Today we’d like to introduce you to Tiffany Johnson.
Hi Tiffany, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I had a challenging upbringing, becoming a teenage parent with limited support at home. While the road was often uncertain, one thing remained constant: my passion for owning a business. That dream gave me something to hold on to—a vision that fueled me through every hardship.
In 2008, I was managing a Burger King restaurant when a major shift occurred. The company was sold, and the new leadership required all managers to hold a college degree. Despite my experience and dedication, I didn’t meet that requirement and was laid off. It was a discouraging moment, but it also lit a fire in me. I realized that if I wanted stability, growth, and influence, I would need to invest in myself—starting with education.
The following year, I enrolled at Metropolitan Community College (MCC) as a business transfer student. Earning my associate degree there was not just a milestone—it was a mindset shift. I then went on to Bellevue University, where I completed an accelerated bachelor’s degree in business management. While studying, I turned my longtime passion into action and launched SkinsoDark, an apparel brand designed to uplift and empower people of color. The goal was more than fashion—it was about representation, cultural pride, and inspiring self-love through identity-affirming clothing.
That entrepreneurial spirit never left me. In 2020, I earned my Master’s in Business Science, further sharpening my skills and broadening my vision. I’m currently restructuring SkinsoDark to align with new goals and community needs, and I plan to launch a personalized math tutoring service by the end of this year. Both ventures serve a shared purpose: to educate, empower, and elevate others—especially those who, like me, have had to navigate life’s toughest moments with limited support.
Today, I teach and advise business students at MCC. Standing in the very place where my journey restarted is incredibly meaningful. I don’t just teach business principles—I mentor students to believe in themselves, advocate for their future, and explore entrepreneurship as a tool for liberation and legacy.
Everything I’ve been through—every obstacle, every restart—has shaped my mission: to build a life and career rooted in purpose, ownership, and transformation. And now, I have the honor of helping others do the same.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
No, it hasn’t been a smooth road—but I truly wouldn’t change a thing. Every step, every setback, and every detour helped shape who I am today. I believe the path I’ve walked was designed for me, and I’m grateful for the lessons it’s taught me.
One of the biggest challenges I faced was becoming a teen parent. That experience required me to grow up quickly and make major sacrifices. While others my age were attending prom and enjoying their youth, I was working long hours and balancing school—sometimes missing out on social milestones. These sacrifices also created distance between me and my siblings, as our lives were unfolding in very different ways. Still, I wouldn’t trade those moments because they built the resilience and focus that ground me today.
Another struggle was identifying my true academic and career passion. I like to say “the third time was the charm.” I began college as a traditional student with hopes of becoming an OB-GYN. After taking time off, I returned to pursue a degree in criminal justice. It wasn’t until I was laid off from a management role—due to not having a college degree—that everything clicked. That moment of disappointment sparked a new fire in me. I realized that business, leadership, and education were at the core of what I was meant to do. From that point on, I committed myself to higher learning and personal development—and I haven’t looked back since.
Every struggle helped me grow, and every pivot led me closer to my purpose. That’s why I now dedicate my career to empowering others to find their own path, even if it doesn’t start out as planned.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I currently work at Metropolitan Community College (MCC), where I’ve been dedicated to student success for the past 14 years. I began as a business and math tutor, transitioned to Tutoring Supervisor, and for the past three years, I’ve been teaching business courses including Financial Literacy, Business Management, Communication, Entrepreneurship, and Marketing. I as well advise scholarship students.
I specialize in student-centered support—both academically and personally. I’m known for going beyond the classroom: providing holistic guidance, connecting students with the right resources, and truly seeing each student for who they are. My mission is to remove barriers, build confidence, and create a culture where every student feels supported and capable.
I’m proud of many accomplishments, but three especially stand out. First, I’m proud of my personal journey. As a teen parent with limited support, the odds weren’t in my favor—but I turned challenges into motivation and earned multiple degrees, including a Master’s in Business Science.
Second, I’m honored to serve as a Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) advisor. Receiving the Paragon Advisor Award during the pandemic was a defining moment. It recognized the energy and care I poured into students when they needed it most—helping them stay connected, resilient, and hopeful.
Third, I spearheaded data and strategy efforts in the Learning and Tutoring Center before “analytics” became a buzzword. By collaborating with Institutional Effectiveness and faculty, I helped identify high-challenge courses and launched targeted tutoring and early online support services that are still in place today.
What sets me apart? I lead with heart and hustle. I show up for students with empathy, creativity, and consistency. Whether it’s creating innovative programming, solving tough problems, or celebrating the small wins, I bring a mix of real-world experience, deep compassion, and unshakable commitment to helping students win.
What’s next?
My future plans are rooted in legacy. I want to pass the baton by pouring into my children, who are truly my air. As they transition deeper into adulthood, it’s important to me to guide them, show them the ropes, and help integrate them into my businesses—while also supporting them in building their own paths.
I’m also a proud grandmother, and my grandson Gabby brings me so much joy. I look forward to being actively present in his life and embracing the moments I may have missed while raising my own children. This new chapter gives me the opportunity to show up in a softer, more intentional way.
Professionally, I’m planning to launch my individualized math tutoring service—an exciting venture that combines my strengths in education with my passion for helping others succeed.
I also see a big move in my future—relocating to a new city for a fresh start and new opportunities. Ultimately, I look forward to whatever brings growth, love, music, and purpose into my life. Change excites me, and I embrace it with an open heart.
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