As a news writer and communications specialist at Virginia Tech from 1967 to 2007, Mary Ann H. Johnson provided writing, editing, and photography support to publicize the University's activities especially the work of Virginia Cooperative Extension
Writing
Wrote news releases and feature articles especially on consumer and family topics such as food safety and family finance to educate general public.
Editing
Edited several regular publications including a Virginia Tech alumni newsletter and several Virginia Cooperative Extension newsletters such as 4-H for Life, a quarterly news magazine for 4-H members.
Campaigns
Planned public relations and publicity campaigns to inform the citizens of the state about the activities of Extension such as its efforts to support youth development and agricultural businesses.
Interviewing
Hosted a weekly interview-style radio program.
National Awards
2006-National Federation of Press Women
2003-National Federation of Press Women
2003-Named Virginia Press Women Communicator of Achievement
2001-Agricultural Communicators of Excellence
1997-National Federation of Press Women
1996-Agricultural Communicators in Education (now Agricultural Communicators of Excellence)
1984-National Federation of Press Women
Membership
Virginia Press Women
Agriculture Communicators of Excellence
League of Women Voters of Montgomery County
Wilderness Road Chorus of Sweet Adelines International