Ethel Jones Johnson Scholarship
Ethel Jones Johnson had a long career in early childhood education running many childcare centers including Southwest Child Care Early Learning Centers in Albuquerque, where she stayed until her death in 2023. She was the Director of the Center on Lomas Blvd and became the matriarch of the schools. Ms. Ethel ran free GED classes at the center in the evenings so that parents and applicants could qualify for jobs. She often wrote checks to parents in need, gathered up clothing, food and other necessities to pass along. The children did not see Ms. Ethel as a black woman, they saw her as we all saw her: the epitome of what it means to be a good human being with integrity and dignity. She singlehandedly did more for social justice and equality in her 87 years than most people will ever realize. She did it through example, through her strength of character and her acceptance of others. The Ethel Jones Johnson Scholarship provides funds to UNM students who have active involvement in African American Student Services.
