Ronald Johnson, a professor of the practice at the College of Engineering, has been appointed a Civilian Aide to the Secretary of the Army (CASA). This is a prestigious distinction that underlines Johnson's commitment to Army members and their families.

As a CASA, Johnson will "help tell the Army story to the American public," according to a letter from Secretary of the Army Eric Fanning. 

Johnson, an alumnus of the Stewart School of Industrial & Systems Engineering (ISyE), is also a retired major general, and he teaches at ISyE as a Faculty Leadership Fellow. 

On Jan. 9, he will attend an investiture ceremony for new CASAs at the Pentagon's Hall of Heroes. His role will also include raising support for soldiers and helping civilians understand Army policies.

In addition to 32 years of military service, Johnson’s career has included time as the NBA’s senior vice president for referee operations. He holds a master’s degree from Georgia Tech in operations research, a master’s degree in strategic planning from the School of Advanced Military Studies, and a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering and mathematics from the United States Military Academy at West Point.