Best and Brightest: Don Johnson

Don Johnson

Partnership Activation Manager

South Carolina Stingrays

Charleston

Age 24

Born and raised in North Carolina in a hard-working family, I learned the value of dedication and responsibility at a young age by working in our family-owned construction business as soon as I was able. Starting in construction taught me the importance of hard work, accountability, and perseverance. Those lessons helped me graduate high school with my associate's degree and complete my bachelor's degree in less than two years. Gaining professional experience in North Carolina and Oklahoma ultimately led me to my current role with the South Carolina Stingrays, where I have built a reputation as a versatile and dependable member of the front office. As I continue building my future in Charleston, I joined the Charleston Young Professionals Advisory Council to develop both professionally and personally. Through my role with the Stingrays, I have become more involved in the community by volunteering, supporting community initiatives, and helping with local youth sports programs. Looking ahead, my goal is to continue growing within the hockey industry and earn a management position with either the South Carolina Stingrays or another professional hockey organization.

Favorite Quote and Why: “Do what you can, with what you have, where you are.” – Theodore Roosevelt. As I look to work my way up in the sports industry, this quote helps ground me and reminds me not to look too far ahead. It's easy to focus on where I want my career to go, but this quote reminds me to be present in the position I'm in right now. I can't control when the next opportunity will come, but I can control the effort I put in, the relationships I build, and how much I learn each day. If I make the most of where I am now, I'll be better prepared for whatever comes next.

Definition of a Successful Leader: A successful leader is someone willing to get in the trenches with their team. Leads by example. Doesn’t tell but does. A representative figure for the team to look up to. Someone who puts their own needs aside to make sacrifices to elevate the team.

Advice to 18-Year-Old Self: Work daily to positively impact the lives of those around you and bring them joy. If you focus on that, career and life success will come. Don’t focus on titles/work; focus on impacting those around you, and it’ll all work out.