Celebrating Excellence: Honoring Jessica Johnson-Cope (VIII), Our 2024 Alumni Prize Recipient

The Prep for Prep Community gathered recently to honor the remarkable achievements of its alumni, with a special spotlight on the 2024 Alumni Prize recipient, Jessica Johnson-Cope (VIII/Hewitt ’92, Northwestern ’96) MA, Univ. of Georgia ’99. The Thursday, March 13 Celebration of Alumni Leaders, held at Sotheby’s, was filled with gratitude, admiration, and celebration of Jessica’s unwavering commitment to excellence, leadership, and service.

Dayna Joseph, Director of Alumni Affairs, set the tone for the event with warm words of welcome, expressing appreciation for the alumni leaders present and those who made the event possible. Special acknowledgements went to Board Chair Lisa Cashin, Trustee Eric Rothfeld, Sotheby’s CEO and Trustee Charles Stewart, and Interim CEO Jackson Collins (XII), as well as the dedicated executive staff and the Alumni Affairs team.

A Legacy of Leadership and Impact

Jessica Johnson-Cope, President and CEO of Johnson Security Bureau, has distinguished herself as a formidable leader in business and entrepreneurship. Her accolades include recognition as an EY Entrepreneurial Winning Woman in the North America Class of 2024. Jessica actively supports New York-based entrepreneurs and small businesses, serving as a board member of the Business Initiative Corporation of New York and chair of Goldman Sachs’ 10,000 Small Businesses Voices National Leadership Council. 
Jessica’s commitment to Prep for Prep is impressive. A generous donor, she chose to donate her Alumni Prize back to Prep to ensure the continuation of our transformative programs. Her dedication extends beyond financial contribution. She frequently shares her entrepreneurial expertise with students, participating in panels and mentorship for programs like our Entrepreneurship Camp.

A Journey of Resilience and Advocacy

During her speech, Jessica shared a powerful personal story about her journey to Prep for Prep, emphasizing the importance of advocacy and perseverance. Initially overlooked for the program, her mother’s determination ensured that Jessica had the opportunity to take the entrance exam, setting her on a path that would shape her future. This moment of resilience instilled in her a deep appreciation for community support and the power of belief in one’s potential.

Jessica acknowledged the influence of past alumni, mentors, and her family, particularly her mother and her husband, Waleed Cope, whose support has been instrumental in her journey. 

Continuing the Legacy

Jessica’s closing remarks underscored a powerful message: the importance of giving back. She encouraged all alumni to continue investing in the next generation of leaders, emphasizing that the true measure of success lies in the impact we have on others.

The evening concluded with heartfelt gratitude from the Prep for Prep Community, celebrating Jessica’s contributions and the enduring legacy of alumni who pave the way for future leaders. As we honor Jessica, we are reminded of the profound influence of mentorship, advocacy, and the spirit of giving back.

Congratulations, Jessica, on this well-deserved recognition! Your leadership, generosity, and unwavering dedication inspire us all.