Eric and Donna Johnson Create Scholarship Fund for White Mountains Community College
Eric Johnson, a proud 1961 graduate of Berlin High School, carries his hometown in his heart. His success story is rooted in the outdoor activities, independence, and core values that were part of his life while growing up in Coos County. In a heartfelt tribute to his roots, Eric and his wife, Donna, established a legacy scholarship fund through The Foundation for New Hampshire Community Colleges to support White Mountains Community College (WMCC) students.
The Johnsons explored various philanthropic avenues, but their hearts were set on creating a scholarship that not only benefits local students but also contributes to the growth of Coos County. “We didn’t want to provide scholarships to young people who leave for college and never return,” Eric explains. “The average age of students at WMCC is 26, so these are people who have already established work and residency in Coos County. They are invested in the community and are here to stay.”
Eric developed his exceptional athletic abilities during an active childhood skiing, playing pond hockey, and pick-up sports on Berlin-area courts. He earned 11 letters in athletics in high school and traveled as a junior national ski team member. “I was a little bit savvy about life beyond Coos County,” he said. After high school, Eric left New Hampshire for Montana State University, where he was a member of the university’s baseball and ski teams, lettered eight times, and earned his bachelor’s degree in physical education in 1966.
Eric and Donna’s journey is one of remarkable achievements and unwavering commitment. They met when Eric was lifeguarding at Hampton Beach, and they tied the knot the year he graduated from college. Donna remained in New Hampshire as Eric trained in Denver on the U.S. Ski Team until injuries intervened. While in Denver, he began taking night classes at Denver University to earn his master’s degree in physical education. He ultimately received his master’s from Denver University in 1971.
Eric and Donna made their home in New Hampshire, where they raised four children and Eric embarked on a distinguished career as a teacher and coach. His accolades include being the first National Coach of the Year recipient from Special Olympics and inductions into the Vermont Academy Hall of Fame, the New Hampshire High School Coaches Hall of Fame, and the Walter Smith Coaches Hall of Fame.
“Education holds a special place in our hearts. Although I didn’t grow up in Berlin, I share Eric’s commitment to supporting education for those who work hard to open doors,” said Donna. Eric’s mother received her education at WMCC, and they have three grandchildren who attended New Hampshire community colleges. The Johnsons’ gift to the college is a testament to their deep appreciation for both Coos County and the value of a community college education.
“Donna and I are grateful for what we have and our ability to give back. We hope that future generations of WMCC students have the same success in life that we have had. We are very proud we had the opportunity to do this, especially given Berlin has faced many challenging times since I lived there,” Eric said.
The Eric and Donna Johnson Scholarship Fund awarded its first awards to six students this spring.
The Foundation for New Hampshire Community Colleges provides greater access to educational opportunities through financial assistance for student scholarships, program development, and enhancements to facilities across New Hampshire’s seven community colleges. The Foundation actively seeks contributions from public and private sources to create scholarships and program partnerships that prepare students for in-demand, skilled jobs to meet the needs of the workforce.
