The United Way of Greater Cincinnati and CEO Michael Johnson jointly announced Wednesday they recently resolved the matter between them and will be parting ways on friendly terms.
Our news partner WCPO reports Johnson's exit was precipitated by claims he had been bullied and discriminated against by Board Chair Julia Poston,whom he said in an email had repeatedly threatened his position, attempted to deter him from playing a visible role in the United Way community and referred to him as nothing more than an angry man.
WCPO reports the United Way statement says Johnson and the board of directors have "agreed to amicably part ways," and he will assist interim CEO Ross Meyer with the leadership transition.
African-American leaders in the city Tuesday reached out to United Way to begin talking about racial issues facing the city. Johnson's attorney Jennifer Branch says Johnson supports these efforts and hopes the business and community leaders will continue to talk so Cincinnati can attract and retain talented African-American leaders.
