Tamara Johnson, director of engaged scholarship, was recently nominated for Charlotte Ledger’s 40 over 40 Awards. Learn more about her work in research and teaching, the rewards of her job and her family’s history at UNC Charlotte.
How long have you been at UNC Charlotte?
I have worked at UNC Charlotte full-time since 2012 and worked in the Provost’s Office before starting my role as director of engaged scholarship in 2018. I grew up near campus and held a variety of part-time jobs with the University in the late 1990s and early 2000s, including working with the University Transition Opportunities Program, Parking and Transportation Services, Office of Disability Services and International Student and Scholar Office.
Can you describe your role at UNC Charlotte?
I work collaboratively to develop policies, structures and initiatives that support community-based research and teaching. I work with campus partners to increase student access to social impact opportunities and to reduce barriers to engagement for faculty and community partners.
What’s the most rewarding part about your job?
As an urban geographer and a product of Charlotte’s public schools and community organizations, I’m passionate about UNC Charlotte’s urban research mission and history. I believe in the public mission of higher education and the University’s capacity to work with civic leaders and neighbors to “co-produce transformative solutions to societal issues and challenges.” I am inspired to work with the faculty, staff and students dedicated to this movement every day.
How does it feel to be nominated for Charlotte Ledger’s 40 over 40 Awards?
It was a surprise and an honor to be nominated among people engaged in such powerful and purposeful work in the city.
What do you like to do when you aren't working?
I love to garden. Through gardening, I am learning a lot about patience, hope and connectivity.
Tell us a little bit about your family.
My family has strong connections to UNC Charlotte. My mother was a faculty member here in the English Department, my sister earned a graduate certificate in technical writing and my nephew attended summer camps, including the recent sports analytics camp. My daughter is a frequent visitor to the Botanical Gardens and will likely attend summer camps next year.
What is one spot on campus everyone has to go to?
The Botanical Gardens! My favorite location is the moon gate, but my daughter always races to find the sun mosaic.