Dr. Joan Johnson

Dr. Joan Johnson was the late wife and co-founder of George E. Johnson Sr., who recently passed away at the age of 99. Together, they established Johnson Products in 1954 on Chicago's South Side. This company became a trailblazer in the Black hair care industry, achieving the significant milestone of being the first Black-owned business to be listed on the American Stock Exchange. While the recent news focuses on the passing of her husband, Dr. Joan Johnson's role was integral to the founding and success of this pioneering enterprise. Her contribution is significant in the history of Black entrepreneurship and the development of the beauty industry, particularly for African Americans. The legacy of Johnson Products, built by both George and Joan, continues to be recognized as a landmark achievement in business history.