Dr. Steven Johnson Jr. (he/him/his) serves as the Interim Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs at the University of Illinois Springfield, where he provides strategic leadership for the Division of Student Affairs and advances initiatives that foster student success, belonging, well-being, and engagement. Since joining UIS, Dr. Johnson has served in progressively responsible leadership roles, beginning as Assistant Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs, later being promoted to Associate Vice Chancellor, and now serving as Interim Vice Chancellor. Throughout his tenure, he has led divisional strategic planning efforts, strengthened assessment and organizational effectiveness, expanded leadership development opportunities for students and staff, and championed collaborative initiatives that enhance the student experience and cultivate a culture of care across campus.

Prior to joining UIS, Dr. Johnson held leadership positions at the University of Kansas, including Director of Student Involvement and Leadership, Director of Sorority and Fraternity Life, and Assistant Dean for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging in the School of Business. Across these roles, he developed expertise in organizational leadership, student engagement, strategic planning, and inclusive excellence.

Dr. Johnson earned a Doctor of Education in Higher Education Administration from the University of Kansas, a Master of Arts in Student Affairs Administration from Michigan State University, and a Bachelor of Science in Industrial and Manufacturing Systems Engineering from Iowa State University. He is also pursuing a Master of Business Administration with a certificate in Human Resource Management at the University of Illinois Springfield, reflecting his commitment to lifelong learning and leadership development.

A recognized leader within the profession, Dr. Johnson currently serves as President of the Illinois College Personnel Association (ICPA) and remains actively engaged with ACPA, NASPA, and the Association of Fraternity/Sorority Advisors (AFA). He has been recognized nationally for his leadership and service, including receiving the ACPA Diamond Honoree Award, the Pan African Network Sawubona 30 Under 40 Award, the NASPA Black Diaspora Knowledge Community Stellar 50 Award, and ACPA's Outstanding Directorate Board Member Award. His scholarly and professional interests include organizational leadership, student engagement, leadership development, student employment, and creating campus cultures where students and staff can thrive.