Development specialist named Ambassador of the Month

Submitted by UNC HEALTH JOHNSTON

SMITHFIELD — UNC Health Johnston has recognized Amanda Johnson, the development specialist for the Johnston Health Foundation, as Ambassador of the Month for January.

During a recent presentation, UNC Health Johnston CEO Tom Williams said Johnson is dependable, hard-working and knowledgeable about the foundation’s operations, funds and events. “She continually strives to improve processes and knows how to get things done,” Williams said. “Even in stressful times, she is gracious and helpful.”

Before joining UNC Health Johnston five years ago, she worked as a communications manager for country clubs, first in Charlotte and later in Raleigh. Earlier, while a student in a graduate program at the University of South Carolina, she interned for a hospital foundation and felt inspired to pursue a career in philanthropy.

In her current role, Johnson says she most enjoys the sense of community. “I like dreaming up concepts and working with teammates and volunteers to promote and put on an event or campaign,” she said. “While I’m not directly involved in clinical operations, I know I’m helping patients.”

Johnson says it’s rewarding to have purpose in her job. “I’m working in the community where I grew up and feel deeply rooted,” she adds. “I want to see the health of the people in our communities improve.”

She grew up in Meadow and graduated from South Johnston High School.

Through her work, Johnson says she’s gained a deeper appreciation for every department of the hospital, from behavioral health to hospice. Out in the community, she is vice president of fund development for the Junior Women’s League of Smithfield. In 2021, the organization named her Woman of the Year.

In her spare time, Johnson enjoys bargain hunting and traveling. She and her husband, Matt, live in Clayton and have two sons, Jude, 5, and Cole, 2.

Through the ambassador program, UNC Health Johnston recognizes teammates who go above and beyond the call of duty. They deliver quality care, foster teamwork and offer excellent service.

In addition to a designated month-long parking space, Johnson will receive eight hours of paid time off.