U.S. Rep. Bill Johnson, who represents Ohio’s 6th Congressional District, was honored with Troy University’s 16th Distinguished Leadership on Saturday during the University’s football game against Akron.
The award honors the achievements of TROY alumni and friends who have distinguished themselves through exemplary work, philanthropy, leadership and service to their profession, community and alma mater. Dr. Jack Hawkins, Jr., Chancellor of Troy University, presented the award to Rep. Johnson on the field at Veterans Memorial Stadium during a break in the action in the first quarter of play.
“For me, TROY is where it all began,” Rep. Johnson said. “When I came here, I had been in the Air Force for six years, and at that time, I didn’t know much about Troy University. What I found here was a special place that helped turn a young boy into a man. TROY continues to be a special place for me, and for members of my family who have earned their degrees here. It is truly an honor to be back here today and to be recognized in this manner.”
Since first being elected to Congress in 2010, the 1979 Summa Cum Laude graduate of TROY has focused on creating jobs, improving veterans’ services and making the federal government more effective, efficient and accountable to the American people. Seven bills authored by Johnson were signed into law during his first two terms.
Johnson was elected to his fourth term representing the people of eastern and southeastern Ohio in 2016. He currently serves on the House Energy and Commerce Committee and the House Budget Committee. Additionally, he is a member of the House Shale Caucus.
Johnson entered the U.S. Air Force in 1973, and retired as a Lieutenant Colonel after a career of more than 26 years. During his tenure in the Air Force, Johnson was recognized as a Distinguished Graduate from the Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps, Squadron Officers School and Air Command and Staff College. He received the Air Force Meritorious Service Medal, the Air Force Commendation Medal, and the National Defense Service Medal. As director of the Air Force’s Chief Information Officer Staff at U.S. Special Operations Command, Johnson worked with senior congressional and Secretary of Defense representatives, as well as top leaders within the various U.S. intelligence communities, to ensure America’s Special Operations forces were adequately equipped to carry out national security missions.
Following military service, Johnson co-founded Johnson-Schley Management Group, Inc., an information technology consulting company. In 2003, he formed J2 Business Solutions, Inc., where he focused on providing executive level IT support as a defense contractor to the U.S. military. From 2006 to 2010, Johnson served as chief information officer for a global manufacturer of highly engineered electronic components for the transportation industry.
Johnson and his wife LeeAnn, currently reside in Marietta, Ohio, with a son Nathan. He is also the proud parent of three grown children and is a grandfather of six.
