Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive, ultimately fatal disease that has no cure. 5.3 million Americans are estimated to have the disease today, with that number expected to grow as many as16 million by 2050. Since Johns’ arrival in 2005, the Alzheimer’s Association has built new momentum for its vision of a world without Alzheimer’s, including the first nationwide campaign to increase understanding and awareness about Alzheimer’s disease, an emphasis on accelerated treatment progress through the promotion of participation in clinical studies, a campaign to enhance early detection of the disease, tools designed to support both individuals with the disease and their caregivers, and targeted research funding to advance diagnosis and treatment.
Under Johns’ leadership, the Association has seen an increase in media attention to the cause and to the organization, with highlights including the annual release of the Alzheimer’s Association’s publication, Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures, the most cited source covering the broad spectrum of Alzheimer issues, and an increased focus on advocacy. In 2008, the Alzheimer’s Association transitioned the bi-annual International Conference on Alzheimer’s Disease, (ICAD), the world’s largest meeting on Alzheimer’s research, into an annual, Association-led conference. In 2010, the Nonprofit Times recognized the Alzheimer’s Association as one of its “50 Best Nonprofits to Work For.”
Before joining the Alzheimer’s Association, Johns spent more than 22 years with the American Cancer Society (ACS). In his final role at ACS, he was the executive vice president for strategic initiatives, responsible for the organization’s nationwide strategy, including information delivery, community programs, advocacy, marketing and fundraising.
Johns earned a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Eckerd College in St. Petersburg, Florida, and a Master’s degree in Business Administration from the Kellogg Graduate School of Management at Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois.
He serves on the boards of Research America and the National Health Council.