Joan and George Johnson
Obama Presidential Center Honoree
Space Name: Joan and George Johnson Program Room | Home Court | Level 2
The Johnsons were trailblazing business leaders and philanthropists who reshaped Black identity and entrepreneurship in America. As founders of Johnson Products Company, they launched the haircare brand Afro Sheen, sponsored the groundbreaking television program Soul Train, and became the first Black-owned company listed on the American Stock Exchange. Throughout their lives, they generously supported community services, education, the arts, and civic organizations. Their example continues to inspire new generations of entrepreneurs.
Legacy on Campus
Home Court
The Joan and George Johnson Program Room, located in Home Court, honors the ground-breaking achievements of the Johnsons. The Program Room is a space for young, burgeoning entrepreneurs to pursue their own path of excellence.
Futures Series
Discover our series designed exclusively to support teens exploring career pathways through intimate conversations with accomplished global leaders.
Meet More Honorees
Through the honoree naming initiative at the Obama Presidential Center, we are partnering with our donors to celebrate a part of the history in which the Obama story is so deeply rooted by associating a named space with a hero, moment, or person "on whose shoulders we stand"—an honoree who made the Obamas’ story possible.
Meet More Honorees