The 180 Program Foundation

            Dr. Raphael B. Johnson is a graduate of Gwynedd Mercy University’s Executive Doctorate in Educational Leadership program. He attended the University of Detroit Mercy, where he graduated summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts in legal administration and a Master of Arts in liberal studies. Dr. Johnson’s doctoral research redefined self-destructive behavior (a term commonly used in psychology) and applied it to pedagogy with emphasis in urban middle school males.  The results of Dr. Johnson’s study have aided educational stakeholders in properly identifying thought processes that lead to school disengagement, specified misbehaviors and eventual adult incarceration. In 2016 Dr. Johnson’s research topic, Self-destructive Behavior in Urban Middle Schools as a Predictor of Adult Incarceration won 1^st Place in the International Thesis Competition hosted by Mary Immaculate College in Limerick, Ireland.

            Dr. Johnson founded The 180° Program in 2004. His school-wide behavior support services offer both students and educators the opportunity to learn pro-social behavior skills and interventions for the promotion of high academic achievement, higher order thinking skills, college/career readiness and reduction in truancy. To support students and parents in navigating the challenges brought on by the pandemic, Dr. Johnson program offers curriculum-based social-emotional learning modules across several school districts. Several of his professional development series were adopted by Georgia Southern University and incorporated into their annual National Youth At-Risk conference from 2015 to 2016. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Johnson spent fourteen years as a daytime television behavioral expert and consultant on the Maury show, specializing in issues involving “out-of-control teens” and “controlling men.”

            As the founder of The Detroit 300 community organization, he was honored with the NAACP Ida B. Wells Award for his community initiatives and published work entitled, How to Secure and Take Back Your Neighborhood. Subsequently, he was awarded the prestigious Michiganian of the Year award for his outstanding community efforts.  His autobiography, To Pose A Threat: My Rite of Passage, has been included in the African American Literature Special Collection at Wayne State University.

            Dr. Johnson is a distinguished legislative strategist and renowned athlete whose multifaceted career has earned him widespread recognition and respect. Throughout his journey, he has received numerous prestigious awards and honors, including the Michigan Chronicle Men of Excellence award, the Spirit of Detroit award, a City of Detroit Testimonial Resolution, inclusion in Who’s Who in Black Detroit, the Frederick Douglass award, and accolades as Steve Harvey’s Best Community Leader in the Nation. Most recently, he was honored with the Marquise Who’s Who recognition, a Special Tribute from the Michigan Senate Democrats, and a formal Resolution from the Detroit Police Board of Commissioners, underscoring his significant contributions to both his community and state.

            In his other professional capacity, Dr. Johnson has diligently served as a Michigan Senate Legislative Director for the past four years. In this position, he plays a critical role in shaping policy and legislation that impact the lives of millions across Michigan. His expertise and strategic acumen have made him a key figure in advancing social justice, civil rights, economic development, education, voting rights, juvenile and criminal justice reform, and healthcare initiatives within the state.

            Beyond his academic and social achievements, Dr. Johnson is an accomplished powerlifter with a passion for strength sports. He holds two Michigan state records in the Strict Curl lift, showcasing his dedication to pushing physical boundaries. His athletic prowess is further demonstrated by earning fourteen gold medals in Michigan’s USA Powerlifting and 100% Raw federation leagues, reflecting his commitment to excellence and discipline in sports.

            Outside of his professional and athletic endeavors, Dr. Johnson is a devoted family man. He shares his life with his wife, Dakita, son, who is currently enrolled in college, and daughter who is a high school senior. He values family time immensely, often spending weekends traveling with his loved ones, exploring new destinations, and creating lasting memories.

            His hobbies include motorcycle riding, which allows him to embrace adventure and freedom; weightlifting, which keeps him physically sharp; and exploring emerging technologies, demonstrating his interest in innovation and future-forward thinking. He is also active in mentoring youth and advocating for community empowerment.

            Dr. Johnson’s diverse interests, combined with his unwavering dedication to public service and athletic excellence, make him a true leader and role model in his community. His impactful work continues to leave a lasting legacy of leadership, strength, and compassion.