Darryl Johnson, '07 - 2020 Frank Kirkpatrick Award 

Darryl Johnson describes himself as a quiet leader. But the work that he has been able to accomplish over the past 17 years as executive director of Riverworks Development Corporation speaks volumes. From building commercial builds, pocket parks to creating affordable housing to a developing a recreational trail, Riverworks has helped attract more than $25 million in new investment - from commercial builds to pocket parks to affordable housing to a recreational trail - into Milwaukee’s northeast industrial corridor and created more than 90 new jobs. “My success and the success of the organization is really built on alliances and partnerships and getting people to come together to address those important issues that are negatively impacting our communities,” Johnson said.
-Greater Milwaukee Foundation website

Dr. Jeanette Mitchell, '01 - 2020 President’s Leadership in Racial Equity and Social Justice Award 

Throughout Dr. Jeanette Mitchell’s career, which has spanned the philanthropic, corporate, nonprofit and education sectors, she was always intrigued about the idea of what made a good leader.

“In order to grow as a leader, you must be able to have a mindset of learning and service,” said Mitchell, now chief creative officer of a consulting firm called Leadership By Dr. Jeanette. “It is not for your own benefit; it is for the larger system. If you look at yourself as a servant leader, then you can be more successful.”

Mitchell has certainly been one of those, particularly within the past two decades in her work around leadership development. She leads to serve and helps develop others, particularly people of color, to do the same.
-Greater Milwaukee Foundation website