ABSTRACT
The chapter is dedicated to the memory of the late Reverend Ronald Francis Johnson, founder to the “Rites of Passage Program.” Brother Ron passed on January 16, 2002 in Los Angeles where his fathers training program was based. A native of Brooklyn, Ron came to Southern California in 1985, and I had the occasion to meet him shortly thereafter. We first interacted at a local conference dealing with issues impacting young African American males. I had written a university level course dealing with fathers-fathering issues and Ron was developing his “Rites” program in the public schools. He asked me to visit his program on the campus of Hawthorne High School, and I invited him to come to the Cal State Long Beach campus and share his thoughts with my students. I am thankful for the exposure to this articulate, dynamic, thoughtful, engaging, and charismatic gentleman. My students and I were enthralled with his message, with his delivery style, and with him. Thus began a relationship that continued until his untimely death. Ron Johnson blessed my students and me on numerous subsequent occasions with an overview of his very successful program to aid young males in making the transition from youth to young adulthood. With each
Michael E. Connor Emeritus, California State University, Long Beach
interaction, I learned more about life, about myself, and about the population I was attempting to serve. I am truly fortunate in having the opportunity to know Brother Ron Johnson, a man who certainly walked the walk. Those interested in learning more about Reverend Johnson’s work are encouraged to read Visions, a State of California’s Department of Education’s book focusing on developing a plan for success in life for Black males.
