Mary Johnson

Executive Administrator

About Mary

What do you do at MAGCOR?

Human resources, Inmate payroll and classifications, PIECP Coordinator, Board liaison, support for our offender workers

What are your credentials/education/past experience, for working in your position?

I have an Associate's degree with dual majors in accounting and business administration. But, working as the assistant to the Director of Administration for 2 years gave me the best experience possible because I served in this position while incarcerated. I understand what it is like to be "behind the walls" as well as working from the outside for the Corporation.

What is something people in your industry have to deal with that you want to fix?

I wish I could change the negative stigma that follows people who have been in prison. When you mention someone being incarcerated, most people think of the most vile, evil reasons possible. If you tell people that you have been in prison, they clutch their purse a little tighter, hug their children a little closer, or move a further distance from you. An offender should “pay for their crimes” while incarcerated, not for the remainder of their life.

What do you like about working at MAGCOR?

I love that I can be myself; I don't have to try to hide my past and all the trials I've been through in life. It is great motivation to me to succeed and be all I can in life to be a role model for those now behind bars. I also feel like I can be a voice for those currently incarcerated because I understand the situation they are in.

What’s your background?

I grew up in a small, country town at the Northeast corner of MS; when I say small, country I mean we have 1 red light and a city park with mineral spring water. The beautiful countryside holds two states parks within the county. It only takes 5 minutes to drive into town to work or run into Walmart and grab something you need.

I was raised up in a very close knit family; my grandparents lived right down the road so my brother and I spent as much time with them as we did at home. We work in the garden, love going to the lake, help our neighbors, believe in God, and love some sweet iced tea.

Favorite quote:

"If you cannot do great things, do small things in a great way." Napoleon Hill

What are the values that drive you?

Treat others as you want to be treated. Work every day as if working unto the Lord. Honesty is the best policy. All men (women) are equal.

What are your favorite Podcasts/Books?

Battlefield of the Mind by Joyce Meyers.

A Million Little Pieces by James Frey.

When I Pray for You by Matthew Paul Turner; I read this to my little girl at least once a day, if not multiple times.

What do you enjoy doing when you are not working?

I enjoy doing anything with my children like coloring, reading, playing outside, walking around the block, and going to the park. I like to work in my flower beds and decorate the house for the different seasons. I love going back home to spend time with my family.