Gwen Johnson

Gwen Johnson is a nonprofit leader, human resources professional, and civil rights advocate whose career has been defined by a commitment to justice, equity, and community empowerment. As the founder and CEO of the S.H.A.R.P. Foundation (Society Harmonizing Against Racial Profiling and Society Harmonizing and Rallying for Peace), she transformed a deeply personal family experience into a mission to support individuals whose civil rights have been violated. Established in 2018, the foundation works to combat racial profiling, advocate for victims of injustice, and foster stronger relationships between communities, law enforcement, faith-based organizations, and public institutions. Guided by the belief that every individual deserves dignity and equal protection under the law, Johnson has become a respected voice in grassroots advocacy and systemic reform.

Alongside her nonprofit leadership, Johnson serves as People Operations Manager at CEDA (Community and Economic Development Association of Cook County), where she helps shape the employee experience for an organization serving hundreds of employees and thousands of residents through programs focused on housing, energy assistance, WIC services, financial literacy, and youth employment. Her background also includes human resources and recruiting roles with The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company and Higher Staffing and Recruiting Services, giving her extensive expertise in talent acquisition, organizational development, employee engagement, and nonprofit operations. Throughout her career, she has championed the philosophy that trust, integrity, and doing the right thing are the cornerstones of effective leadership.

Johnson's impact extends beyond organizational leadership through her advocacy, public speaking, and community partnerships. Working alongside municipalities, public safety agencies, churches, and grassroots organizations, she strives to bridge divides and create lasting solutions that promote justice and opportunity. Her dedication to community transformation has earned recognition, including the Community Transformation Award from the Pulse Institute in Detroit. Whether leading the S.H.A.R.P. Foundation, overseeing people operations, or mentoring the next generation through youth-focused initiatives, Gwen Johnson continues to inspire meaningful change by turning personal adversity into a lifelong commitment to justice and hope.