Denise Johnson
Denise Johnson is a highly accomplished financial and administrative professional with a career spanning over three decades in higher education and healthcare finance. She currently serves as an Administrative Officer and Center Administrator at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, where she is instrumental in streamlining financial processes, enhancing productivity, and implementing robust solutions. Throughout her career, Denise has demonstrated a strong commitment to collaboration, problem-solving, and delivering cost-effective, holistic financial strategies that support organizational goals.
Prior to her current roles, Denise held leadership positions at Vanderbilt University for more than 24 years, including Accounting Manager and Senior Accountant, where she oversaw complex financial operations, developed internal controls, and mentored teams to drive efficiency and compliance. She also gained valuable experience earlier in her career as a Loan Receivable Supervisor at Tennessee State University and as a Legislative Auditor for the State of Tennessee, building a strong foundation in financial oversight, auditing, and accountability.
Denise holds an MBA from Tennessee State University and is completing her Doctor of Education (PhD) in Leadership and Decision Making at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. Her educational background, combined with her extensive practical experience, has equipped her with a well-rounded skill set and visionary leadership capability. Denise is passionate about using her expertise to foster efficient environments, develop best-in-class accounting protocols, and support teams in achieving both organizational and personal growth objectives.
• Social and Behavioral Research Investigators
• Research with Older Adults
• The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga- Ph.D.
• Tennessee State University- M.B.A.
• University of Memphis- B.B.A.
• Delta Sigma Theta Sorority
• Black Scholars Unlimited
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to adaptability, strong problem-solving skills, and a commitment to serving wherever I am needed. Over my career, I’ve built a reputation for managing complex systems, budgets, and teams while staying focused on solutions, and I take pride in sustaining a long and impactful career in higher education and research administration.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
One of the most meaningful lessons Denise learned was to remain open to growth and transition, even when change feels uncomfortable. This mindset allowed her to move confidently across institutions and roles while continuing her education and leadership development.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would advise young women entering this field to keep learning, ask questions boldly, and trust their ability to lead in complex environments. Success comes from consistency, preparation, and embracing responsibilities that challenge and stretch you.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The growing complexity of research funding, compliance, and institutional accountability presents significant challenges, but also opportunities to provide strategic value. Strong administrators who understand both financial systems and human dynamics are increasingly essential for organizational success.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Integrity, service, faith, and stewardship guide both my professional and personal life. At work, I prioritize accountability, collaboration, and ethical leadership, while outside of work I focus on faith, community service, mentorship, and supporting my family and those around me.