James Johnson Jr. named 2026 MLK Medal of Service honoree

Jackson College is pleased to announce that James Johnson Jr. has been selected as the recipient of the 2026 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Medal of Service Award, recognizing his outstanding commitment to equity, community service, and advocacy for working families throughout Jackson County.

Johnson was born in Chicago and moved to Jackson at age 8, growing up in Kings Community Homes. He graduated from Jackson High School in 1997 and went on to build a distinguished 25-year career as an electrician. Today, he serves as the business agent for the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW), representing workers across Jackson County. In this role, he oversees political engagement, job-site issues, recruiting, pre-apprenticeship programs, donations, public events, and community service initiatives.

Deeply committed to service, Johnson has held leadership roles with the United Way—where he is a past board chair and continues to serve — as well as the Skilled Trades Task Force and multiple City of Jackson commissions. His efforts have strengthened community programs, expanded opportunities in the skilled trades, and ensured more equitable access to resources for local residents.

Johnson shared that he was “floored” when he received the news of the award. “I’m humbled. The work I do in the community isn’t for accolades,” he said. “I know what it is to go without. I try to be what I needed when I was younger and make sure people are treated equitably. That’s what drives me to do the work I do in Jackson.”

In addition to his community service, Johnson has also run for the State Legislature, driven by a desire to give working-class residents a stronger voice. “For years, a lot of politicians have forgotten about the working class,” he said. “Our voices are often muted. I want to represent the working people of this area and help share their stories.”

Johnson is deeply grateful for the honor. “I’m extremely honored and humbled. I appreciate this so much, and I’m grateful just to have been considered,” he said.

The Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Medal of Service Award is presented annually to individuals who exemplify Dr. King’s values through leadership, service, and a commitment to equity and justice. Jackson College congratulates James Johnson for his remarkable service and lasting impact on the community.

The Medal of Service will be presented during the Jackson College Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration on Saturday, Jan. 17, 2026, in the Potter Center’s Robert Snyder Dining Commons. The evening will begin with a social time at 5:30 p.m., followed by dinner at 6 p.m.

Ticket Info: MLK Celebration – Jackson College