Staff Spotlight: Joshua Johnson

08/11/2020

Inspired by the need to create positive examples of fatherhood and family, Joshua Johnson, an officer with Saint Louis University’s Department of Public Safety (DPS), works to create a place for dads to connect, masterminding the St. Louis area’s “Dope Dad” project.

DPS Office Joshua Johnson and his daughter, Kori.

Father to a 5-year-old daughter, Kori, Joshua Johnson, an officer with SLU's Department of Public Safety (DPS) drew from his own experience as a parent to reach out to other dads, founding Dope Dad. Submitted photo

The organization’s mission and brand “highlight, encourage, and inspire the positive relationships between fathers and their children.”

Father to a 5-year-old daughter, Kori, Johnson drew from his own experience as a parent to reach out to other dads.

“I know that fatherhood can cause some to be nervous, but I want them to know that they don’t have to be perfect,” Johnson, a member of SLU’s public safety team since 2017, explained. “Together we can help create or strengthen relationships between fathers and their children. My inspiration behind “Dope Dad” was a need for people to see more images and examples of fathers and children, but more so to create a community of dads.”

Johnson’s work has been highlighted by the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, the St. Louis American, St. Louis Public Radio and other outlets.

Johnson and the project focus on building networks for fathers to communicate with each other without fear of judgment. Dope Dad hosts community events, shares resources for fathers and families and has driven a social media campaign and presence highlighting positive images of fatherhood and parenting. The project also sells sweatshirts, T-shirts and other merchandise to offset event costs to allow parents to attend without paying out of pocket.

Joshua Johnson was inspired to start Dope Dad by his daughter, Kori.

SLU DPS Officer Joshua Johnson and his daughter, Kori. Submitted photo

“I have been working to build this network because I want dads to know that they are not alone in their journey and that we are here to assist however we can,” Johnson said. “Whether small talk, searching for resources, or sharing experiences, I want dads to be comfortable having necessary conversations with other dads.”

“I believe that I help to inspire change by being transparent and open about my journey and experiences,” he continued. “I do not attempt to display an image that is not true to who I am. I think that this shows authenticity and helps other be comfortable in their truths as well, allowing them to determine if and what changes need to be made in their own lives and relationships with their kids and community.”

Learn More About Joshua’s Work

What do you hope that other dads and families take away from Dope Dad?

That children truly benefit from the active parenting and fatherhood. Fathers are present in their children’s lives and truly enjoy it.

What does fatherhood mean to you, personally?

Fatherhood is the most important role and responsibility I have. It a responsibility that I do not take lightly. I thoroughly enjoy sharing experiences with my daughter.

What is the most meaningful lesson that you want to pass on to your own kids and the students you watch over here at SLU?

I would want them both to know, my daughter and our students here at SLU, that there is no specific blueprint to life, and that its okay to make mistakes. And that it is also important to learn from and to find lessons in our mistakes.

How do you see your work, both as a DPS officer and with Dope Dad, as living as a man for others, in line with SLU’s mission and values?

In my work with Dope Dad and DPS, and my life in general, community is very important. I do my best to always consider and interact with others. Everything I do in both communities is to the benefit of others first.

Knowing that I am positively affecting others, is more than fulfilling.

Officer Joshua Johnson (right) helps students chill-out during exams by escorting a therapeutic mini-horse around campus to visit them. SLU file photo by Joe Taylor

Want to Learn More About 'Dope Dad?'

Dope Dad is a small but growing organization that relies on community support. All dads are welcome to join or to attend events. Find out more about the project and Dope Dad community on Instagram @_dopedad or on Facebook (Dope Dad).

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