Originally from the Boston area, Julie Johnson joined the UNLV community as a graduate student in English in 1987, where she taught English composition and literature courses for several years. Prior to joining the College of Fine Arts, she was an academic advisor for student athletes. Johnson joined the college in 2007 as the Assistant Director of the Advising Center. After serving as Director of Advising for 10 years, she moved into her current position as the Director of Student Success Initiatives, a position that allows her to work one-on-one with students throughout their time at UNLV. She also teaches the college’s First Year Seminar and introductory courses with the Film Department. Johnson earned her BA in English/journalism from Westfield State College; her M.A. in English from UNLV, and she will graduate in May 2026 with an MFA in screenwriting.