Chris Johnson Bids Farewell to BU

Photo provided by Rampage student photographer Malique Gordon.

Dean of Students Chris Johnson is saying goodbye to Bluefield University after seven years on campus, including four years as a student and three years as an employee.

During his four years as a student, Johnson studied criminal justice and helped with Student Ministries before graduating in 2018. After graduation, he spent several years away from Bluefield, then returned in 2022 to serve on staff as the director of student activities. He was later promoted to dean of students.

As the dean, he is responsible for supporting and enhancing student life. He oversees student conduct and discipline, ensuring enforcement of policies. He also manages resident advisors and resident directors and helps with BU Campus Ministries. When asked about his success at BU, Johnson humbly spoke more about BU students.

“I don’t have many successes,” he said. “I think some things I’m most proud of are student leader work and getting to work with student leaders.”

He also spoke about the challenges of working with college students.

“Dealing with conduct and discipline,” he noted is one of the most challenging aspects of his job. “Trying to figure out how to navigate that in a way that’s honoring to people.”

Johnson is leaving BU for an opportunity to work with YoungLife in Winchester, Virginia. With YoungLife, he will oversee ministry at five high schools, six middle schools, and a couple of universities. BU’s Corey Mullins, vice president for student development, said Johnson will be missed.

“I am thankful for the contributions made by Chris and his team over the past three years,” Mullins said.