Meet Jay Johnson, Recipient of VSU’s 2026 Presidential Excellence Award for Staff

Jay Johnson has earned the 2026 Presidential Excellence Award for Classified Staff at Valdosta State University. He joined the VSU staff in Fall 2017 and currently serves as head athletic trainer for VSU Athletics and as a preceptor for two students. He is pictured with Dr. Donald J. Green, president of VSU.

VALDOSTA — Dr. Donald J. Green, president of Valdosta State University, has honored Jay Johnson with the 2026 Presidential Excellence Award for Classified Staff.

This distinguished recognition is an annual tradition at VSU, one that recognizes the high standards of service, initiative, reliability, professional attitude, exemplary job performance, and leadership of the university’s dedicated staff.

Johnson joined the VSU staff in Fall 2017 and currently serves as head athletic trainer for VSU Athletics, where he is responsible for all aspects of student-athlete healthcare. He also serves as a preceptor for two students, providing them with meaningful clinical experiences and opportunities to develop confidence, clinical reasoning, and professional skills while applying their knowledge in real-world settings. He previously served four years on VSU’s Council on Staff Affairs.

VSU: What advice do you have for anyone who wishes to demonstrate excellence in their current / future professional roles?

Johnson: It’s not about yourself. Take care of others, and they will take care of you. That’s the definition of community and family.