ASHLAND — Shannon Johnson’s job search about three decades ago turned into 28 years of service related to local elections.
Johnson said her father-in-law at the time, John M. Leininger Jr., suggested she look into a job opening at the Ashland County Board of Elections.
Leininger was an Ashland County Commissioner at that time, she said.
“I did not know what I was getting into, but I’ve loved it ever since,” said Johnson, who is currently the director of the Ashland County Board of Elections.
“They say that it (the job) kind of get’s into your blood and I think that’s true because I go to conferences and see people that do the exact same thing and have been in the business just as long as I have,” she said.
Johnson’s career in Ashland was celebrated with a surprise retirement party Wednesday afternoon. Family, friends, peers and poll workers flooded in and out of the Cottage Street office space throughout the two-hour party.
The director plans to finalize her retirement at the end of February. She began her career at the Board as a clerk before moving up to deputy director and ultimately director.
“I’ve seen a lot of changes and I think that there is change on the horizon yet. But I think that it’s time for this next generation to handle those changes,” Johnson said.
Throughout her career, Johnson has helped roll out new pieces of election equipment throughout the county and remained dedicated to ensuring successful, transparent and fair elections in Ashland County.
“I’m very thankful for the years I’ve had here. The staff right now is amazing and it’s time to go. I can tell it’s time to move on,” she said.
Johnson is ‘synonymous’ with Ashland County elections
Ashland County Board of Elections Chair Andrew Keller, who joined the Board in 2014, has worked with Johnson periodically over the past decade.
Keller said she is a true professional.
“Everybody who has worked with Shannon (Johnson) recognizes she is passionate and serious about elections work,” he said. “Her name is synonymous with elections in Ashland County. That’s how much identity she has in this work.
“She leaves quite a legacy behind and we wish her the best in retirement. It will leave big shoes to fill because we take a lot of pride in elections administration in Ashland County.”