William Brendan Johnson — who goes by Brendan since he’s the fourth William Johnson in his family — is crafting a legacy.
Wagner College allowed him to achieve his dream of becoming a Division 1 defensive back on a full scholarship. Now, the business management major from Bowie, Maryland, is also the president of the Black Student Union and Student Government Association.
He’s been on the honor roll multiple times throughout his undergraduate career, volunteered at the Eagle Academy for Young Men of Staten Island and received the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Agent of Change Award for embodying King's vision of servant leadership.
Johnson is currently co-running The Battle of the Cans food drive to feed Liberian war refugees on Staten Island.
Q&A with Brendan
What do you have planned after graduation?
I plan to attend grad school at either the University of Maryland, Johns Hopkins University or Wagner.
What has been your most memorable Wagner moment?
My most memorable Wagner moment has to be Songfest 2023, it was one of the best nights of my life. I will never forget the memories and relationships I gained from that experience.
What was your favorite class at Wagner?
I have had many classes that I really enjoyed at Wagner. If I had to choose, I would say either Diversity Management, International Management or Special Topics in Sports.
What's your favorite spot on campus?
My favorite spot is Dhall, but nothing beats the oval when the weather is perfect.
What’s a fun fact about yourself?
I had heart surgery when I was 13.
What is a piece of advice you have for incoming freshmen?
Don't be scared to get outside your comfort zone. Meet new people and try everything. It's simple, but it will dramatically improve your experience at this school.
