Ruth Johnson is a community-focused public policy advocate. Her policy and advocacy work is grounded in helping community stakeholders use their collective power and voices to improve their lives and their neighborhoods. She considers it an honor and privilege to serve as the Public Policy Director and as an advocate for the community development sector, Detroit neighborhoods, and Detroiters. Ruth is known as a dynamic leader and a joyful servant with a sense of humor.  

Ruth has extensive nonprofit management experience in Detroit, statewide and nationally. She has managed and coordinated teams, projects, and coalitions related to housing, public transit and mobility, education, health disparities, workforce development, and youth development.  

As a small business owner, she has provided training and consulting services to small to medium-sized nonprofit organizations and for-profit enterprises throughout the state. As an attorney, Ruth has represented individuals, businesses, healthcare providers, educational institutions, and public entities in state and federal courts in personal injury, product liability, discrimination, and labor matters.

Recently, Ruth was an adjunct faculty member at Wayne State University Law School from which she graduated. She co-taught a clinical course focusing on accessible and affordable housing in Detroit. She serves on the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago’s Advisory Council on Small Business, Community and Economic Development, Agriculture and Labor. The Advisory Council, comprised of leaders from five states advises the Bank leadership about current economic conditions and emerging issues in their industries and communities. Previously, Ruth received a mayoral appointment to serve on the City of Detroit Housing Commission.

Ruth enjoys volunteering. She has served on various nonprofit boards. She particularly enjoys helping children discover their creative gifts through drama and puppet ministries. In addition to seeing Ruth running around town, you might see her running on a track.