Vallarie Johnson Selected to Participate in the University System of Georgia’s Executive Leadership Institute

(October 5, 2026) - Vallarie Johnson, Vice President for University Advancement and External Affairs, has been appointed to the University System of Georgia’s (USG) Executive Leadership Institute (ELI), an intensive leadership development program designed to prepare high-potential professionals for senior-level advancement within the University System of Georgia. Led by expert facilitators, the program strengthens leadership capabilities through group learning sessions, assessments, mentoring, job shadowing, and reflective practice over nine months.

Johnson shared, “I’m incredibly honored to be selected for the University System of Georgia’s Executive Leadership Institute. I believe the best leaders never stop learning, and I’m excited for the opportunity to learn alongside colleagues from across the System, challenge myself in new ways & continue growing as a leader. Most importantly, I look forward to bringing what I learn back to Clayton State as we continue building on our momentum and creating greater impact for our students, our community & the region we serve.”

The USG describes ELI as a program intended for individuals with a demonstrated commitment to higher education, a strong performance record, and clear potential for advancement into roles such as chair, executive director, or higher.

According to Johnson, this year’s ELI is a class of 39 participants representing colleges and universities from across the USG. Johnson said she saw some familiar faces at the orientation meeting. She said, “There are two other people participating who I worked with at the system office, and then former colleagues of mine from Atlanta Metro and Dalton State. And then also there are other external affairs team members from across the system at other institutions that I worked with in my role at the USG. Prior to joining Clayton State University earlier this year, Johnson served as Executive Director of Government Relations for the USG. Before that, she was Executive Director of External & Alumni Relations with Dalton State College & Executive Director of Government Relations with Atlanta Metropolitan College.

The ELI is the second leadership program that Johnson will participate in, developed by the USG.  She shared that in September she is wrapping up participation in USG Great from the Middle (GFTM), a development program for current managers/supervisors at USG institutions, specifically those at the Director level or below with direct reports who have a high potential for growth. This program aims to enhance leadership skills for those "leading in the middle." The ELI Program is a natural next step for Johnson’s career development training since joining Clayton State as a Vice President and member of the President’s Cabinet.