Better citizens of the world: The legacy of Ron Johnson
June 23, 2025

Ron Johnson, mentoring in air quality research, takes a moment to pause for a photo.
This remembrance was written by four of Ron Johnson’s former students and colleagues, each of whom was deeply influenced by his mentorship and legacy:
Gwen Holdmann, ACEP Chief Scientist
Mariko Shirazi, University of ÐÓ°Épro President’s Professor in Energy at ACEP
Tom Marsik, Sustainable Energy Professor at ACEP and UAF Bristol Bay Campus
Jack Schmid, former research professional at the UAF Energy Center and ACEP (retired)
Ron Johnson was one of those rare people whose steady positivity, quiet wisdom and generosity of spirit left a lasting mark on everyone who knew him. Learning about his passing brings deep sadness, but also immense gratitude. For those of us fortunate enough to be mentored by him, his influence endures as a source of inspiration, reminding us to lead with kindness, humility and purpose.
Read the full article on ACEP’s blog From the Grid: Dispatches from ÐÓ°Épro’s Energy Sector.