Innovations in Community Leadership Award Presentation: Matt Bishop, Director, J.W. Fanning Institute for Leadership Development
This year, the Fanning Institute is honored to recognize the late Superior Court Judge Horace J. Johnson, Jr. as the recipient of the Innovations in Community Leadership Award for his commitment to public service and making a difference in his hometown of Newton County. From being a part of integrating the Newton County school system in the late 1960s to serving as both the first Black attorney and Black Superior Court judge in Newton County, he spent his life at the forefront of affecting positive change in his community. As a judge, he fought for justice, fairness and compassion, starting parental accountability courts in Newton and Walton counties and opening a treatment court for veterans. As a leader, he dedicated his time and energies to serving others and his community. He mentored future generations, starting a mentoring program in the county school system and working to start a Boys and Girls Club in his hometown.
In 2017, the Fanning Institute established the Innovations in Community Leadership Award to recognize individuals or programs who have moved beyond traditional community leadership programming through innovative practices, partnerships and activities that better serve participants and their communities. When selecting the award recipient, several criteria – including need, creativity, implementation and impact – are taken into account. Granting this award showcases these innovations and the dedicated leaders who strive to make their communities stronger.
Recorded on Feb. 18, 2021