Hall of Fame
Arnold Johnson embarked on his academic journey at Fayetteville State University, laying the foundation for a distinguished career in sports, education, real estate, business development, and entrepreneurship. Hailing from South Miami, Arnold was raised in a nurturing environment with four brothers and one sister, two of whom, Dr. Rose Wesley and Dr. Harold Johnson, earned Doctorate degrees, underscoring the family's commitment to education.
Excelling in athletics, Arnold pursued his aspiration of becoming a professional athlete and found guidance from his uncle, esteemed running back Harold Brown, and NFL Hall of Famer Larry Little. His athletic prowess shone during his tenure at South Dade Senior High School and later at Fayetteville State University, where he distinguished himself as the team captain and All-NAIA performer.
Following his collegiate career, Arnold spent four years as a professional football player in the World Football League (Charlotte Hornets and Philadelphia Bell). In 1978, Johnson signed with the Minnesota Vikings of the National Football League (NFL). After a career-ending knee injury in 1980, Arnold transitioned his focus to his passion for molding young minds.
Arnold earned a master's degree in educational administration from Cambridge College and returned to South Dade County High as a Vice Principal and Assistant Football Coach. Subsequently, he mentored aspiring NFL players at the high school and recreational levels. Transitioning from education, Arnold delved into entrepreneurship, establishing a prosperous restaurant and bar business and exploring opportunities in the real estate market, particularly in the aftermath of Hurricane Andrew, where he expanded his interests to the Florida and Bahamian real estate landscapes.
In the Bahamas, Arnold advanced his career as a real estate developer and international business consultant, leveraging his network to facilitate American buyers' and potential investors' forays into the Bahamian market.
