By Jordan Beach
Jamie Johnston has lived in Georgia for just two years, and she’s already making an impact on her community.
After relocating to Canton from Wisconsin with her husband, Dana, Johnston felt she had to find her footing as a professional after moving to a new, unknown area. She jumped in with both feet and has been making an impact on Reinhardt University and the greater Cherokee County community ever since.
On Thursday morning, Reinhardt’s assistant dean of students was recognized for her efforts and involvement and was named a Cherokee Chamber of Commerce Top 10 in 10 Young Professional to Watch.
“The Top 10 in 10 initiative is designed to cultivate and showcase exceptional Cherokee County young professionals,” said Pam Carnes, Chamber president and CEO.
Johnston said this award helped her to feel “grounded” in Cherokee County.
“When I found out I was selected for the Top 10 in 10, I honestly was shocked,” said Johnston. “I know there are many fabulous professionals who live in Cherokee County and the fact that they thought I was one of the top 10, well that to me was pretty fantastic.”
Johnston was nominated for the award by Erika Neldner, Reinhardt director of marketing and communications and a 2012 Top 10 in 10 award winner, because of her infectious positivity, dedication to teamwork and community-minded efforts.
“Previous Top 10 in 10 award winners are asked to share the honor by nominating someone for the award. This year, Jamie was at the front of my mind. She brings so much to Reinhardt University and Cherokee County, and has made such a great impact,” Neldner said. “She is definitely a young professional to watch grow and succeed.”
To be selected, nominees must provide letters of recommendation – two of Johnston’s letters were penned by President Kina Mallard and Dean of Students Walter May.
“I was so very honored and humbled by the kind things they had to say, and really felt a great deal of support from Reinhardt,” said Johnston. “For me, this award has given me confidence that as a professional I am making progress, being recognized, but also receiving the support of the University where I work and the county in which I live.”
Johnston joined Reinhardt University two years ago as Student Activities Council advisor, and shortly after her first year, she was promoted her current position. Originally from Shiocton, Wisconsin, Johnston previously worked in the Division of Student Affairs for Cleveland State University and Defiance College. Johnston holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a Master of Education. She and her husband live in Canton with their two furry children, Reese and Emma Jo, both chocolate labs. She enjoys pre-dawn workouts and spending time with her family
The Cherokee County Chamber, in partnership with Enjoy! Cherokee Magazine, coordinates this recognition program, focusing on Cherokee County residents between the ages of 20-40 who are considered to be potential future leaders.
This is the second year in a row a Reinhardt University young professional has been honored with the Top 10 in 10 award. Falany Performing Arts Center Director Jessica Akers was bestowed the award in 2018.
