Breon Johnson

Faces of IUPUI: Breon Johnson

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Breon Johnson works at the Black Student Union desk. Photo by Liz Kaye, IU Communications

Breon Johnson, IUPUI senior in the School of Liberal Arts, hails from the southeast side of Fort Wayne, Indiana, but IUPUI is his home. Since his arrival in Indianapolis and at IUPUI, Johnson has immersed himself in the campus community, taking advantage of the many opportunities to get involved and stay engaged, including performing on the IUPUI Talent Stage during the 50th Anniversary Fall Kickoff Celebration last August.

"My favorite part about being an IUPUI student is the community. There are so many places and spaces around campus that really help build and foster a strong sense of community, and I think those places are necessary for students to be successful and able to thrive," Johnson said.

A first-generation college student, Johnson will graduate in May with a general studies degree, a minor in music and a certificate in health administration. During his collegiate career at IUPUI, Johnson has served in more than a dozen different roles on and around campus. These positions include — but are certainly not limited to — outreach ambassador for underrepresented populations in the Study Abroad Office, leadership positions within the Black Student Union, mentor for the Diversity Enrichment and Achievement Program, and peer educator for the IUPUI Multicultural Center where he promotes multicultural and social justice education through dialogue and student-led workshops.

Breon Johnson
Breon Johnson chats with Eric Williams, Director of the Diversity Enrichment and Achievement Program at IUPUI.
Breon Johnson chats with some peers in the Diversity Enrichment and Achievement Program office.

From top: Johnson in Taylor Hall; Johnson chats with Director of the Diversity Enrichment and Achievement Program (DEAP) Eric Williams; Johnson talks to some of his friends at the DEAP office. Photos by Liz Kaye, IU Communications

"Breon is just a remarkable human being. In his role as a Multicultural Peer Educator, he has helped to transform IUPUI for the better. He is thoughtful, compassionate, and steadfast in his commitment to social change through education. His leadership impact will resonate on this campus for generations," said Dennis Rudnick, Associate Director of Multicultural Education and Research.

This fall, Johnson plans to pursue a master's degree in Higher Education and Student Affairs. Ultimately, he hopes to put his academic, professional, and leadership experience to work in a university setting to advocate for, support, and develop policies and initiatives that create and strengthen the climate for success for college students.