Alcorn alumna becomes a member of the Army’s Senior Executive Service

Alcorn alumna becomes a member of the Army’s Senior Executive Service

Clarksdale, Miss. native Brenda Johnson-Turner is living the life right now. Not only did she recently become a member of the Army’s Senior Executive Service, but she’s also in a position to earn money in a field that she is passionate about.

“I have the privilege to work closely with a diverse group of professionals every day to provide support to our soldiers and the nation,” said Johnson-Turner. “Not only do I feel a sense of purpose, but I also get to do something I love. Every day is different and it brings new challenges and new rewards. It is truly an honor to be a member of the Senior Executive Service.”

Johnson-Turner is one of the newest members of the U. S. Army Corps of Engineers’ Federal Government’s Senior Executive Service at the Headquarters in Washington, DC. The corps of executives is responsible for influencing the direction of innovation and transformation of the federal government and leading the next generation of public servants. In her new position, Johnson-Turner is responsible for program execution, overall policy, and ensuring technical expertise to provide real estate acquisition, management, and disposal through the eight regional centers and 32 district offices for Army controlled land and improvements world-wide.

Johnson-Turner has 15 years of civilian leadership and management experience. She recently served as the Deputy Director for Real Estate and the chief for the South Pacific Division and Great Lakes and Ohio River Division regional Integration Team for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. She has earned numerous certificates, including the Facilities Engineer Level III. She is also a member of the International Right of Way Association. She earned her bachelor’s degree in business administration from Alcorn State University in 1999.

Johnson-Turner credits the knowledge she received at Alcorn during her days as a student for her past and current success as a professional.

“My education at Alcorn State University was invaluable as it provided me with a great foundation. I studied business, so my broad background provided me with the right tools to transition from college to a profession. I was challenged as a student at Alcorn to give my best and reach beyond what I perceived as my limitations. Many of the lessons learned at Alcorn have followed me through my career.”

Johnson-Turner encourages students to have high aspirations for their careers. Once students find their calling, she noted that they should be relentless in achieving their goals.

“First, my advice is to have a dream. Dream big because anything is possible. Secondly, maintain focus and take charge. You should not be passive when it comes to your future. Develop a plan that works for you, as no two paths will look the same. If you have to adjust your dream, that is fine. Adjust and continue to move forward.”