Elementor #11627

Ernesta I. Johnson currently serves as the Sr. Director of Development and Community Affairs at Neighborhood House Association (NHA), one of San Diego County’s largest nonprofit social service organizations. After serving seven years as a Head Start Home Visitor, she was selected to participate in NHA’s executive internship program—an opportunity that helped launch her leadership career within the organization and ultimately led to her current role.

In her position, Ms. Johnson oversees fundraising, strategic partnerships, sponsorship development, and community engagement efforts for the agency. Throughout her tenure, she has played a key role in securing more than $8 million in funding and support for NHA programs and initiatives that serve children, families, and seniors across San Diego County. 

 Ms. Johnson holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Early Childhood Education and brings extensive business and leadership experience to her work. Prior to joining NHA, she built a successful career in the private sector and began her professional journey as an advertising sales account executive for Time Warner Cable. Her strong background in sales, relationship-building, and organizational leadership continues to support her success in nonprofit development and community affairs. 

 She is a member of the Pinnacle Honor Society, an alumna of the Executive Leadership Institute, and a graduate of the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce’s LEAD Impact program.

Born in Detroit, Michigan, Ms. Johnson has lived in San Diego County since the age of seven. Giving back and paying it forward has always been central to her personal and professional values. She is the proud mother of three adult children and the grandmother of two.