Geosciences professor Johnson honored with Boise State 2026 Global Impact Award

Boise State University named Jeffrey Johnson, professor in the Department of Geosciences, as the recipient of the 2026 Global Impact Award. This honor recognizes faculty members whose work demonstrates sustained excellence in global engagement and advances the internationalization of the university's teaching, research, and service mission.

Four faculty colleagues nominated Johnson, reflecting broad recognition of his far-reaching impact. His work integrates scientific innovation, international collaboration and student mentorship to address global challenges and expand Boise State's presence worldwide.

An internationally recognized geophysicist, Johnson leads research on volcanic hazards with a strong focus on the Americas. His work has contributed to the development of low-cost volcano monitoring systems and mudflow detection technologies that directly support the safety of communities living near active volcanoes. His approach emphasizes long-term, collaborative partnerships with local scientists, including training, shared data practices and capacity building within national observatories.

Johnson's global engagement spans multiple continents, with extensive research and fieldwork conducted in countries across Latin America, Europe, Asia and Oceania. A Fulbright Scholar and current Fulbright Alumni Ambassador, he has also played a key role in supporting Boise State faculty in developing international research and teaching opportunities.

Johnson's mentorship of students at all levels reflects his commitment to global education. He has led numerous field experiences abroad, engaging undergraduate and graduate students in hands-on research alongside international collaborators. These experiences have resulted in student publications, international conference presentations and sustained global career pathways. He has also mentored early-career scientists from partner countries and hosted international scholars at Boise State.

Among his many contributions, Johnson served as a lead organizer of the Cities on Volcanoes 12 (COV12) conference, held in Antigua, Guatemala, in 2024. This landmark event brought together more than 700 participants from around the world and was the first in the series to be fully bilingual, significantly increasing accessibility and participation from Latin American scientists.

Johnson has also extended the reach of his work through public scholarship and outreach. As a National Geographic collaborator and grantee, he has contributed to global storytelling initiatives that highlight the science of volcanoes and the communities they impact. His efforts have helped elevate public understanding of geohazards and inspired broader engagement with global scientific challenges.

"Dr. Jeff Johnson is a force for good around the world," said Jerry Mock. "His work in volcanic hazard monitoring advances critical science while building long-term, collaborative partnerships with local communities. He is deeply committed to sharing knowledge, elevating others, and creating transformative opportunities for students and international colleagues. His impact is not only global; it is personal and enduring."

The Global Impact Award was presented as part of the Center for Global Engagement's International Celebration Spring 2026, recognizing faculty who demonstrate outstanding leadership in advancing international education and cross-cultural collaboration.

For more information, please contact Assistant Provost Gonzalo Bruce of the Center for Global Engagement at [email protected]

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