Herman and Dorothy Johnson Residence HallStudent residence is named in honor and memory of two higher education supporters

The University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC) recently announced the name of its next student residence facility – The Herman and Dorothy Johnson Residence Hall – after two of its well-respected supporters. The name was approved by the UM System Board of Curators on Feb. 6 and is the first UMKC building named after African Americans.

“The Johnsons, who were dedicated supporters of UMKC and its students, started a scholarship for African American students in 1987,” said Leo Morton, UMKC Chancellor. “And, with the addition of this new residence hall, the Johnsons are again supporting students – approximately 320 additional students will be able to enjoy campus living, which leads to a more successful college experience.”

The $17 million, four-story building – currently under construction – will contain 323 beds and feature eight 41-person communities. The building includes social and study lounges, kitchens, music practice rooms and a classroom. The facility will be LEED Certified. For additional details, see the UMKC Master Plan Web site.

“On behalf of my parents and the Johnson/Hodge family, we are truly overwhelmed by the honor and by the continued recognition from the UMKC family,” said Tara Johnson, daughter of Herman and Dorothy. “My parents were very firm believers in giving back and providing assistance to others. Opening doors and building bridges for those in need was always the driving force in their lives. They would be honored – yet humbled – by the Herman and Dorothy Johnson Residence Hall. As their family, we are looking forward to helping the first residents move in this fall.”

Herman and Dorothy Johnson were actively involved at UMKC, as well as in the Kansas City community. Established in fall 1987, the UMKC Herman Johnson African-American Scholarship was the first scholarship created to increase college opportunities for African-American students, providing a total of approximately $500,000 since its inception. During this current academic year, the scholarship is assisting 25 students. Herman was the recipient of the Chancellor’s Medal in 1990, a member of the following: Board of Trustee (and an Emeritus Trustee), Flarsheim Society Charter, School of Medicine Board and Bloch School of Business Dean’s Advisory Board.

Dorothy Johnson was a part-time professor in the UMKC Department of Psychiatry and the First Advisory Council Chair of the Women’s Foundation. The Johnsons were founders of the Local Investment Commission (LINC) and served on numerous civic groups.

The University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC), one of four University of Missouri campuses, is a public university serving more than 14,000 undergraduate, graduate and professional students. Celebrating 75 years, UMKC engages with the community and economy based on a four-part mission: life and health sciences; visual and performing arts; urban issues and education; and a vibrant learning and campus life experience.


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