Councilwoman Mamie B. Johnson, Ward 3
A lifelong Norfolk resident and a proven community leader.
As Norfolk City Councilwoman for Ward 3, Mamie B. Johnson brings decades of service, faith, and neighborhood advocacy to City Hall. Her story is rooted in this community - in its challenges, its triumphs, and its unyielding spirit - and she works every day to make sure every resident has a voice.
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Mamie B. Johnson was elected to the Norfolk City Council in May 2014, becoming the first Black woman elected to represent Ward 3. A lifelong Norfolk resident, she was raised in the Huntersville and Fairmont Park communities and has maintained deep ties to the city throughout her life and career.
She also served as a math and reading teacher specialist with Virginia Beach Public Schools.
Before her election to City Council, Councilwoman Johnson served as president of the Broad Creek Civic League. Her leadership has since expanded across Norfolk and the Hampton Roads region, including her current roles as a commissioner on the Transportation District Commission of Hampton Roads, vice chair of the Hampton Roads Transit Board of Commissioners and member of the Executive Committee of the Hampton Roads Workforce Council.
Councilwoman Johnson has also held several regional, state, and national leadership roles. She is a member and former chair of the Board of Directors of the Virginia First Cities Coalition and a member of the National Black Caucus of Local Elected Officials. Her public service has also included involvement with the National League of Cities and previous service on the Hampton Roads Planning District Commission and the Elizabeth River Project Board of Directors.
Throughout her tenure, Councilwoman Johnson has championed education, lifelong learning, workforce development and initiatives that support Norfolk’s senior community. As a former co-chair of the Mayor’s Lifelong Learning Commission, she helped lay the foundation for Believe in Learning Norfolk, a citywide initiative that connects residents of all ages with educational opportunities, resources, and experiences that support personal growth, professional development, and continued learning at every stage of life.
She also founded Community Connect, bringing together community partners and resources to connect Norfolk residents and families with essential services and opportunities in areas including education, employment, health and housing.
Councilwoman Johnson and her husband, William H. Johnson, have been married for 34 years and reside in Norfolk’s Broad Creek community.