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Meet Youngstown State University's President
Bill Johnson
President
The Youngstown State Commitment
President Bill Johnson began his term as Youngstown State University's 10th president on January 22, 2024. The YSU Board of Trustees confirmed Johnson's appointment at a special meeting November 21, 2023.
President Bill Johnson
Bill Johnson brings a wealth of leadership experience spanning impactful roles in various industry sectors, from a distinguished 26+ year military career, to founding and leading high-tech business ventures, to serving as a Chief Information Officer for a global publicly traded manufacturing company, to a 13-year career serving as a Member of Congress. His commitment to service, strategic vision, and collaborative leadership aligns with the transformative needs of Youngstown State University.
First-Lady LeeAnn Johnson
LeeAnn Johnson was born in Anaheim, California, the youngest child and only daughter of four. LeeAnn holds passion for community service and leadership, serving in various community service and volunteer roles throughout the community. Married to Youngstown State University President, Bill Johnson, she is the mother of 20-year-old son and Youngstown State University student, Nathan.
Youngstown State University submits first Carnegie application
A Youngstown State University team submitted its first Carnegie application this past spring, capturing community-engagement among our students, faculty, and staff. The Carnegie Foundation Elective Classification for Community Engagement is awarded to campuses that demonstrate engagement that is deep, pervasive, and integrated. Public announcement of community-engaged designated campuses will be made in January 2026.
Efforts continue from across campus to meet community needs. For instance, more than 50 students, faculty, and staff packed and delivered food alongside community partner United Way of Youngstown and Mahoning Valley to feed more than 450 families in our community.
Presidential Conversations Archives
President Bill Johnson launched the "Presidential Conversations" series, a platform designed to foster meaningful dialogue and thought leadership across campus, in March 2025. This series features a variety of initiatives, including the bringing of renowned Thought Leaders to campus, hosting campus-wide conversations on critical topics and a Presidential 5-Minute Series airing weekly on WYSU.