Tri-C Famous: Johnie Reed

#TriCFamous is a bimonthly feature that introduces readers to the people who make the College work while providing a sneak peek into their lives off campus.

Johnie Reed joined the Tri-C family as a student and part-time gym assistant, eventually becoming a tenured faculty member in business administration at the Westshore Campus. In 2020, he created Let’s Talk About It, a virtual, student-focused conversation series that explores racial justice and equity topics. Learn more about Johnie in this week’s Tri-C Famous!

1. Who do you look up to the most, and why?
My godfather, James Mosley, showed me patience, the value of self-respect and the honor that comes with being honest. My dad died when I was 12, and I spiraled out of control. James reminded me nearly every day that these were the years that would shape the rest of my life. “Daddy Buck,” as he came to be known, taught me all about the construction trades. I learned life lessons from Daddy Buck that I still use to this very day. I love, honor and respect him so much that I am in the beginning stages of funding a scholarship in his name for students in construction certificate or business programs at Tri-C.

2. What is something that most people don’t know about you?
Most people who know me as a colleague wouldn’t believe that I’m an introvert. There’s a song by Smokey Robinson and the Miracles called “The Tears of a Clown” that is highly reflective of my personality. One of the lyrics is, “Don’t let my glad expression give you the wrong impression.” I’ve struggled with untreated ADHD and depression for most of my life, but I am finally working with a therapist to begin my journey of change. 

3. If you were making a “bucket list,” what would be the first thing on it?
To be more understanding of those around me and to share more with those I love and who love me back.

Want to be Tri-C Famous? Email beth.cieslik@tri-c.edu for a chance to be featured (or to nominate someone else!)

November 23, 2021

Beth Cieslik, 216-987-4538 or beth.cieslik@tri-c.edu