Johnson Institute Staff
Thomas Rains
Thomas Rains is Executive Director of the Johnson Institute and its first employee, having joined in the summer of 2019. Previously, Thomas advocated for education policies to increase college and career readiness across Alabama. He has worked as a middle school teacher in the Mississippi Delta, a journalist covering finance in New York, and as a researcher of politics and policy in Washington, DC. He is a member of the advisory board for Teach For America-Alabama (previously Vice Chair) and is a member of the Family Guidance Center of Montgomery’s Success by Six advisory board. Thomas is a graduate of Leadership Montgomery Legacy Class XXXV and the Alabama Leadership Initiative. He holds a Master of Public Administration from Columbia University and dual bachelor’s degrees in history and journalism from Boston University. An Atlanta native, Thomas was raised in Birmingham and Lanett, Alabama. He and his family have called Montgomery home since 2011.
Jennifer B. Rogers
Jennifer B. Rogers is Director of Development of the Johnson Institute. Jennifer was previously Director of Development at the Junior League of Montgomery where she also served as President. Her work and service with the Junior League of Montogmery helped grow the Women’s Leadership Summit, Human Trafficking awareness, and foster leadership opportunities for women. Jennifer has also worked with the national education grant Gear Up, and has served as an Education Coordinator and leader for community outreach for public schools. Jennifer serves on the Montgomery Catholic Strategic Planning Committee as a chair for Marketing and Communications, and a parent liaison for the Board and volunteers for her children's activities. Jennifer has also led strategic planning initiatives for nonprofit schools and organizations in the Montgomery community. She holds a Masters in Education from Auburn Montgomery and an undergraduate degree in Child Development and Family Studies with a minor in Child Life from Louisiana Tech University.
Ashlen Nettles
Ashlen Nettles is Administrative Coordinator at the Johnson Institute. With a strong background in paralegal support, executive assistance, and operations management, Ashlen brings a wealth of experience to her role. Before joining the Johnson Institute, Ashlen honed her skills as an experienced professional, showcasing proficiency in various aspects of the legal field. She has a proven track record of conducting comprehensive legal research, expertly drafting legal documents, and efficiently managing cases. Ashlen is known for her exceptional organizational and communication skills. She approaches each task with enthusiasm and a commitment to excellence, always eager to embrace new challenges and seek opportunities to contribute to the team's success. Ashlen holds a Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies from Faulkner University. As a proud native of Montgomery, AL, Ashlen enjoys spending quality time with her husband Eric and family, reflecting her strong sense of community and commitment to work-life balance.
Joyia Davis
Joyia Davis is Program Director of the Johnson Institute. Joyia has been in the museum field since 2015 most recently as the Education Outreach Coordinator at the Alabama Museum of Natural History. Joyia is a dedicated museum educator who is passionate about facilitating learning experiences for diverse groups of people. Her previous work experience includes the Alabama Department of Archives and History, Dumbarton House, the National Museum of African American History and Culture, Smithsonian Early Enrichment Center, and the National Air and Space Museum. Joyia has taught in the Museum Studies Certificate Program at the University of Alabama and served on several boards committed to education, outreach, and service. She holds a Master of Arts in Teaching from George Washington University and a bachelor’s degree in Anthropology from the University of Alabama.