O'Keefe M. Johnson

Assistant Director of Graduate Student Involvement

O’Keefe Johnson (she/her) serves as the Assistant Director of Graduate Student Involvement in UNCW Campus Life. In this role, she develops programming that supports graduate students’ personal, academic, and professional growth while fostering meaningful social connections.

O’Keefe originally joined the UNCW community in 2020 as a Residence Coordinator and RHA Advisor within Housing and Residence Life. She transitioned into her current role in the summer of 2024, where she focuses on enhancing the graduate student experience through intentional programming, resource support, and opportunities for leadership development.

Committed to leadership and identity development, O’Keefe creates opportunities for graduate students to explore their strengths, build community, and develop the skills needed for success beyond the classroom. Through workshops, networking events, and social initiatives, she ensures students feel supported, engaged, and connected throughout their time at UNCW.

Clifton Strengths Coach: Strategic, Individualization, Connectedness, Communication, Activator

Education

Education:
M.Ed. in College Student Affairs Administration, University of Georgia
B.A. in International Affairs with a Minor in Spanish, University of Georgia

Professional Service

North Carolina Housing Officers Executive Council Member (2024)
UNCW Inclusive Community Committee (2023-2024)
UNCW Professional Development Committee (2021-2023)
SEAHO Programming Commitee (2023-2024)
SEAHO Professional Development Committee (2023-2024)
SEAHO Regional Entry Level Institute Graduate (2022)

Honors & Awards

UNCW Residence Hall Association “O’Keefe Johnson Dedication Award” (Established 2024)
2023-2024 UNCW Solar Awards “Advisor of the Year” for the UNCW Residence Hall Association
2023 SAACURH Regional Leadership Conference Top 5 Program
2022-2023, 2023-2024 UNCW Golden Sammy Recipient
2022-2023 UNCW Bronze Pin Recipient
2021-2022 UNCW Golden Sammy
2021-2022 UNCW Bronze Pin Recipient
2021-2022 Evelyn A. Wallington SAACURH Advisor of the Year
2020-2021 UNCW Housing and Residence Life Residence Coordinator of the Year
2019-2020 UGA NRHH Advisor of the Year
2019-2020 UGA NRHH Graduate Resident of the Year