NAACP CEO Derrick Johnson On The Habits of True Leadership Resilience
As the NAACP convenes this week in Chicago for its National Convention, there could not be a more timely conversation than this one. In this powerful episode of The Power to Persist podcast, host Lamell McMorris sits down with NAACP President and CEO Derrick Johnson for an intimate discussion on the front lines of modern civil rights leadership. The conversation begins with a personal reflection on legendary Chicago journalist Vernon Jarrett—the founder of the NAACP's ACT-SO program—who selected a 13-year-old Lamell to serve as a student co-host on his weekly television program. That early opportunity became a defining lesson in the power of mentorship, exposure, and leadership.
Johnson shares deep insights into his own journey from a 1.8 high school GPA to leading one of America's most consequential organizations, illustrating the Dogged Determination required to overcome early obstacles and relentlessly show up for the movement.
Throughout the discussion, Johnson emphasizes that modern advocacy demands the Agility to pivot away from outdated playbooks, breaking down why 1960s tactics cannot solve 2026 challenges. Rather than allowing external systems to dictate the terms of progress, he champions the importance of Building a Network of collective resilience—connecting corporate governance with voting rights, strengthening mentorship, expanding representation through the NAACP Image Awards, investing in the next generation through ACT-SO, and aligning the global Black diaspora for lasting impact.
This episode is a compelling masterclass in institutional modernization, character-driven leadership, and the enduring persistence required to create meaningful change.
Cultivating the Next Generation: The NAACP ACT-SO Program A core part of the discussion highlights the NAACP's commitment to youth empowerment through the Afro-Academic, Cultural, Technological and Scientific Olympics (ACT-SO). This year-round achievement initiative is designed to recruit, stimulate, and encourage academic and cultural excellence among high school students. By competing in categories spanning STEM, humanities, business, and the arts, students receive the mentorship and training needed to succeed. Learn more about the program here: https://naacp.org/our-work/youth-programs/act-so-achievement-program
Looking Ahead: The 117th NAACP National Convention
The momentum of these civil rights initiatives culminates in Chicago, Illinois, for the 117th NAACP National Convention at McCormick Place. Running from July 18 to July 22, 2026, under the powerful theme "We, The People," this premier annual gathering brings together activists, allies, and innovative change-makers to build collective power and foster an intergenerational approach to advocacy. Secure your registration and learn more about the event https://naacp.org/convention
