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Ed Johnson: Leader in Public Service, Community Engagement & Global Affairs

Ed Johnson is a dedicated leader in governance, community development, and international engagement. With over 40 years of public service, he has made a lasting impact at local, national, and global levels.

A Legacy of Leadership in Asbury Park

From 1998 to 2013, Mr. Johnson served as Mayor, Councilman, and Chairman of the Urban Enterprise Zone, playing a pivotal role in revitalizing Asbury Park. In recognition of his service, he holds the esteemed title of Mayor Emeritus. His leadership continues to inspire civic engagement and community-building initiatives.

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From Local Roots to Global Impact

Mr. Johnson is a driving force in building local 2 global initiatives. As a founding and Honorary Member of the Global Parliament of Mayors, he has inspired civic engagement worldwide. His leadership extends to the Youth Mayors Initiative at UWC Maastricht and collaborations at The New School of Amsterdam. Additionally he has guided study tours on the Dutch Delta Programme, lead a historic cultural exchange in Cuba, and contributed as an official NGO Observer at the UNFCCC SB60 climate conference in Bonn, Germany. His work fosters meaningful connections across borders impacting education, governance, and community-building.

Economic Innovation & Community Power

A champion of community-driven progress, Mr. Johnson has spent over two decades fostering business growth and economic resilience. As Chairman of the Asbury Park UEZ, he has played a pivotal role in revitalizing the program’s effectiveness, ensuring local businesses thrive. His leadership extends across regional and national organizations, serving as an active Governance Board member and a dedicated officer in local and state Chambers. Through his engagement with the NJ Conference of Mayors and the NJ League of Municipalities, he continues to advance global engagement, economic resilience, and community empowerment.

Education in Action

A dedicated advocate for education and community building, Mr. Johnson has successfully secured curriculum grants to develop globally enriched academic and experiential programs. He has also led civic engagement seminars and experiential programs, empowering students and communities through interactive learning. As Executive Director of Governmental Affairs and Community Relations at Brookdale Community College, he strengthens civic engagement and fosters impactful connections. Additionally, as an Adjunct Faculty member at Rutgers University and Brookdale Community College, he brings his expertise in Political Science and Community Building to the classroom and online learning to engage & inspire future brave leaders.

Making Waves & Learning

A proud graduate of New Jersey Public Schools and Eastern New Mexico University, Mr. Johnson holds a Bachelor of Science in Political Science and Business Administration and a Master of Arts in Social and Political Sciences. His alma mater honored his dedication to education, community-building, and governance with induction into the ENMU Alumni Hall of Fame, recognizing his lifelong commitment to learning and leadership. From water safety education to online learning, Mr. Johnson has championed innovative programs that expand access to knowledge and opportunity. He continues a career built on forging connections, driving innovation, and inspiring change as a transformative force in education, public service, and civic engagement across the globe.