Purdue Nutrition Science alumna and Dining Services retiree honored by YWCA

YWCA Lafayette recognized Sarah C. Johnson’s contributions to the community in their annual Salute to Women awards ceremony. Johnson was honored as a Woman of Distinction on March 5, 2019.

Johnson spent her 37 year career working in Purdue Dining & Culinary Services. Rising from entry level to Director of Dining Services for University Residences, Johnson oversaw a nationally recognized 10 year project to overhaul Purdue’s residential dining programs and facilities.

After graduating from West Lafayette High School, Purdue (1969, Nutrition Science) and the University of Iowa, Johnson returned to Purdue as a registered dietitian with a specialty in administrative dietetics.

During her 37 year career at Purdue, Johnson oversaw a nearly $70 million revitalization of university dining facilities that spanned a decade. Purdue’s award-winning-dining halls have been nationally recognized. Johnson’s leadership has established Purdue as having one of the best university dining services in the country.

During her tenure at Purdue, Johnson mentored students in campus service and leadership, band and orchestra, and the Reamer Club. She has held leadership positions in several community organizations and has advocated for their causes. In recognition of her contributions, the Sarah Johnson Student Employee of the Year Award was named in her honor.

About Salute to Women

Salute to Women is a celebration of remarkable women in the Greater Lafayette Community. The first Salute to Women was held on March 15, 1974. Realizing that the local community lacked an environment of support for women and that many women were not being recognized for their achievements, the Lafayette Women’s Political Caucus conceived the idea of a Salute to Women awards dinner. The Purdue Women’s Caucus joined in as a sponsor. YWCA Greater Lafayette became the sole sponsoring organization in 2000.

About YWCA Lafayette

YWCA Lafayette was established in 1929, marking the 90th anniversary of the organization. YWCA is dedicated to eliminating racism, empowering women and promoting peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all.