Communities In Schools of Richmond names Henrico Schools official as president and CEO
Communities In Schools of Richmond recently announced today that Adrienne Cole Johnson will serve as the organization’s next president and chief executive officer. Johnson, who currently serves as chief of Family and Community Engagement for Henrico County Public Schools, will officially join the organization in July, following the retirement of longtime President and CEO Dr. Harold Fitrer.
Johnson brings more than 25 years of executive and senior leadership experience focused on advancing student success through integrated supports, community partnerships, and family engagement.
In her current role, Johnson leads Henrico Schools' community school strategy and oversees a team of more than 60 staffers working to connect students and families with wraparound supports including mental health services, basic needs assistance, and advocacy resources.
“Adrienne brings deep experience, a collaborative leadership style, and a clear commitment to students and families,” said David Ryan, chair of the Communities In Schools of Richmond Board of Directors. “Her work strengthening community partnerships and expanding access to essential supports reflects the very heart of the CIS model. The board is confident that Adrienne will build on our strong foundation and lead CIS into its next chapter of impact.”
Johnson’s career spans leadership roles in education, nonprofit organizations, and government. Prior to her work in Henrico County Public Schools, she served in leadership positions at Peter Paul Development Center in Richmond, where she helped build a cross-sector network of partners supporting students and families across multiple program sites. Earlier in her career, she also held leadership roles in federal government and Richmond Public Schools.
Throughout her career, Johnson has focused on strengthening systems that remove barriers to student success and building partnerships that help communities thrive.
“The mission of Communities In Schools resonates deeply with me,” Johnson said. “I have seen firsthand how the CIS model transforms the lives of students and families by surrounding them with the relationships and resources they need to succeed. I am honored to join this extraordinary team and look forward to working alongside our schools, partners, and community to ensure every student has the opportunity to thrive.”
Johnson’s selection comes during a milestone year for the organization, which is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year.
Today, CIS site coordinators work inside schools to connect students with the academic, social, and emotional supports they need to stay in school and achieve in life.
Under the leadership of Fitrer, CIS of Richmond expanded significantly — growing from a small grassroots program into a network serving thousands of students each year across Richmond and Henrico schools.
“Harold’s leadership for the last 18 years has resulted in CIS of Richmond being a trusted organization, both locally and nationally, that has had a meaningful impact on thousands of students in our community,” said Ryan. “His impact on our schools and student support systems will be enduring.”
Johnson holds a master of social work degree from Washington University in St. Louis and a bachelor of science degree from Old Dominion University. She is an active civic leader and currently serves on several community boards and advisory groups throughout the Richmond region.
As CIS enters its fourth decade, Johnson will guide the organization’s continued focus on expanding student supports, strengthening school partnerships, and mobilizing the Richmond community around student success.
