Audrey Johnson serves as the inaugural Executive Director of the Office of Social Equity, an independent executive agency established under Maryland’s Cannabis Reform Act of 2023. Appointed by Governor Wes Moore, Audrey is at the forefront of fostering economic opportunities and advancing equity within Maryland’s burgeoning adult-use cannabis market, with a particular focus on communities historically impacted by the War on Drugs.
With over two decades of experience in economic development, equity, and inclusion, Audrey has a proven track record of driving transformative change. Before joining the Moore – Miller Administration, she was the Senior Director for Economic Innovation and Strategy at Johns Hopkins University and Health System, where she spearheaded key initiatives in economic and neighborhood development, healthcare, and education across the Baltimore region. In this role, Audrey managed a multi-million dollar portfolio and led high-impact programs that strengthened the institution’s role as an anchor in the community. Her leadership was instrumental in launching groundbreaking initiatives such as the Innovation Fund for Community Safety and the Black Business Expo and Vendor Showcase, which significantly uplifted local businesses.
Prior to her tenure at Johns Hopkins, Audrey spent eight years with Kaiser Permanente, where she held senior roles in supply chain enterprise systems, procurement, and economic opportunity and inclusion. As the Regional Lead for Supplier Diversity and Economic Impact Strategy, she executed a robust strategy that resulted in a substantial increase in regional supplier diversity spend, directly benefiting local communities and contributing to the national economic impact goals.
Audrey’s influence extends beyond her professional roles. She is a dedicated civic leader, actively contributing to various organizations including the Baltimore Chapter of the National Association of Health Services Executives, where she served as President, and the iMentor Baltimore Regional Advisory Board. She also sits on the boards of Art with a Heart and the DC Community Anchor Partnership Network Advisory Board.
A graduate of Howard University with a Bachelor of Arts in Economics, Audrey furthered her education by earning an MBA in Finance from George Washington University. She is a recognized leader in her field, having completed leadership programs with the Greater Baltimore Committee and Johns Hopkins University.
Audrey’s commitment to equity, economic empowerment, and community engagement continues to shape her approach as she leads the Office of Social Equity, striving to create a more inclusive and fair future for all Marylanders.
