.250 Johanna Osburn

Ever since my very first day at The Center, Johanna has been exceptional as both my supervisor and the leader of our entire department. She is the epitome of someone who “walks the walk,” as she is constantly working tirelessly to support her direct reports, the team as a whole, and the entire community. For the last 2.5 years, I genuinely have learned something new from her every day that we have worked together.

Perhaps what I admire most about Johanna is her ability to set clear expectations and give actual supportive feedback at a helpful frequency (aka not just once a year). She is encouraging and compassionate, as well as direct and straightforward. I’m constantly inspired by how she handles difficult situations with a calm energy and a clear mind. Today was my first day back from some vacation and I found it incredibly refreshing to know that Johanna not only supported me in taking this time to breathe and recharge, but also the fact that she was there to help with anything while I was out. She is a true role model when it comes to her diligence, her wonderful sense of humor, and her ability to balance everything on her plate while not taking life too seriously.

Johanna, thank you for helping me grow and for always being there to listen. Thank you for your kindness and leadership and for always standing up for those you care about. Thank you for your wit and for always knowing how to make me and the rest of the team laugh. Thank you for steering us through the last year+ when everything was unknown, constantly changing, and extremely taxing and stressful. Thank you for being such a positive example for me and so many others when it comes to how to work hard and treat people with respect in the process. Thank you, Johanna, for being you.

-BD