Born on January 17, 1934, in the vibrant city of New Orleans, Judith Anne Guillaume Johnson was a woman of remarkable character and unwavering determination. Her journey was filled with triumphs, sacrifices, and a passion for education that touched the lives of many.
Growing up as the youngest of six siblings, Judith displayed an exceptional aptitude for learning from an early age. Her academic prowess shone brightly during her time at Valena C. Jones Elementary and Gilbert Academy High School, where she made the honor roll consistently. After graduating from Gilbert Academy High School in just three years, she embarked on her higher education journey at Xavier University of Louisiana.
Throughout her four years at Xavier, Judith's commitment to excellence never waned, and she maintained her place on the Dean's list. Her academic achievements were recognized with a prestigious fellowship, allowing her to earn a Master's Degree plus 30 additional hours from Loyola University New Orleans.
On July 9, 1955, Judith married the love of her life, Irving Joseph Johnson, Jr., and together, they celebrated fifty years of marital bliss in 2005. Two beautiful children, Judy Lynn Johnson-White and Irving Joseph Johnson, III, were born into their loving union. Judith's professional path led her to the Paul Lawrence Dunbar Elementary School in the Orleans Public School System. For an incredible 38 years, she served as a dedicated second-grade and kindergarten teacher, touching the lives of countless young minds. Her passion and devotion to teaching earned her recognition as the Elementary School Teacher of the Year for the State of Louisiana.
Beyond her contributions in the classroom, Judith actively engaged in educational organizations and served as a respected leader in the United Teachers of New Orleans (UNTO). Her roles as UTNO Building Representative, Chair of the Kindergarten Chapter, Chair of the Retirees Chapter, and Board member of the UNTO Credit Union exemplified her commitment to her
profession and colleagues.
Throughout her life, Judith maintained a strong connection to Alpha Kappa Alpha (AKA) Sorority, Inc., being initiated into the sisterhood on December 13, 1951. This love of AKA was shared with her daughter, Judy, who also became a member. Their joint involvement extended to regional and national conferences, including the centennial celebration of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. in Washington, D.C. Judith's dedication to AKA was evident in her lifelong involvement and leadership roles, earning her the title of Golden Soror during a touching 50th-anniversary celebration.
As a Founders Day speaker for the Omicron Lambda Omega Chapter and guest speaker at induction ceremonies, Judith left an indelible impact on the sorority's members. Beyond AKA, Judith supported her husband and son's Greek life as well. She served as the National Treasurer of the Silhouettes of the Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., and as a local Chapter President of the Silhouettes of the Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., New Orleans Alumni.
Judith was a woman of deep faith, finding solace in her devotion to the Catholic Church. She was an active member of St. Jude the Apostle Catholic Church in Baton Rouge, LA, and shared a moment of immense joy when she attended the canonization of Saint Katharine Drexel in Rome, alongside her beloved husband.
Judith Anne Guillaume Johnson's life was defined by her love for her family, her dedication to education, and her unwavering commitment to her community and faith. On October 1, 2018, after a valiant 3 1⁄2 year battle with breast cancer, Judith peacefully passed away, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire. She leaves behind a legacy that will forever inspire those who follow in her footsteps.
Judith's smile and zest for life will be cherished and remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her. As her memory lives on, the Judith Johnson Scholarship aims to continue her passion for learning and leave a lasting impact on future generations of scholars, just as Judith did throughout her remarkable life.
Application Link: Please click the button above to apply by Friday, September 8, 2023, 5 pm cst.