Tri-C Famous: Clarence Johnson

#TriCFamous is a bimonthly feature that introduces readers to the people who make the College work while providing a sneak peek into their lives off campus. 
 
Clarence Johnson, Ph.D., has taught mathematics at Tri-C for nearly 25 years. His passion for the subject began early — at 11, he helped his school’s mental math team win third place in a state tournament. He races calculators to keep his mind sharp and was recently recognized as a Black History Month 2023 Honoree by the Network of Minorities in Mathematical Sciences. Learn more about Clarence in this week’s Tri-C Famous!

1. As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up? 
I always wanted to be a math professor. I guess I can say “mission accomplished!”

2. Tell us about one of your hobbies.
I’m a chess fanatic. I play against the computer on a daily basis, and I also enjoy playing with others. I was a member of John Adams High School’s chess team. We were the first all-Black public high school team to win the state chess championship.

3. What are you most proud of?
My family, friends, colleagues and students. They’re kind and warmhearted, and they have many talents and accomplishments that make them the special people they are. 

Want to be Tri-C Famous? Email jarrod.zickefoose@tri-c.edu for a chance to be featured (or to nominate someone else!) 

March 28, 2023

By Beth Cieslik, 216-987-4538 or beth.cieslik@tri-c.edu