Leadership Morgan Hill recognizes exemplary community members
each year who not only lead, but inspire others to become community
leaders themselves. This year’s Leadership Excellence Award will go
to philanthropist and local business owner Mike Johnson. He will be
honored at an evening outdoor fundraiser at Jason-Stephens Winery
Aug. 6.
MORGAN HILL – Leadership Morgan Hill recognizes exemplary community members each year who not only lead, but inspire others to become community leaders themselves. This year’s Leadership Excellence Award will go to philanthropist and local business owner Mike Johnson.
Johnson will be honored at an evening outdoor fundraiser at Jason-Stephens Winery Aug. 6.
“The award recognizes those whose vision and leadership advance the spirit of community and charity; reflect courage and insight; and inspire others to lead in a like manner. And that is a perfect description of Mike Johnson,” said Ken Meagor, LMH board chairman.
Johnson is the owner of Johnson Lumber Ace Hardware and Johnson Garden Center in Morgan Hill, and Ace Hardware stores in Hollister and Salinas. A 20-year resident of Morgan Hill and from a family steeped in community service, Johnson is a generous supporter of churches, schools, youth sports, scouting and many other nonprofit organizations.
In addition to being a generous community supporter and philanthropist, Johnson is widely admired and respected for his always positive attitude, his sense of humor, his business acumen and his dedication to his family, according to a press release.
Johnson will receive his Leadership Excellence Award medal at the Aug. 6 tribute dinner and benefit. Tickets are $95 per person and reservations for this gala event are available now at www.leadershipmorganhill.org. A sellout crowd of 200 community leaders, supporters of LMH and friends of the honoree are expected to attend. In a outdoor setting among vineyards and under an oak canopy, the event will include a silent auction and a gourmet dinner. At the request of the honoree, the recognition program will be abbreviated for music and dancing to Morgan Hill’s favorite band, The Usual Suspects.
In keeping with the character of the honoree, dress for the event is casual for summer fun in the vineyard.
The honorary committee for the event is chaired by LMH board member Dana Ditmore and Linda Withrow, also a LMH Board member, is chairing the event committee.
Honorees are selected by a blue-ribbon panel of community leaders and former Leadership Excellence Award recipients.
Funds raised will benefit the nonprofit Leadership Morgan Hill educational organization, now it in its 17th year. LMH provides insight, tools and training to enable and inspire leaders in all walks of life to give back to the Morgan Hill community through service, according to the release. LMH graduates are found in leadership positions throughout the community in government, education, business and nonprofit organizations.
