Portia Johnson, Ph.D. profile and information
Learn more about Portia Johnson, Ph.D.
- Assistant Professor
- State Specialist
More bio information
Short Bio
Portia Johnson, Ph.D., is an Assistant Professor and Extension Specialist with a joint appointment with the Alabama Cooperative Extension System and the Department of Consumer and Design Sciences at Auburn University. As the Financial Resource Management Extension Specialist, her community programming includes adult and youth financial literacy, household money management, household disaster preparedness, and post-secondary career preparedness and financial aid decision-making. Johnson has authored and co-authored dozens of academic and extension publications and regularly delivers presentations at invited professional meetings. She has received over 21 honors and awards.
Education
Ph.D.University of Georgia2021
M.B.A.Arizona State University2012
BachelorUniversity of Georgia2007
Professional Experience
Assistant Professor & State Specialist, Auburn University, August 2021 – Present
Innovation
Portia Johnson’s research focuses on financial literacy, family financial well‑being, and economic resilience, especially for youth, college‑bound students, and underserved communities. She studies how people learn financial skills, how stress and confidence shape money decisions, and how structural issues—like heirs’ property and land ownership—affect wealth-building. Her work consistently connects research to practice, informing Extension programs that improve financial capability across Alabama and beyond.
Engagement
Portia Johnson’s outreach centers on large‑scale, research‑based financial education delivered through the Alabama Cooperative Extension System. She leads statewide programs like Alabama FAST, develops widely used financial tools and curricula, and partners with schools, agencies, and community organizations to expand access to financial knowledge. Her work reaches tens of thousands of youth and adults each year and has earned extensive national, regional, and state recognition for its impact.
