and lasting success. Character, integrity, and a willingness to learn and grow are far more valuable than talent alone, as they foster trust, inspire collaboration, and create opportunities to make a positive impact on others.
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