Dr. Charles Duane Johnson

Dr. Charles D. Johnson was a towering figure in academia, renowned for his visionary leadership, tireless work ethic, and commitment to excellence. He grew up in a hardworking, blue-collar family in Michigan and was the first in his family to attend college, ultimately earning a BS, MS, and PhD. His determination to pursue more drove him throughout his entire career.

After earning his PhD in Social Psychology from the University of Illinois Champaign-Urbana, he embarked on a remarkable academic journey. He was offered a position at every university he applied to including Yale University. His first job was at University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee where he stayed until being offered a position at Michigan State. At Michigan State University, he quickly rose through the ranks, becoming one of the youngest full professors in the university’s history, a testament to his brilliance and dedication.

While at Michigan State, Dr. Johnson’s research transcended the confines of academia, driving tangible policy transformations. His groundbreaking work in maternal and child health helped to reshape healthcare access in Michigan, culminating in the establishment of prenatal healthcare as a fundamental right. The Michigan Legislature honored him with its highest civilian award—a recognition of the profound and lasting impact of his contributions to public welfare.

In 1986, Dr. Johnson made a pivotal decision to join Texas A&M University, where he was tasked with shaping the newly formed Public Policy Research Institute (PPRI). Under his leadership, PPRI rapidly transformed a small locally focused center into a nationally recognized research powerhouse. Dr. Johnson’s vision was clear: he wanted to create an institution that didn’t just study policy but made a real difference in the lives of people. “If you vote, go to court, or go to school, we have affected your experience, hopefully for the better,” he would often say, reflecting the institute’s far-reaching influence.

His commitment to the underdog was not only a theme of his scholarship but a driving force behind his practical endeavors. Recognizing the unique challenges faced by small communities and non-profits, Dr. Johnson founded the Center for Community Support (CCS), a transformative initiative that offered free grant-writing assistance and funding searches. Under his leadership, CCS secured over $41 million in grants, enabling local organizations to build vital infrastructure and improve services for communities across Texas. He was proud to say that for every dollar that TAMU provided to PPRI, 8 dollars of benefit came back to the people of Texas. 

Dr. Johnson’s contributions did not go unnoticed. He was named the inaugural Regents Professor—the highest academic distinction within the Texas A&M University System—and received the prestigious Bush Faculty Excellence Award. His influence extended beyond Texas, with international recognition as a Fellow of the Doha International Institute for Family Studies and Development in Qatar. He was a frequent presenter at the United Nations, where his work was lauded by then-Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon as a model for global policy reform. Additionally, he was honored with the Harvard Kennedy School Innovations in American Government Award, underscoring the nationwide significance of his work.

Dr. Johnson’s career was defined by his relentless pursuit of excellence across its many facets. Through his teaching, research, and leadership, he shaped policies that touched the lives of countless individuals, leaving an indelible mark on people of Michigan, Texas and the world. His legacy will continue to inspire those who strive to make a meaningful difference.

Charles was born on April 17, 1944 in Michigan to Lesley and JoAnn Johnson. He was married to his wife Margart L. Johnson for nearly 60 years, and together they shared a long and happy life, and they had one son, Charles D. Johnson Jr, who followed his father into academia. Charles was preceded in death by both his parents and his youngest brother Terry. Charles is survived by his brother Dennis, Charles’ son, and two grandchildren who he doted over, Charles T. Johnson, and Tessa Kilgannon.

Outside of his professional accomplishments, Charles was known for love of family, his hobbies, which he could be found working on most nights, and his faith.