Dana Johns

Dana Johns has a diverse work experience spanning several industries. Currently, Johns serves as the Head of Private Equity at the Division of Investment Department of the Treasury State of New Jersey. In this role, they are responsible for overseeing private equity investments. Prior to this, Johns held the role of Chair at PEWIN - Private Equity Women Investor Network, where they led the largest organization for senior women in the Private Equity industry and supported initiatives to accelerate the formation of women-led funds.

From 2011 to 2023, Johns worked at the Maryland State Retirement and Pension System, first as a Senior Investment Analyst and later as a Senior Portfolio Manager. These roles involved overseeing private equity investments, identifying new opportunities, conducting due diligence, and monitoring fund investments.

Outside of their finance career, Johns has contributed to various organizations in leadership positions. They served as a Board Member for the Court Appointed Special Advocates of Baltimore Inc. from 2010 to 2019. In addition, Johns held the position of President and Board Member at the Waldorf School of Baltimore from 2013 to 2019. They also served as a Board Member for Friends of Modern and Contemporary Art at the Baltimore Museum of Art from 2011 to 2015. Earlier in their career, Johns worked as an Investment Associate at Camden Partners, where they were involved in private equity investments in a fund of funds structure.

Before transitioning into finance, Johns worked in the arts and cultural sector. They served as a Board Member for the American Opera Theater from 2009 to 2011 and as the Deputy Director of the Contemporary Museum from 1996 to 2000. Johns also held a role as a Programs Associate at The Baltimore Museum of Art from 1993 to 1996.

Overall, Dana Johns has a wealth of experience in private equity, leadership, and the arts, making them a well-rounded professional.

Dana Johns has a diverse education history. Dana first attended Indiana University Bloomington from 1985 to 1989, where they earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Comparative Literature. Dana then pursued further education and obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer and Information Systems from Stevenson University, completing their studies from 2000 to 2001. Later on, Dana attended Loyola University Maryland from 2005 to 2008, where they earned a Master of Science in Finance. Additionally, in August 2017, they obtained a certification called ILPA Institute - Private Equity Executive Education from the Institutional Limited Partners Association (ILPA).