Crossroads News

Crossroads Hires Founding Director of Equity & Justice Institute

Derric J. Johnson appointed to oversee groundbreaking K-12 program.
Derric J. Johnson has been named the founding director of the Crossroads School Equity & Justice Institute, effective Aug. 23.
 
Under Derric’s leadership, the Equity & Justice Institute will develop a cohesive and comprehensive K-12 approach to social justice education and activism, solidifying Crossroads’ founding commitment to the greater community. The Institute—scheduled to roll out this school year—will help students find meaningful solutions to the challenges our world faces, including racism, sexism, poverty, war, environmental degradation, educational inequities, religious persecution and genocide.
 
As a member of the senior leadership team at Crossroads, Derric will expand the School’s efforts to have a positive impact locally, nationally and internationally by creating partnerships with nonprofit organizations; supporting student and School-wide community action; revolutionizing the concepts of individual and institutional community service; and incubating new initiatives and even nonprofits to help provide solutions to some of the challenges facing our communities. The founding director position and the Institute are fully endowed through the support of generous donors.
 
“I could not be more thrilled about the prospect of establishing an Institute focused on service learning for students with the intent of facilitating good in the world,” Derric says. “I’m appreciative of Crossroads for being bold, innovative and willing to extend this Institute’s reach beyond campus.”
 
Derric arrives at Crossroads after serving as senior deputy for public safety and justice for the Office of Los Angeles County Board Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas, where his achievements centered on myriad legislative and systemic reform efforts. He also brings extensive experience in developing and implementing programs for nonprofits, including the California Community Foundation, the MLK Community Health Foundation, the Alliance for Children's Rights and the Community Oriented Correctional Health Services in Oakland.
 
“For more than 20 years, Derric has built his career around supporting and developing pathways of access for underrepresented groups,” says Head of School Bob Riddle. “He has a passion for equity and civil rights, and he will continue to be an agent for social change in his new role. We are thrilled about Derric joining Crossroads and very fortunate to have him.”
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