Ashanti Johnson, PhD, is an American geochemist and oceanographer. She was the first African American to earn a doctoral degree in oceanography from Texas A&M University. Her scientific work explores biogeochemical processes in aquatic environments, helping to understand how human activities impact ecosystems. Johnson is a national leader in STEM mentoring and diversity. Among her many accomplishments, she launched the Minorities Striving to Pursue Higher Degrees of Success in Earth System Sciences (MS PHD’S) initiative, which offers mentorship and professional development opportunities to underrepresented minorities interested in these fields. Her awards include receiving a Presidential Award for Excellence in Science, Mathematics and Engineering Mentoring (PAESMEM) in 2010 in recognition of her professional development and diversity-related activities.