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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, led 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

Mr. Johnson brings a global lens and local passion to every endeavor—from developing community-building programs with the Fulbright Commission in Cyprus to revitalizing economic initiatives as Chairman of the Asbury Park UEZ. For over three decades, he has championed inclusive growth, serving in leadership roles across Chambers of Commerce and collaborating with the New Jersey League of Municipalities to drive civic engagement, global connection, and resilient community development that models excellence in collaborative and inclusive community building.

Education in Action

Mr. Johnson is a nationally recognized educator and the 2025 recipient of the Elbert K. Fretwell Outstanding Educator Award, honoring his steadfast dedication to education, leadership, and community-building. Through his visionary leadership, Mr. Johnson has championed the development of globally enriched academic and experiential programs, skillfully securing competitive curriculum grants that expand learning beyond traditional boundaries. His deep-rooted commitment to civic engagement breathes life into classrooms and communities alike—empowering learners through interactive, values-based education that inspires critical thinking, fosters collaboration, and cultivates a lasting sense of leadership and civic responsibility.

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.

Ed JohnsonAP International
Ed JohnsonAP International
Ed JohnsonAP International
Ed JohnsonAP International
Ed JohnsonAP International
Ed JohnsonAP International