Portia Johnson Named 2025 Recipient of the Royrickers Cook Endowed Engagement Award

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AUBURN, Ala. — Portia Johnson, assistant professor and Extension specialist in Auburn University’s College of Human Sciences, has been named the 2025 recipient of the Royrickers Cook Endowed Engagement Award.

Johnson was selected for her creation and expansion of the Alabama FAST (FAFSA Application Survival Toolkit) program. The initiative has helped thousands of Alabama families navigate the complexities of financial aid and higher education planning.

A first-generation college graduate, Johnson drew from personal experience and professional expertise in consumer behavior and analytics to develop ALFAST in 2022. The program includes a 16-page student guide, educator resources, and a 1.5-hour curriculum. Since its launch, ALFAST has reached more than 10,000 high school students and parents through in-person workshops and has been implemented in 90 high schools across the state.

The award will be presented during the Outreach and Engaged Scholarship Symposium in late August. Named in honor of Royrickers Cook, an internationally recognized leader in higher education and Auburn’s Vice President for University Outreach and Associate Provost, the award recognizes a faculty or staff member who demonstrates an ongoing and purposeful commitment to outreach.

“Portia Johnson’s work exemplifies the spirit of this award,” Royrickers Cook stated. “Her commitment to financial literacy and educational access is transforming lives and communities.”

Johnson’s efforts have contributed to a dramatic rise in Alabama’s FAFSA completion rates, with the state jumping from 34th to 9th in national rankings. Her work has been especially impactful in underserved communities with student populations in need.

In addition to ALFAST, Johnson has led the development of the ALFAST Career Explorer, a new curriculum designed to connect students with high-demand career pathways. She plans to pilot the program during the 2024–2025 academic year.

Johnson and her team of Human Sciences Extension agents have received multiple national, regional and state awards for their work, including three national honors from the National Extension Association of Family and Consumer Sciences.

Laura Downey, associate dean and assistant director of Human Sciences Extension, said, “Johnson exemplifies the mission of Extension through her outstanding leadership in programming and scholarship. Her dedication to translating research into impactful programs reflects a deep commitment to Alabamians as she seeks practical ways to help families make informed decisions and positive changes. Her heart for her work is evident through her program development and delivery. Johnson's pursuit of excellence and service to communities is truly commendable.”

“I’m humbled and energized by this recognition,” Johnson said. “Helping families make informed financial decisions and access higher education is not just my job—it’s my mission.”

For more information about the Alabama FAST program, visit www.aces.edu/fafsa.

Media Contact:
Auburn University Outreach
202 Samford Hall
Auburn, AL 36849
outreach.auburn.edu
outcomm@auburn.edu

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