Danita Johnson-Woods is a healthcare industry executive, author, speaker, columnist, and television commentator. Dr. Johnson-Woods is President and Chief Executive Officer of Edgewater Health a comprehensive behavioral and primary health care provider and child welfare services organization located in Gary, Indiana. She has held this position for over twenty years. At one time, Dr. Johnson-Woods was the only African-American President/CEO of an Indiana Division of Mental Health certified community mental health center in the state of Indiana.

Dr. Johnson-Woods specializes in organization turnaround and has contributed to the successful turnaround efforts of several health care and related organizations in her career.  Prior to joining Edgewater Systems, she held a number of high level senior leadership positions in various behavioral health and human services organizations.

Dr. Johnson-Woods is a graduate of Indiana University holding both a Bachelors and Masters Degrees in Public Administration.  She also holds a Masters degree in Social Service Administration and a graduate certificate in Health Administration and Policy from the University of Chicago.  Dr. Johnson-Woods also earned a Ph.D. in Human Services from Walden University.

Dr. Johnson-Woods’ areas of expertise include leadership development, mental health, women’s issues, and issues related to strengthening families. Her training and consulting styles as well as her motivational/inspirational speaking talents have received excellent reviews.  She is the author of several books. Her most recent book that was published in 2016 and titled The Unapologetic Woman. In this recent book, Dr. Johnson-Woods serves as a strong voice to issues and concerns women in leadership face in today’s workplace.

Dr. Johnson-Woods is very active in professional and civic activities and holds several seats on a variety of local and national boards of directors and advisory councils. Dr. Johnson-Woods is the recipient of numerous awards including the state of Indiana Governor’s Distinguished Hoosier Award. She is a 2013 inductee into the Northwest Indiana Business & Industry Hall of Fame. Her professional interests lie in improving overall community well being by working to impact policies and programs that affect at-risk children and families.

Dr. Johnson-Woods is an avid runner and fitness enthusiast. She has completed six marathons. Dr. Johnson-Woods is also an award-winning porcelain doll artist and collector. Her collection consists of more than 300 dolls. She enjoys gardening as well.  Danita is married and has three children, several grandchildren and three dogs.