Jonathan Johnson

2024-2025 Obama Foundation USA Leader

Headshot of Jonathan Johnson, 2024-2025 Obama Foundation USA Leader

Founder and CEO, Rooted School Foundation

Portland, Oregon

Jonathan Johnson is the founder and chief executive officer at Rooted School Foundation, an organization based in New Orleans that aims to support underserved youth in their path to higher education. A first generation college graduate himself, he launched a multiyear direct cash transfer to more than 1,600 high school seniors across four states to alleviate financial strain, bolster financial literacy, improve academic performance, and foster upward mobility. Jonathan has raised more than $18 million in grants for his foundation.

Your support turns hope into action

Donate to the Barack Obama Foundation.

The Barack Obama Foundation is registered as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization (EIN 46-4950751).

Meet the 2024-2025 United States Leaders

undefined

More about the Leaders Program

A headshot of a young woman smiling at the camera. The young woman has olive skin and brown eyes. She has dark curly hair that hits her shoulders and is wearing a blue denim shirt.

Leaders

For emerging leaders who have demonstrated a commitment to advancing the common good.

Learn More
A person wearing a hoodie with the hood up is shown in profile, crouching down to light a candle. She is seen in profile in the glow of candlelight coming from dozens of votives surrounded by assorted flowers. A set of small votive candles are arranged in the shape of a heart near the person’s foot. Six heart-shaped red balloons float above the vigil.
  • The Center
  • Building the Center
Future water garden to honor Ann Dunham, be graced by Maya Lin sculpture

Join other Obama alumni in coming together to support the naming of the Water Garden at the Obama Presidential Center in honor of the life and legacy of President Obama’s mother, Ann Dunham—as a gift for the President’s 61st birthday.

Learn more
placeholder
  • Defending Democracy
  • Leaders
Copenhagen Democracy Summit
Learn more
President Obama speaks on a panel. In the background is a board that reads, "CHICAGO." It is a bright blue color with the Chicago map on the right side.
  • Watch
  • Barack Obama
Watch: President Obama shares the vision of the presidential center

Watch President Obama share his vision for the Obama Presidential Center during a surprise visit with supporters and stakeholders—a vision for a public space that will honor history, help revitalize the South Side, and connect people throughout the communi

Learn more