By Whitney Baxter
“Be the change you wish to see.” That is the motto Ian Johnson lives by as a leader.
A graduating senior in animal science, Johnson was recognized for his leadership skills by being selected for the spring 2024 semester’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences Student Council Leadership and Innovation Award.
His desire to drive change is the inspiration behind his pursuit of leadership opportunities on Iowa State University’s campus. Those leadership roles have included serving as:
- ISU Homecoming co-director
- Homecoming Central logistics coordinator
- President of Alpha Gamma Rho
- Block and Bridle scholarship chair
- Animal science peer mentor
Among his successes has been leading the implementation of a new Homecoming tradition – the Give What You Can food drive. In its first year, the effort brought in 22,000 pounds of food and hygiene products that were donated to United Way of Story County.
“That has probably been the single most rewarding thing I’ve done on campus,” Johnson said.
Another point of pride has been the culture change he helped lead within the Alpha Gamma Rho fraternity. Members used to be required to attend all AGR events, which led to burnout, especially among upperclassmen. As president, Johnson and fellow officers decided to ease some of the requirements, making it so members did not have to attend each event.
This change was due, in part, to Johnson knowing the importance of listening to those around him, hearing everyone’s opinions and weighing all the options before deciding how to move forward.
Brad Skaar, associate professor of animal science and AGR chapter advisor, described Johnson as a “calm, level-headed, clear thinking” leader.
“He is a mature leader who calmly handles stressful or challenging situations as he and others work through those situations,” Skaar said.
As Johnson prepares to begin work as a product specialist for Select Sires in Ohio following graduation, he encourages fellow student leaders – and those who aspire to lead – to listen to others and make efforts to connect with people both in and outside of their organization.
“What people say about you as a leader is more meaningful than what you say about yourself,” Johnson said.