Carol Anne Johnson is well known in the Bemidji community as a tireless advocate and leader for the safe and healthy life of children in her position as director of the Healthy Community Healthy Kids. Since being selected, Johnson has taken a position as executive director of the Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Red River Valley, located in Fargo, North Dakota.

Florence Hedeen, Women's Fund advisory committee chair, spoke to the group about the role of the Women's Fund in the region and the Community Builder recognition program. John Pugleasa, executive director of the Beltrami Area Service Collaborative and Johnson's friend and colleague, told of Johnson's extraordinary accomplishments and contributions to the community, highlighting points that fit the definitions of Community and Builder. He stated that Johnson provided visionary and committed leadership in developing what has become one of the premier healthy youth initiatives in the state.

Pugleasa said, "Carol has not only helped me as I have grown as a professional, she has helped make Bemidji a better place for kids." He added, "People like Carol are the glue that holds us together."

Rebecca Snyder, who worked closely with Johnson and submitted her nomination, spoke about what their relationship has meant. "Carol has been an outstanding mentor to me," she said. "She is able to challenge people – you, me and the community to do better – to grow, to achieve and do our best."