MURFREESBORO, N.C. – Chowan University’s Associate Vice President for Athletics and Compliance, Patrick Mashuda, announced in April 2025 the appointment of Leon Johnson as the new Strength and Conditioning Coordinator.

Johnson brings a well-rounded skill set, including leadership, problem-solving, communication, teamwork, creativity, and a strong eagerness to learn. During his time at Chowan, he worked closely with Coach Leon Eason, playing a key role in developing and implementing training programs designed to enhance student-athlete performance. His experience under Coach Eason further deepened his expertise in strength and conditioning.

A four-year football player at Chowan University, Johnson also served as a team captain during his final season, earning the Great Sportsmanship Award (2023-2024). His commitment to leadership extended beyond the field, as he was an active member of the Criminal Justice Club (2021-2022).

“Leon Johnson is a great full-time addition to our student-athlete support staff,” said Patrick Mashuda, Associate Vice President for Athletics. “Leon is one of our own, as a former student-athlete, Chowan graduate, and current graduate school student, he brings a familiarity to the area as well as a certain level of Hawk pride to the position.” 

Johnson is a Chowan University alumnus, having earned his Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice in May 2024. During his time at Chowan, he excelled both academically and athletically, making a lasting impact as a student-athlete and leader. He is currently pursuing a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Organizational Leadership while expanding his expertise in leadership, strength and conditioning, and criminal justice.

“We appreciate all that Leon Eason did for us in this position and for assisting in getting Leon Johnson ready to step up and take this position,” said Meredith Long, Deputy Athletic Director. “Leon is a hard working, goal-oriented young man who works well with our student-athletes and our staff. Leon’s attributes as a person will aid him and our teams as he progresses in this position. We are excited that Leon has joined the full-time staff and even more excited that we were able to promote one of our own Hawks.”