Former CU Buffs quarterback Charles Johnson announces candidacy for regent at-large

Olivia Doak, Daily Camera, Boulder, Colo.
·2 min read

Dec. 4—Charles Johnson, a University of Colorado Foundation trustee and former CU Buffs quarterback, announced he is seeking candidacy in a statewide race for CU regent at-large.

"My commitment to the University of Colorado has remained consistent over the last 35 years," Johnson said in a release. "From my tenure as an assistant athletic director to my current role on the CU Board of Trustees, I have embodied the same principles first learned on the playing field: teamwork, discipline and perseverance. My goal is to build on bringing a renewed sense of belonging to students, faculty and staff across the state."

Johnson is also the vice president of diversity, equity, and inclusion at Ball Corporation.

As a student athlete at CU Boulder, Johnson played on the 1990 co-national championship football team as a quarterback. He was engaged in student government with a focus on providing greater access and opportunity for all students.

"The ability for me to dream beyond my childhood circumstances was largely due to the academic, social and personal growth I experienced at CU," Johnson said in the release. "When elected, I will bring my passion, dedication and a lived experience to the CU Board of Regents, and together we will create a dynamic and thriving statewide community that offers access to every citizen in our great state and beyond."

Johnson's goal is to bring his knowledge, experience and expertise to break down barriers at CU Boulder and build on CU Denver's mission of fast-tracking diverse student populations. At UCCS, Johnson looks to strengthen opportunities for students who are active duty military or the family of active duty members. At CU Anschutz, Johnson aims to provide resources and support for training healthcare professionals.

Johnson did not state in his announcement what he party he was affiliated with.

The University of Colorado Board of Regents consists of nine members serving staggered six-year terms, one elected from each of Colorado's eight congressional districts and one from the state at large.

The regent-at-large seat is currently held by Democrat Lesley Smith, whose term is from 2019-2025.

The CU Board of Regents elections will take place in 2024.