Emerging Leader Spotlight: Jeff Johnston
Name: Jeff Johnston
Company Name: Shoe Station
Position: Corporate Counsel and Assistant Buyer
Alma Mater:
Faulkner Law School – J.D.
Spring Hill College – B.S. Finance and Economics
Hometown: Mobile, Alabama
Key positions in the City:
- Board member of South Alabama’s Professional Readiness and Engagement Program
- Mardi Gras Float Leader—Mobile Area Challenged Revelers
- Buddy Ball Coach—A baseball league designed for children with special needs
Brief summary about who you are
I am born and raised in Mobile, AL. My mom, Cheryl, is a Special Education teacher based out of Baker High School, and my dad, Mark, is in the Athletic Hall of Fame at South Alabama after playing baseball for Coach Eddie Stanky. I played center field at Bishop State Junior College and won a Gold Glove at that position. After majoring in Finance and Economics at Spring Hill College I then earned a Juris Doctorate from Faulkner Law School in Montgomery, AL. I passed the July 2017 Alabama Bar Exam, and accepted a position at Shoe Station as Corporate Counsel and Assistant Buyer. Depending on the day, I may draft a Cease and Desist letter, edit a retail lease, or write purchase orders for such brands as Cole Haan, Birkenstock, Rockport, and Sperry.
What does it mean to be an Emerging Leader?
Being an Emerging Leader means seeking opportunities to serve and better the lives those around us. Emerging Leaders accomplish this by promoting volunteerism and even further, by creating events for the specific purpose of growing our service community.
Why are you passionate about your commitment to United Way?
I find that many people want to help others but simply do not know where to start. It was frustrating to me to want to serve yet not know how or where to help. The United Way fixed that problem for me. My fellow Emerging Leaders are showing me where I am able to serve and how to serve. I am delighted to be part of an organization where helping others is the primary focus. We hope you will consider joining us as well!
What is something interesting or surprising that most people don’t know about you?
I play piano, guitar, ukulele, and am learning the violin. While in law school, I competed…well, I mean I participated in a power-lifting meet. In my downtime, I like to go fishing at my grandparents’ home on Dauphin Island, play sports, run the occasional Tough Mudder/Spartan Race, and spend time with friends and family.
What is your favorite quote?
“The smallest act of kindness is worth more than the grandest intention.” – Oscar Wilde