Rutgers GSE graduate credits community support during personal loss

Conrad L. Johnson, a recent graduate of the Rutgers Graduate School of Education (GSE), has credited the support of his academic community for helping him complete his degree during a challenging personal period. Johnson, who lost his mother partway through his program, described the experience as one that tested his resolve.

“A little more than halfway through my degree, I lost my mom prematurely,” Conrad said. “I thought I wasn’t going to finish my program because I wanted her to be there at my graduation this past May. Throughout all my graduations, from Pre-K to my first master’s, my mom was out there.

Not having her for the second one was difficult, but I know she was there with me in spirit,” he continued. “The support of Dr. Gail Verona, my professors, and my classmates during that time gave me the strength to finish strong. I learned to never give up and to stay the course, no matter how difficult the road gets.”

Raised in a Caribbean neighborhood in Brooklyn, New York, Johnson said he felt called to become an educator.

“Teaching has always been a passion of mine,” Conrad said. “In my neighborhood, there were a lot of single-family homes with single moms raising kids. I wanted my students to see a familiar face in the classroom, someone they could relate to, share concerns with, and build a connection to,”

He added that it was important for students "to see a reflection of themselves and instill values for the future – that if I can do it, they can do it too.”

Johnson works as Clinical Education Program Manager at Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School and sought out GSE’s master’s program for its flexibility and opportunities for close mentorship.

“My first master’s program lacked the undivided attention and support I was searching for,” Conrad said. “However, the cohort at the GSE is smaller, so you develop a close-knit connection with your cohort, your professors, and your advisor. They are willing to support you through all walks of life, no matter what your age is.”

Through his studies in Educational Administration and Supervision at GSE, Johnson noted generational differences among classmates led to valuable discussions.

“Sharing my life experiences and engaging in discussions with students who were fresh from undergrad allowed me to look at things more holistically and take a different approach,” Conrad said. “We were able to bounce ideas off one another, and it was interesting to see their perspectives in comparison to my generation. The program had people of all different ages, but we came together as one.”

Johnson also reflected on making connections with students while teaching in Newark schools.

“One second grader would always come around to talk when he was feeling down,” Conrad said. “He wasn’t in my class, but we often talked over lunch. He’s playing basketball in high school now, and he still calls me to catch up. It’s amazing to see that a small action can make an everlasting impact on someone’s life.”

Currently working as a substitute teacher in Hamilton Township School District while continuing his role within Rutgers University systems after nearly seven years on campus staff roles—including advocating for student rights—Johnson emphasized supporting young learners’ voices.

“The younger generation is inquisitive, willing to challenge different topics, and is taking ownership of their education,” Conrad said. “It’s important to speak up when the students feel voiceless or afraid to express their concerns because they fear being ridiculed or penalized. I was once a student so I understand what it’s like… Students should know they have an ally who will stand beside them.”

Looking ahead at Rutgers University where he hopes for further leadership opportunities within its system: “I don’t know what my future holds but I see myself in a higher leadership or executive functioning role within the Rutgers family," Conrad said." The sky's the limit."