The Alabama Cooperative System congratulates Portia Johnson, Extension specialist and assistant professor in Auburn University’s College of Human Sciences, for receiving the 2025 Royrickers Cook Endowed Engagement Award. Johnson was recognized at the Outreach and Engaged Scholars Recognition Ceremony. The award is named after Royricker Cook, Auburn’s vice president of University Outreach. It honors a faculty or staff member who demonstrates a continued and intentional commitment to outreach.
“Johnson exemplifies the mission of Extension through her outstanding leadership in programming and scholarship,” said Laura Downey, assistant director of Human Sciences Extension. “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 development of the Alabama FAST: FAFSA Application Survival Toolkit is stated as a reason for Johnson’s selection. Since its launch in 2022, this program has served as a resource for thousands of Alabama families and high-school professionals to navigate the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) process.
“I am 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.”
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