Leigh Johnson named Chief of Staff of DoWEA Europe

The Department of War Education Activity (DoWEA) Europe Region announced the selection of Leigh Johnson as Chief of Staff for DoWEA Europe.

Johnson brings extensive experience in human resources, organizational leadership and federal service to her new role. She currently serves as Chief of Staff for the Europe West District in Brussels, where she supports district leadership in advancing strategic priorities and operational effectiveness.

Prior to this assignment, Johnson served as Chief of Human Resources for the Pacific Region HR Advisory Support Branch. In that role, she led and oversaw all aspects of human resources advisory services supporting three geographically dispersed school districts. She served as the principal advisor to the Pacific Region Director for Student Excellence and district superintendents on HR policy, procedures and workforce management.

Previously, Johnson was the Human Resources Supervisor for the DoWEA Europe West District, where she managed a full range of HR functions and services. She advised the district superintendent on all human resources matters, represented leadership at garrison command meetings and worked with stakeholders at all levels to resolve workforce issues in accordance with established regulations.

Before joining DoWEA, Johnson served at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center, where she helped implement workforce systems, identified training requirements and coordinated with contract management teams. She also worked closely with budget and logistics offices to ensure proper resource allocation.

Her federal career includes positions with the Defense Logistics Agency, Department of the Army and U.S. Army Medical Command. Prior to her civilian service, Johnson served in the United States Army, providing human resources and logistical support, including property accountability and inventory management.

“Ms. Johnson’s breadth of experience, strategic insight and commitment to supporting military-connected students and families make her an invaluable addition to the Europe Region team,” said Dr. Michelle Howard Brahaney, DoWEA Europe Region Director for Student Excellence. “Her leadership will strengthen region operations and help ensure we continue delivering excellence for every student and families.”

Johnson holds a Master of Business Administration with a concentration in human resource management and a Bachelor of Science in business administration.

She will play a key role in advancing the Europe Region’s mission to deliver excellence in education for military-connected students and families—supporting 25,000 students across 64 schools in four districts, spanning eight countries and four time zones.