Beloved community leader Teree Caldwell-Johnson remembered for ‘passionate, visionary’ leadership

Oakridge Neighborhood released a statement announcing that Teree Caldwell-Johnson, CEO and president of the organization, died from cancer. The news of her passing was announced on Easter Sunday. She was dedicated in her role as a community advocate and leader, serving over 40 years in numerous non-profit organizations, and she was also known for being a strong advocate of social justice, economic improvement and education. Caldwell-Johnson was a long-time member of the Des Moines Public Schools Board and had stepped down due to health issues.

UPDATE: The Des Moines School Board on April 4, appointed Skylar Mayberry-Mayes, executive director of Grand View University’s Jacobson Institute, to fill the vacancy.

Caldwell-Johnson served the community as a board member in several organizations including founder and board member of The Directors Council and the One Economy initiative.

She created a lasting impact on communities.

“Her impact as the President and CEO of Oakridge Neighborhood for the last 20 years cannot be overstated,” said the president of Oakridge Neighborhood, Andy McGuire in a media statement.

During her time as CEO of the organization, Oakridge finished renovations and initiated programs to help individuals who reside within the community, including educational programs for the students as well as support services and training for adults. In the press release, it was noted that Caldwell-Johnson, “… was a passionate visionary, advocate, and champion known for her meaningful and significant involvement.”

She was also a member of Planned Parenthood North Central States, the Mid-Iowa Health Foundation and the Polk County Housing Trust Fund. She was an alumna of the University of Kansas and Spelman College.