Meet Samantha Johnson, Ph.D.

Samantha Johnson, Ph.D. is a remarkable, beautiful woman who is always striving to learn and to be more. She is an active philanthropist, a passionate advocate and loves getting her hands dirty. Literally, as she built her own customized purple airplane from scratch. 

In honor of Women’s History Month and Alembika Women who are making their own history, here is Samantha’s Spotlight.

Who were your top role models growing up (famous, alive or dead, family, teachers etc)?

One of my steadfast role models has always been my cousin. She was eight years older than me and I don’t remember a time in my life without her. I remember visiting her when she was a teenager and getting to see her walk in her high school fashion show. She was always extremely creative and imaginative and encouraged that spirit in me. She taught me about music and movies and fashion, and she inspired me to dance to the beat of my own drum. She was my own personal Madonna at the peak of her fame. She is still one of my most important role models as she is such a kind and generous mother, sister, daughter, friend, aunt and cousin. Her generosity of spirit is awe-inspiring.

What is something you never thought you’d learn to do but can now?

I never imagined I would learn how to fly an airplane. It wasn’t even in my realm of thinking about it until I met my now-husband and he was already a pilot. I loved the feeling of leaving the earth and all distractions and annoyances behind. I got my pilot’s license in 2015. Now almost ten years later I can say that I built my very own airplane and I love flying it and feeling like I have my own wings like a bird.

What achievement(s) would you want your younger self to know about her future self’s accomplishments?

I would want her to know that I stayed true to who I was and what I wanted, and that enabled me to be the first in my family to attend graduate school, and to obtain a doctorate. I would want her to know about flying and the airplane for sure. I would want her to know about my Jewish activism.

Throughout your studies, career or even hobbies, what are ways you feel you have made the greatest (large or meaningful) impact on the future for women /girls?

I have gravitated toward some stereotypical male hobbies, including flying and fast cars. I think I have helped the women and girls I’ve encountered feel empowered to fly, drive, and build. I hope I have encouraged them to take up their own space in these endeavors.

Who is your #1 cheerleader and what 3 words would they use to describe you?

My number one cheerleader is my son. He said, “Amazing. Fun. Smart. Loving. Funny. Nurturing. Beloved (then asked, what does Beloved mean?). 

Who would you cast to play you in your BioPic?

I would cast Bella Ramsey because some people say I look like her.

Samantha is wearing Essential Tekbika Punto Pants (left), Essential Cocoon Dress in Sangria (center) and a sleeveless top from the Crinkle Collection (right).

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