Blake Johnson

J. Blake Johnson is a Professor of Art at Saginaw Valley State University (SVSU), where he has taught since 2007. He specializes in graphic design and web design education, and leads SVSU Cardinal Solutions, an interdisciplinary program connecting students with real-world clients in the Great Lakes Bay Region. His work emphasizes hands-on learning, earning him the 2024 NEA Foundation Award for Teaching Excellence and the 2023 MEA Distinguished Servant of Public Education Award.

Education: Associate in Art (BYU), BFA (ArtCenter College of Design), MFA (University of Idaho). He has held visiting roles at Shikoku University (Japan, 2013) and Shenyang Aerospace University (China, 2016).

Research focuses on bridging academic theory with practical application, particularly through collaborative, interdisciplinary projects. His Cardinal Solutions program has engaged over 325 students since 2013, combining design services with academic credit.

Award recognition highlights his advocacy for equity in education, community engagement, and innovative teaching methods. He remains active in professional development, emphasizing the role of educators in fostering democratic values and racial justice in public education.