Darrin Johnson, associate director of Employee Recruitment and Development, is the
2026 recipient of the Spirit of Martin Luther King, Jr. Award.
Darrin Johnson has dedicated a decade of service to Delta College, continuously working
to help shape its culture and organizational equity. He holds a diverse educational
background, beginning with a bachelor's degree in economics from the University of
Michigan. He then went on to earn graduate degrees in English Language and Literature,
Human Resources and Organizational Development and Psychology.
Throughout his tenure, he has been a vital resource for the institution. He has mentored
colleagues and fellow leaders, chaired the Diversity Council on the Executive Committee
for Administrative and Professional Staff (ECAPS), and provided strategic support
in the college’s successful implementation of the Belonging, Equity, Diversity, and
Inclusion (BEDI) division.
Darrin is known for approaching his work quietly and methodically. His personal philosophy
is centered on the enduring importance of seeing, understanding and valuing every
individual. Driven by a highly empathetic nature, Darrin consistently operates with
integrity and respect, embodying the true spirit of MLK, Jr. through his selfless
dedication to creating an inclusive and just environment for every member of the college
community.
30th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Unity Celebration
Darrin Johnson will receive the Spirit of MLK Award January 19 at the 30th Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Unity Luncheon presented by Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity,
Inc and Delta College Black Faculty and Staff Association.
The Unity Luncheon will be held at the Dow Event Center in Saginaw at 11am. This year’s
theme is, “Mission Possible II: Building Community, Uniting a Nation the Nonviolent
Way” and the keynote address will be given by Rev. André L. Spivey, J.D. of Oak Grove
AME in Detroit.
To participate in the Unity March that precedes the luncheon at 10am, meet at the
corner of Franklin Street and Hayden Street at 9:30am.
For more information and for tickets, contact Larry Jones at 989-714-0709, Smallwood
Holoman at 989-859-2602 or Eddie Foxx at 989-860-4146.
Past award recipients
2025 – Dr. Angela Guy-Lee
2024 – Dorian Rouse-Phelps
2023 – Joseph Hernandez
2022 – Lula Woodard
2021 – Beth Kelch
2020 – Carlos McMath
2019 – John Neal
2018 – Veronica Bond
2017 – Monica Hernandez-Alaniz
2016 – Rosemary Reeves
2015 – Dr. Linda Holoman
2014 – Dr. Charissa Urbano
2013 – Carl Ruth
2012 – Beverly Westbrook
2011 – Mary Beth Looby
2010 – Dr. Jean Goodnow
2009 – William E. Ketchum, Jr.
2008 – Teresa Stitt
2007 – Katrina Nichols
2006 – Joan Sabourin
2005 – Jack Crowell
2004 – Neville Britto
