Stories

On International Women’s Day, we would like to announce the election of Cheryl P. Johnson, CEO of COTS, as the current board chair of New Detroit, Inc. Ms. Johnson is an experienced non-profit leader and the first person of color, and Black woman, to lead in the racial equity organization’s 55-year history.

“Cheryl is purpose-driven and accomplished. She and the board made history by finally electing the first person of color and Black woman as chair. As the longtime CEO of COTS, she transformed the organization’s business model into a sophisticated nonprofit enterprise, using the Passport to Self-Sufficiency model to change the legacy of generational poverty. Cheryl manages multiple facilities, with a budget of $8 million,” said New Detroit CEO Michael Rafferty.

In addition to her roles as COTS CEO and New Detroit’s board chair, Johnson also works to further the missions and growth of several local, regional, and state organizations through committed board service. Johnson said that with her line of work, when people think of racism and dealing with injustices that happen, which she refers to as “one of the greatest sins of the world,” it is no easy feat when discussing it.

Please read more on Ms. Johnson and her achievements at COTS and New Detroit, Inc. in the Michigan Chronicle article at: tinyurl.com/CJohnson-MIChronicle. To find ways to get involved with COTS, check out their profile on SHARE Detroit.