Johnson brings experience, passion for inspiring leaders to Lipscomb

Kim Chaudoin  |  12/06/2024

For Bill Johnson, leadership isn’t just a skill — it’s a calling.

With nearly 40 years of experience guiding organizations, inspiring teams and shaping the next generation of leaders, Johnson has joined Lipscomb University’s College of Leadership & Public Service as a professor of leadership and practice.

His goal? To equip students with the tools and mindset needed to lead with purpose, integrity, and impact.

"My passion has always been developing leaders who not only drive organizational success but also create meaningful impacts on the lives of others,” Johnson shared. “Lipscomb’s mission of integrating faith and work aligns perfectly with my personal and professional values."

The Indiana native, who began teaching at Lipscomb in 2024, focuses on leadership development within the college’s graduate programs. His teaching extends to specialized tracks in leadership and public service, including the college’s Regional Scholars Program and initiatives designed for the partnership with the Tennessee National Guard. 

From Farm Credit to the classroom

Johnson’s career includes executive roles with Farm Credit Services of Mid-America that spans more than 25 years, where he served as president and CEO from 2011-2022, growing the organization’s portfolio from $17 billion to over $30 billion while fostering a culture that earned national recognition as one of the best places to work. He later transitioned to academia, serving as interim head of the Department of Agricultural and Resource Economics and the Jerry L. Gibbs Professor of Practice at the University of Tennessee-Knoxville.

The move to Lipscomb marks a return to a place Johnson holds close to his heart. His connection to the university began years ago when his daughter pursued undergraduate and master’s degrees in education there. Through guest lectures and collaborations with faculty such as Steve Joiner, dean of the College of Leadership & Public Service, Johnson discovered a deep affinity for Lipscomb’s community and mission.

“I’ve always admired how Lipscomb develops leaders who are grounded in faith and equipped to make a difference,” said Johnson, who holds an undergraduate degree in finance from the University of Evansville, an MBA from Gonzaga University and a Doctor of Education from Vanderbilt’s Peabody College. “This university doesn’t just prepare students for careers, it prepares them for a lifetime of purpose.”

Inspiring leaders of tomorrow

In his appointment at Lipscomb, Johnson teaches courses that emphasize leadership principles, ethical decision-making and the ability to lead by influence rather than authority — qualities he believes are essential in today’s complex world. He sees his role as helping students cultivate both the skills and the heart required for impactful leadership.

“Leadership isn’t just about achieving results. It’s about helping others succeed and creating an environment where they can thrive,” Johnson explained. “Anyone can learn to lead, but it takes intentionality, education and a willingness to serve others.”

Through the College of Leadership & Public Service’s graduate programs, Johnson is especially excited about the ripple effect his students can have. Whether they return to rural communities, transition from military service or lead in public policy, Johnson believes the skills they develop at Lipscomb will create lasting impacts.

“I believe my experience lends itself to having a greater impact at the graduate level,” he explained. “It’s more suited to what my second act (of my career) is about. I want to develop a person to make an impact, not just to be successful. I believe strongly that you can both get results and make an impact on people’s lives.”

A vision for transformational leadership

Reflecting on his own journey, Johnson acknowledges that some of his most significant lessons came from observing both effective and ineffective leadership during his career.

“Working with great leaders taught me the importance of ethical decision-making and investing in people,” he said. “But I also saw how poor leadership could hinder both organizational success and individual fulfillment. That’s why I’m so passionate about what we’re doing here.”

“Individuals lead by influence, not by position. The key is to create relationships,” Johnson continued. “To be a good leader you also have to examine your heart and ask yourself if you are helping team members grow every day. Leadership shows up in generations to come. The seeds you plant as a leader grows down the road. It has been so rewarding to see those whom I’ve lead through the years now as leaders.”

Johnson’s vision for his students extends beyond professional success. He encourages them to embrace lifelong learning and to lead with integrity, compassion and purpose.

“Lipscomb is uniquely positioned to equip leaders who can integrate their faith into their work, making an impact not just in their organizations but in their communities,” he said. “It’s a privilege to be part of that mission.”

Learn more about the College of Leadership & Public Service’s graduate programs. 

— Photo by Kristi Jones