Event Information
Friday, August 21, 2026
2:00 – 3:00pm
School of Social Work, room 2015 (1010 W Nevada St, Urbana)
Virtual attendance option also available
Free event and giveaways!
Come and meet members of the School of Social Work Engagement Office and the University of Illinois Campus-Community Compact as they introduce their programs and initiatives for the 2026-27 academic year. This event provides an opportunity to learn about upcoming engagement opportunities, signature events, and ways to get involved throughout the year. Participants are welcome to attend either in person or virtually.
Following brief remarks from the School of Social Work Engagement Office and the Campus-Community Compact, we will virtually welcome special guest Adam Johnson of mrjohnsonpaints. A middle school math teacher by profession, Adam uses art to inspire solidarity and social change. Through his portraits of civil rights leaders, influential athletes, and individuals whose stories have shaped movements for justice, Adam’s artwork invites reflection, sparks meaningful dialogue, and fosters a deeper sense of community and shared humanity.
Hosted by Associate Dean Dr. Kevin Tan, this conversation will explore Adam’s journey as an “artivist”—someone who combines artistic expression with activism. Adam will share the inspiration behind his work, discuss how creativity can serve as a catalyst for social change, and reflect on why he freely shares much of his artwork to promote learning, healing, and collective action.
At the conclusion of the program (approximately 3:00 p.m.), all in-person attendees will have the opportunity to pick up free prints of Adam Johnson’s artwork while supplies last. In addition, a limited number of signed prints from Adam Johnson will be raffled among both in-person and virtual participants, with prints mailed to winners attending remotely (you must be in attendance to receive a mailed print).
About the Artist
Adam Johnson (on Instagram as @MrJohnsonPaints) is a Minneapolis-based artist, educator, and youth mentor who is inspired by representation, trust, and justice. He strives to amplify the stories of the people he paints. Most of his art has been donated to educators and social justice activists.