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Celebrating 50 Years of Impact: FVSU Names Stadium Suite for Arthur and Bernice Johnson

Posted on Oct 01, 2026 at 17:15 PM

FORT VALLEY, Ga. – Fort Valley State University honored longtime alumni and benefactors Arthur and Bernice Johnson with the naming and unveiling of the Arthur and Bernice Johnson Stadium Suite during a special ceremony before the first home game on September 19 at Wildcat Stadium.

The Johnsons, who have supported FVSU for more than 50 consecutive years, were recognized for their longstanding commitment to the university, its students and Wildcat Athletics. The ceremony brought together university leaders, alumni, friends and supporters to celebrate the couple’s enduring connection to their alma mater.

“Arthur and Bernice Johnson have built a remarkable partnership with Fort Valley State University through their generosity and consistent support of our students,” said Karen Wright, vice president for Advancement and executive director of FVSU Foundation. “Their giving has made a tangible difference in the lives of Wildcats, and their endowed scholarship ensures that their commitment to student success will continue for generations.”

Bernice Johnson, a native of Plains, Georgia, earned her degree in Home Economics from FVSU in 1972. Arthur Johnson, a native of Americus, Georgia, earned his degree in Business Administration in 1974. They live in Albany, GA. They are members of Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church and are active members with several other local organizations. The couple has been married for 52 years and have continued to invest in FVSU since their college years.

Their philanthropy includes a $500,000 commitment supporting FVSU students, Athletics and the university, as well as the Arthur & Bernice Johnson Scholarship Endowment. Established to provide ongoing support for students, the scholarship fund has helped more than 60 FVSU students and now guarantees a minimum of three scholarships each year.

Arthur Johnson served three years in the U.S. military, including a tour in Vietnam, before beginning his professional career. He spent 29 years with MillerCoors and is now the owner and CEO of Johnson Property Management LLC.

Bernice Johnson built a 34-year career dedicated to education and youth development. Her professional experiences include 4-H and Extension work with the University of Georgia and Clemson University, followed by more than two decades teaching Family and Consumer Sciences at Westover Comprehensive High School in Albany, GA.

"As first-generation college graduates in our families, blessings of our Lord, support of family, and our learning experiences at Fort Valley State College (FVSU), provided us a pathway to successful careers. We are grateful for the family-like support and nurturing we received at FVSC (FVSU) and strive to show our gratitude by giving back to FVSU to support student success."

The Johnsons have also maintained a longstanding connection to FVSU Athletics and the FVS Athletic Association. Their support of Wildcat Athletics, coupled with their commitment to student scholarships, reflects their belief in providing students with opportunities to succeed both inside and outside the classroom.

“This naming represents more than a gift to athletics,” said Daphnie Johnson, director of Athletics. “It represents decades of commitment to Fort Valley State University and to the students who wear the Wildcat uniform. Every person who enters this suite will see the Johnson name and be reminded of their dedication to this university.”

Following remarks from university leadership and the Johnsons, the couple joined university representatives for the unveiling of the sign. A reception followed in the newly named Arthur and Bernice Johnson Stadium Suite.

For more than five decades, Arthur and Bernice Johnson have demonstrated what it means to remain connected to and invested in one’s alma mater. Through scholarships, athletics support and their continued engagement with FVSU, the Johnsons have helped create opportunities for generations of Wildcats.

The Arthur and Bernice Johnson Stadium Suite will now serve as a lasting symbol of that commitment and their continued investment in the future of Fort Valley State University.

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