Benilde-St. Margaret’s new Athletics and Activities Director, Richard Johns, has been in athletic administration for 29 years. This journey has taken him to various schools in the metro, each contributing to his wealth of experience and success in shaping athletic programs throughout the Twin Cities.
Johns has worked in the area of Athletic administration at the University School of Milwaukee, Blake School, and then Providence Academy, proving his adaptability and eagerness to take on new challenges. The first step in this new chapter was joining St. Thomas Academy as Athletic Activities Director. However, it was a subsequent move to Benilde-St. Margaret’s, his alma mater where he graduated in 1970, that truly resonated with Johns. It was a challenge for Johns to move from a co-ed to an all-boys institution, back to a co-ed institution. However, Johns accepted the challenge by recognizing the nuances of different institutional cultures. “All boys schools are just a different culture, and when you are used to one culture, it was very hard for me,” Johns said.
As Johns returns to Benilde-St. Margaret’s, he is eager to be back in the place he grew up. In addition to his extensive experience in athletic administration, the class of 1970 alum has a strong connection to the school. He brings not only professional expertise but a passion for his mission as the new director. “I have always had this yearning to come back to Benilde and give more and grow things into the community again,” Johns said.
As part of his new role, Johns is working on making some changes to Benilde-St. Margaret’s to make a positive difference. This includes improving the locker rooms and weight room, something that the athletic department has been considering for quite some time. He hopes that this can be accomplished within the next year. In addition to upgrading these spaces, Johns is also all about helping the staff. He is working on plans to support them more and ensure everyone in the Benilde-St. Margaret’s family has what they need to succeed. Johns believes that uplifting the whole team can create an even better environment for everyone in the Benilde-St. Margaret’s community. “We want to provide an inclusive, positive educational-based activity or experience for anyone,” Johns said.
Paul Stone • Jan 17, 2024 at 11:49 am
Just wondering who is responsible for reporting the boys basketball results and box scores. I have noticed on several occasions where one or both are missing n the newspaper. This is not an urgent issue but it would be nice to see it. Thanks.