Meet Lorraine Johnson
Lorraine Johnson is a senior at T.C. Williams High, president of its Black Student Union and a student representative on the Alexandria City School Board. Oh, and this accomplished young woman is also our awesome Move2Learn Program Assistant! We recently sat down with her for a Q&A and learned some fun and interesting things about her.
What’s one of your favorite things to do for fun?
Binge watch new TV shows!
Do you have a favorite book?
“Kindred.” It’s about a Black woman from the ’70s who goes back in time and connects with her ancestors from slavery. I love this book because I love when my grandmother tells me stories about my own family history. I wish I could go back in time and fill in some of the missing pieces.
How’s the college application process going? Do you have an idea of what you want to study?
Little did I know, the college application part was easy! Applying for scholarships is the main event. If I could turn back time, I’d spend less time stressing about applying and put more energy in applying for scholarships.
I want to major in the Communications area. I’ve been thinking about Advertising or Public Relations. Once I get into college, I should have a better idea of what I really want to do.
Can you tell us a little about your roles as president of T.C.’s Black Student Union and student representative of the Alexandria school board?
I’ve been participating in the Black Student Union since I was a sophomore and served as its president the 2020-2021 school year.
My most important role is the Student Representative on the school board. I got involved after overhearing some parents in a public meeting for the High School Project say their kids wanted the School Board to build another school instead of adding on to T.C. The next day, I asked every student in sight what they wanted: They all said that they wanted to remain Titans in one building. A couple of friends and I signed up to speak at the deciding school board meeting. The board members were relieved to see students, and I think that we had a huge influence on their decision to remain one high school.
What historical person is on your most admired list?
I would have to say Madame CJ Walker. She was the first female self-made millionaire in America. She started building her business just 40 years after slavery ended. Because men felt women should “stay in their place” it took years for Walker to get their respect, let alone get them to invest in a company owned by a Black WOMAN. I admire her because she took the American Dream and paved the way for Black women to create their own American Dream.
Who’s the most influential person in your life?
My mom,* because of the impact she has on the Alexandria community, especially in the school system.
What’s the first thing you’ll do post-COVID?
Hug all of my friends. I miss that!
What food would you never want to give up?
CHOCOLATE!!!
*Lorraine’s mom is PreeAnne Johnson, principal of James K. Polk Elementary. Johnson, who received the honor of ACPS principal of the year in 2020, recently announced her retirement as of July 1, 2021.
