Dr.
Shuh-Marraka
Johnson

My Journey

I am a passionate learner deeply committed to making a difference in my community and beyond. I have completed my Ph.D. in Urban and Regional Planning with a 4.0 GPA at Jackson State University, where I’ve been diving deep into Environmental Justice, focusing on how city-owned parks in Birmingham, AL, and Jackson, MS, can better serve communities of color. This research is close to my heart because I’ve always been driven by the idea of creating genuinely equitable spaces for everyone, especially MY people.During my Doctoral journey, I have been blessed with amazing fellowship opportunities. In 2021, I had an all-expenses-paid fellowship in Washington, DC, just a mile from the White House. In 2022, I interned with the federal government at the Bureau of Land Management, and in 2023, I had a remote fellowship with a DC-based nonprofit partnering with the city of Birmingham. These experiences have been enriching, both professionally and personally.But my journey didn’t start with my Ph.D. I earned my Master of Science in Hazardous Materials Management and my Bachelor of Science in Biology at Jackson State University, where I got involved in some exciting research projects, including studying Hyperinsulinemia and Melanoma proliferation. I've always gravitated toward work that tackles tough challenges, whether in public health, environmental issues, or social justice.Professionally, I’ve been fortunate to work in roles that align perfectly with my values. As a Senior Strategic Researcher at a nonprofit, I work to create better job opportunities for underrepresented communities in Mississippi. My work involves analyzing industries that benefit from public funding and advocating for community benefits agreements to ensure those economic advantages reach the people who need them most. I love collaborating with others who share my passion for economic and environmental justice, whether we’re working on labor rights or advocating for better working conditions.Throughout my career, I’ve taken on diverse roles that have helped shape my approach to social and environmental justice. From teaching students as an adjunct instructor, substitute teacher, and peer educator to developing lesson plans for the National Parks Service and serving as a Trails Apprentice with the Partnership for the National Trails System, each experience has enriched my perspective on creating meaningful change.It’s not just about work, though—volunteering has always been central to my identity. I started giving back in college as a Peer Health Educator, and over the years, I’ve mentored students, taught children’s church, and served as a Big Sister. These days, I’m still involved with causes I care about, from volunteering with The National Map Corps to helping with urban planning projects for the Dynamite Hill-Smithfield Land Trust in Birmingham, AL. I am also a member of my local NAACP chapter, where I am currently in the running for an E-board position. I currently chair the Public Relations Committee for the Jackson State University National Alumni Association’s Rankin County Chapter, which has been a rewarding way to stay connected to my alma mater, THEE I LOVE.And then there’s my love for travel! Throughout my Doctoral journey, I have been blessed to explore some incredible places with my husband and life partner, Nicolas. Together, we’ve traveled to many exciting countries across three continents. Closer to home, we’ve traveled nearly the entire West Coast and Midwest, most of the South, and parts of the East Coast. These adventures have given me memories I’ll cherish forever, and I’m excited to keep exploring.My path hasn’t been without its challenges, though. In 2017, I battled depression, and my grades suffered, but I thank God for His guidance in helping me push through. In 2018, after completing my bachelor's degree, I struggled to find full-time work. It extended until well after I earned my Master's. I prayed, prayed, prayed for a job I would love. As I approach my 30th birthday in February, I look back feeling blessed and highly favored -- especially with the help of therapy. God has carried me through, and I’m excited for what’s next!Through it all—my research, work, travels, and highs and lows—I remain committed to learning, growing, and giving back. I aim to use my skills and education to establish adequate green spaces in Black and minority neighborhoods, educate Black communities on attaining and maintaining a sustainable environment, and increase environmental responsibility in underserved areas affected by environmental health risks. I want to inevitably make a change and “give hope like the fountains you throw pennies in.” I’m grateful for my “parentals,” chosen family (Johnsons), close family, extended family, friends, classmates, peers, and especially my "boo," Nicolas, who has been by my side through everything. Here's to more adventures in life and in travel, growth, and peace!

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1. What time does everything start?
Please check the events tab.
Note: Doors open at 12:45 pm. Commencement doors usually close 15 minutes before the start of the ceremony or once the building reaches capacity. I would suggest that you arrive early.2. Am I allowed to bring in my purse/bag into the Hooding or Commencement exercises?
Only clear bags or small clutches are allowed. Please check the JSU website for more updates.3. Where do I park?
Commencement and Hooding Ceremony: There will be designated personnel directing traffic and instructing you where to park.
E-Center: Parking is on the sides and in front of the building.4. If I arrive late to the commencement, what should I do?
There should be overflow in the Engineering building or the Rose E. McCoy auditorium.5. What if I can't make it?
If you cannot make it, you can watch the live stream. Check the "Can't make it?" tab.6. Who is invited?
Everyone is invited to the commencement. There are no tickets or capacity limits for who can attend the ceremony at Jackson State.For the graduation party, the graduate is asking you to RSVP if you plan to attend. It is not the graduate’s job to make sure you RSVP nor will the graduate be RSVPing for anyone. If you do not RSVP, it is assumed you will not be attending.7. What about gifts?
Please feel free to give anything; if you do, the registry guides you on things I would like. And if you prefer to give cash or check, that is great, too. Ya girl, accepts all forms of payments.If you plan to come to the party, please make sure to RSVP by November 22, 2024, to ensure we have an accurate headcount. If you do not RSVP, it is assumed that you will not be attending.Other Questions
8. What should I do if I want a copy of your dissertation?
It is published on ProQuest.com, but you need a subscription via your school or organization or must pay to access it. I have the pdf link below for your reading convenience. If you are tech savvy, I suggest downloading a copy and printing it yourself --or saving the environment and keeping it digital. The world is your oyster. Do what makes you happy :). I can do that if you would like me to help you print it out.9. How long did it take to write your dissertation?
I started writing in the Fall of 2021 as a writing assignment in Research Methodology. I started strategically writing in Fall 2022 after passing my 2-day, 16-hour comprehensive exams in Spring 2022. By April 2024, I had the Dissertation completed and was awaiting confirmation to defend. Although I was so eager to defend, it inevitably got pushed back. Things happen! It was out of my control.10. When did you defend your Dissertation?
Tuesday, September 10, 2024 at Noon.

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Thank you

Thank you to everyone who has played a part during this journey. I love each and every one of you!

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