Blair alumnus Blake-Anthony Johnson, BMus’12, has been named the recipient of the Vanderbilt Alumni Association’s 2026 Early Career Professional Achievement Award. He will be honored during the association’s annual alumni awards celebration on Oct. 14, ahead of Reunion and Homecoming Weekend, Oct. 15–18.
The Early Career Professional Achievement Award recognizes alumni age 40 and younger for outstanding career achievement and exceptional promise for continued professional success.
An accomplished cellist and arts executive, Johnson has performed internationally and built a distinguished career in nonprofit arts leadership. He previously served as president and CEO of the Chicago Sinfonietta and in 2025 became the chief executive officer of the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival and Foundation. He also was the first African American executive to lead a nationally renowned orchestra.
Johnson remains actively engaged with the Blair School of Music as a member of the Dean’s Advisory Circle. He has shared his expertise with students through career panels and has participated in Vanderbilt Alumni Association chapter events.
Read about more of the Alumni Association honorees.