Finalist: Ronnetta Johnson

Chief Executive Officer
Waymakers

Ronnetta Johnson is an esteemed nonprofit professional with over 35 years of experience in leadership. She currently serves as CEO of Waymakers, an Orange County nonprofit dedicated to providing interventions for vulnerable children, individuals, and families facing challenging circumstances. With a master’s degree in organizational leadership and a bachelor’s degree in sociology, she brings a wealth of knowledge to her role. Johnson’s visionary approach has led to remarkable progress, including a successful rebranding effort, expanded grants and contracts, and a focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion. Despite the challenges of the pandemic, she ensured the agency’s services continued remotely while fostering the staff’s well-being and professional growth. Johnson’s commitment extends beyond Waymakers as she serves in various leadership roles for statewide organizations and contributes to community development and mentoring future leaders.