Lee University announced that Dr. Fijoy Johnson has assumed an expanded role as director of community and church relations, effective Feb. 1.
 
“Dr. Johnson is widely respected for his deep engagement with the community and his welcoming presence at campus events,” said Vanessa Hammond, vice president for University Relations at Lee. “His expanded role reflects the vital work he has already been doing, and I am excited for him to continue cultivating the relationships that connect Lee University with our community and church partners.”
 
Johnson, who previously served as director of church relations, has worked at the university for 20 years in Campus Ministries and University Relations. The expanded role formalizes community engagement responsibilities he has supported for several years, including special event hospitality, the Community Showcase, and engagement with organizations such as the Chamber of Commerce and Rotary.
 
“I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve in this expanded role,” said Johnson. “I’m excited to continue strengthening relationships with both the community and the church, and I look forward to building partnerships that reflect our shared commitment to meaningful engagement and faithful service.”
 
In this new role, Johnson will serve as the campus liaison for community visits, oversee community event sponsorships, coordinate community partnerships and participation in events such as United Way Day of Action, and serve as the primary point of contact for community inquiries.
 
Johnson will continue his church relations responsibilities in coordination with Campus Ministries, including leadership of chapel usher teams, hosting Church of God and other church delegations and events on campus, representing Lee at Church of God events as designated by the president, and cultivating relationships and financial support from church and ministerial constituents.
 
An ordained bishop in the Church of God, Johnson also serves as director of intercultural ministries for the Church of God.
 
He earned a Doctor of Christian Ministry in church leadership from Bethel Seminary, as well as a Master of Arts in youth and family ministry and a Bachelor of Science in pastoral ministry, both from Lee University.
 
The change follows the resignation of Kristen Grisham, who stepped down as director of community engagement. Grisham served in the role since 2024.
 
“We are grateful for Kristen’s service and the strategic impact she made during a critical period at the university,” said Hammond.
 
The leadership transition was announced to faculty and staff during meetings earlier this month.
 
To contact Dr. Fijoy Johnson, email [email protected] or call 423-614-8422. For questions about the Encore program, contact Audra Iannarone at 423-614-8310 or [email protected].