Audrey Johnson

Maryland Office of Social Equity

Audrey Johnson serves as executive director of the Maryland Office of Social Equity, a governor-appointed role in which she was charged with launching a new independent executive office during a historic period of statewide transformation. Tasked with translating legislative intent into actionable systems that promote equity, accountability and economic mobility, her work includes designing and implementing social equity programs, advancing reinvestment strategies for communities disproportionately impacted by prior cannabis criminalization, supporting new entrepreneurs and shaping statewide approaches to restorative justice within a regulated market. The role requires strategic leadership, public accountability and sustained collaboration across government, industry and community partners.

Johnson has intentionally aligned her professional path with values-driven leadership, choosing roles that allow her to create opportunity, expand access and support others in realizing their potential. This sustained commitment reflects resilience, discipline and a belief that leadership should serve something greater than self.

She also serves on the Regional Advisory Board for iMentor Baltimore, where she mentors first-generation college students. That work spans academic persistence, leadership development, career readiness and confidence-building, including exposure to professional pathways and long-term goal setting. Several mentees have successfully completed college and transitioned into professional careers, citing consistent mentorship and encouragement as pivotal to their success.

This is an honoree profile from The Daily Record’s Top 100 Women awards. Information for this profile was sourced from the honoree’s application for the award. The honoree profiles were written using an artificial intelligence program and supported by honoree nominations, applications and letters of recommendation. Each profile was reviewed, fact-checked and edited for accuracy by The Daily Record’s editorial staff.