Susie Johnson has been active in the music and theatre arts in Meridian for 26 years, as a certified home-school teacher, education coordinator, curriculum consultant, education director and executive director.  Her work with Stage 2 youth theatre has inspired a long-lasting love for the arts in the lives of the local community. She also tutors and coordinates private lessons in strings for local students, and spreads her love of the arts in many volunteer activities. Susie serves as the Executive Director and Education Director for the Meridian Symphony Orchestra, where she shares the vision of the symphony and the importance of the arts in the lives of children everyday. She was the recipient of the statewide MAAE Exemplary Arts Service Award and now serves on the Board of Directors for MAAE.  She uses her mind, body, and high energy to ensure that all children she meets become the best they can be in their chosen arts field.