Kean University

BJ Johnson was promoted to Managing Assistant Director of Recreational/External Affairs in August 2023. 

The Managing Assistant Director is responsible for planning and managing the operations of all Intercollegiate events and programs, wellness/special events and community client rentals for all Athletic facilities. Additionally, this position will manage external affairs and other areas as assigned for the Department.

Johnson served as the head women's lacrosse coach from 2018-2023

The Cougars reached the NJAC Tournament for the fifth straight season under Johnson in 2023. Under her watch the Cougars have had 17 All-NJAC selections, including Katie Pileggi being named NJAC Midfielder of the Year twice with Emily Bretschneider earning Rookie of the Year honors. Her tenure includes seven IWLCA All-Region player honors and two with ECAC nods.

Johnson had a very successful inaugural campaign in 2018. The Cougars won 14 games, which tied a program season win mark and posted a 10 game winning streak to start the season.

Johnson comes to Kean after stops at Rutgers University, Mount St. Mary's University, Penn State University, Temple University and The College of New Jersey.

Previously she served as the head coach of Mount St. Mary's for four seasons, leading the Mountaineers to three Northeast Conference Tournament berths.  During her tenure Johnson coached one NEC Defensive Player of the Year (2011), seven All-NEC first teamers, seven All-NEC second-team selections and three All-Rookie team selections. In addition, the Mountaineers won the NEC Sportsmanship Award in 2011 and 2014.

In 2013, she guided Mount St. Mary's to the NEC Tournament for the 11th consecutive season and tied the NEC record with 15 overall trips. The squad put together a 6-3 record in the NEC.

Johnson made an immediate impact on the program in her first season in 2011, leading the Mountaineers to the NEC Championship game for the first time since the 2007 season and the fifth time overall. Mount St. Mary's finished 8-11 overall and 6-3 in NEC play.

From 2007-2010 she was an assistant at her alma mater, Penn State.  While with the Nittany Lions, she was involved in all aspects of the program, including recruiting, working with both the offense and defense, scouting and film breakdown.

Johnson began her coaching career as a graduate assistant coach at The College of New Jersey, helping the team to the Division III National Championship game in 2004. She was an assistant coach at Temple for two seasons (2005-06), guiding the Owls to the Atlantic 10 regular season title in 2005.

A 2003 graduate of Penn State, Johnson earned Regional All-America honors in 2000 and 2001 as a midfielder with the Nittany Lions. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in kinesiology and earned her master's in physical education with a concentration in athletic administration from TCNJ in 2005.

Updated 8-19-24