Lunch with a Leader | College of DuPage Walter Johnson

Description

NACC's monthly Lunch with a Leader series highlights one local Leader in a friendly, sit-down atmosphere. Sit side-by-side community leaders and fellow chamber members around a king's table as we learn about the professional and personal journey of our leaders over a plated meal. Registration is required as we are unable to accommodate walk-ins with limited seating.

THIS MONTH'S LEADER

College of DuPage

Walter J. Johnson, employed at College of DuPage since April 2018, and serving as Vice President of Institutional Advancement since January 2020, has a career accented by a variety of leadership and public service roles in the Greater Chicago area.

In addition to his current position, Walter has been an active member of the Board of Directors for Innovation DuPage since September 2022, where he contributes to the organization's mission to foster entrepreneurship and innovation in the community.

Walter was appointed by former COD president Dr. Ann Rondeau to assist the VP of Institutional Advancement in developing a strategic fundraising and alumni engagement plan. He was hired full time as Vice President in 2020. Since joining COD, donor retention has been above the national average, an alumni and engagement strategy has been activated, college foundation relations have improved, and grant income has more than doubled to $15.3 million dollars.

Prior to joining College of DuPage, Walter served as President and COO at Chicago Hope Academy, leading the acquisition of the organization’s West Campus in the Lawndale community of Chicago. Before then, as Executive Director of Project C.U.R.E. Chicago he established a 55,000 sq. ft. distribution center for medical supplies and equipment that is donated to hospitals and clinics in developing countries and countries in crisis around the world.

Walter also served as CEO of the YMCAs of Northwestern DuPage County, Director of Athletics at North Central College and was recognized as Athletics Director of the Year by the National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics.  In addition, Walter was elected and served as Chair for the NCAA Division III Management Council, where he received the NCAA Distinguished Service Award.

Walter’s commitment to public service also includes being appointed as a Commissioner on the Board of Fire and Police for the City of Naperville, served as President for the Exchange Club of Naperville, member of the Rotary Club of Naperville, a Paul Harris fellow, and was also a Trustee for Wheaton Academy and Chicago Hope Academy.

Walter’s long list of honors and achievements is highlighted by him being awarded the Chicago United Way Innovative Program Award, co-founding the Naperville Jazz Festival, singing the national anthem at spring training for the Chicago White Sox and at the inaugural Naperville 911 Ceremony. 

Originally from Toledo, Ohio, Walter lives in Naperville, Illinois, and has three amazing adult children, all college graduates, one of whom is a COD alum. He also has two awesome grandchildren.

By registering and attending this event, you grant the Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce (NACC) the right to use your image and likeness in photographs, videos, and any other media captured during the event. You understand and agree that these materials may be used for promotional purposes, including but not limited to, social media, websites, and other marketing materials produced by or for the NACC.