A native of Cheyenne, Wyoming, Dr. Olenda E. Johnson is Professor of Strategic Leadership and Leader Development at the U. S. Naval War College – a graduate-level institution for highly select military officers and government civilians. As a lead contributor in the College of Leadership & Ethics (CLE), Dr. Johnson advises Navy senior leaders, develops strategy, and facilitates team efforts. In her primary role, she leads her team in developing and teaching a leadership course for 2-Star Navy admirals and senior government executives. Olenda also works with other military units (e.g., U.S. Army Special Forces Command) to support their leader development.
A passionate teacher and educator, Olenda thrives on helping others learn. She is an oft-invited speaker at national events to include the National League for Nursing, the Independent Blue Cross Foundation, Generation W, U. S. Air Force Academy National Character & Leadership Symposium, and DiversityInc CEO Forum among others. As an invited speaker and facilitator, Olenda shares her experiences and knowledge with people in other organizations to instill in them the courage and confidence to lead in their unique circumstance. She is driven to help others value themselves, their talents, and the impact they can have on their communities, their work, and their families.
Dr. Johnson is a recipient of numerous honors and awards to include the prestigious Army Commander’s Medal for Public Service and the University of North Carolina (UNC) Board of Governors’ Excellence in Teaching Award, the highest teaching honor bestowed upon faculty in the UNC system. Most recently she was honored by the Muhammad Ali Center as one of its Daughters of Greatness for her commitment to advancing opportunities for others.
Olenda earned her Ph.D. in Organizational Behavior from the University of Pittsburgh, and both a B. S. and MBA from Florida A&M University. Prior to joining the Naval War College, she was a tenured professor at North Carolina A&T State University. She held previous visiting faculty appointments at the U.S. Army War College and the U.S. Air Force Academy. Dr. Johnson also holds an appointment as adjunct faculty at Victoria Business School, Wellington, New Zealand. Mostly, Olenda finds the greatest joy in serving others – whether professionally, within her faith community, or among family and friends.
