After excelling as a student, and then shifting his skillset into a professional setting as part of CMU’s Technology Services team, alumnus Parker Johnson quickly proved his passions, talent, and dedication to his alma mater.
So, when the position for Webmaster – under CMU’s Marketing and Communications department – opened up in the fall, Executive Director Scott Queen immediately knew Johnson would be a great fit.
“Parker’s web skills are advanced beyond his years and he is great asset to the institution,” Queen said.
Johnson started in his new role on January 2, and is now solely responsible for the support and maintenance of CMU’s website, including layout, design, content updates, and analytics. Johnson also is involved in marketing Central through advertising campaigns, social media, video, public relations, and design.
“Coming from a support role to a marketing one has been interesting,” Johnson said. “While I was previously ‘fighting fires’ as things broke, now I have a much more numbers-based and goal-oriented position. Above all, my hope is just to better serve the institution that has made such a positive impact on my life these past six years.”
Johnson also works under CMU’s Division of Science, Mathematics and Computer Science as an adjunct professor of Web Page Design, currently teaching Central students three days a week in the newly-renovated Stedman Hall of Science.
Formerly, Johnson served as a systems analyst for CMU Technology Services, which called for expertise in the setup, implementation, and maintenance of the University’s administrative database system, as well as associated applications that support resources for business operations. He spent significant time troubleshooting and resolving computer problems across campus, creating and managing staff database accounts, and assisting with iPad, computer, and phone issues.
Johnson, a Richmond native, was a spring 2017 Honors graduate of Central – receiving a bachelor’s degree in computer science. During CMU’s commencement ceremony, he was honored with the Victoria award, which is given to one graduate who, in the opinion of the faculty and students, best exemplifies the ideals and purposes of Central.
While he was a student, Johnson worked as a tour guide for CMU’s Office of Admissions, and as a recording engineer for the Department of Music Ministry. He also was involved in numerous other student activities, including theatre, music, and Greek life.
During the summer of 2016, Johnson served as an Information Technology Intern for Leadership Institute in Arlington, Va. He interned the summer before, as well, for the State of Missouri Office of Administration in Jefferson City.