Sustainability Leadership Award Honoree: Jean Johnson, Zvago Stillwater

When you walk into Zvago Stillwater, you immediately feel a sense of harmony between people and place — and much of that can be traced back to the thoughtful leadership of Jean Johnson. As the founder and chair of Zvago’s Green Team, Jean has guided her community toward a model of cooperative, sustainable living that extends far beyond the building’s walls.

Under Jean’s leadership, Zvago Stillwater secured a $20,000 BizRecycling grant to fund ambitious waste-reduction initiatives. She oversaw the development of a comprehensive recycling system, a food scrap collection program, and resident education that helps neighbors rethink their daily habits. These efforts earned recognition from Ebenezer Property Management for exceptional sustainability leadership — proof that collective change begins with one determined voice.

Jean’s personal ethic of “having enough,” inspired by her mother, infuses everything she does. Whether she’s recycling electronics, choosing sustainable materials, or knitting with compostable wool, she lives her values in simple, tangible ways. Through her calm persistence and example, Jean inspires others to live more intentionally and lighten their environmental footprint.

Her work reminds us that sustainability isn’t just a checklist — it’s a mindset. Thank you, Jean, for showing what’s possible when care for community meets a lifelong commitment to the planet.

---

As we celebrate Jean’s inspiring leadership, we invite you to join us in continuing the mission of sustainability and community connection. The Mission: Possible Gala is happening Thursday, October 30th, where guests can meet Jean and our other honorees in person.

Plus, our Silent Auction is now live! Bid on incredible local experiences and items to support our work at https://givebutter.com/c/SSMN-2025/auction. The auction closes at 6:30 p.m. on October 30th — don’t miss your chance to make a difference!