Vital Vaqueros shines a light on the individuals who help City College upkeep its reputation of being a favorable campus to study at.

This week, The Channels underlines the work of Christopher Johnson, the associate dean of student affairs and grievance officer.

Along with those roles, he oversees several different areas across the college’s departments and programs, including DSPS, Student Health Services, the Veterans’ Support Program, the Office of Student Life and is an advisor for the Associated Student Government.

“Someone can come here and not just pursue a degree, but they can also pursue a certificate in many different things,” Johnson said. “That can be culinary, that can be mechanical, engineering or marine diving or whatever you want to do.”

A graduate of the State University of New York at Cobleskill, Salisbury University and Boston College, Johnson originally wanted to become a lawyer. He was influenced by people who had helped and pushed his educational journey, which then inspired him to want to do the same for students.

“If I could get the chance to do that, help someone the way they helped me, I’d love to do that position,” Johnson said.

He later graduated from the University of California Santa Barbara, where he got his doctorate in education.

“I’ve had many different managers and he takes the time to listen to what I need, offer me help when I need it,” ASG Advisor Amy Collins said. “I’ll come to him with an issue, and he’ll say, ‘Well, how can I help you with this? What can I do to make this easier or help you work it out?’ and that’s very much appreciated.”

Working at City College, Johnson said he enjoys how everyone can attend no matter how they did in high school, and that it’s affordable and has career technical education.

“Coming out of high school, I didn’t know there were a plethora of things I could do,” he said. “I hope I’m able to give people the idea that they can become more than what they see right in front of them.”

The associate dean of student affairs said the role is important to him because he wants students to understand how the college functions, along with the rights and responsibilities, so they can have a way to be heard.

“It’s a big influence to help students and see students get from point A to point B,” Johnson said.