Sierra Johnson highlights community impact, leadership growth through Leadership Academy
Meet Sierra Johnson, a member of the 2025-2026 Missouri Bar Leadership Academy class! A graduate of the Western Michigan University Cooley Law School, Johnson is a staff attorney for the St. Louis City Family Court Juvenile Delinquency Division. Prior to that role, she was an assistant public defender.
Every year, The Missouri Bar brings together a select group of new and young lawyers to serve on the Leadership Academy. Each class completes a service project, engages in leadership workshops, networks with leaders in Missouri’s legal profession, and attends bar meetings. Following graduation, members continue to serve The Missouri Bar in an active capacity for two years.
Johnson recently chatted with The Missouri Bar about how Leadership Academy helps new lawyers have a greater impact on their communities, why she became a lawyer, and how her office vision board keeps her focused on growth.
Why did you decide to apply for Leadership Academy?
“I applied to Leadership Academy because I wanted to grow as a leader, expand my involvement within the legal profession, and learn how I could make a greater impact both in my community and through The Missouri Bar … I have always been passionate about service and leadership, and the academy provided a unique opportunity to develop those skills alongside talented attorneys from across Missouri.”
Why should new/young lawyers consider applying for Leadership Academy?
“Leadership Academy is much more than a leadership program; it is an investment in your professional growth and future. It provides meaningful networking opportunities, exposure to leaders across the profession, and insight into how lawyers can make an impact beyond their individual practices … Leadership Academy challenges you to grow while helping you discover new ways to serve the profession and your community.”
This year's class service project centers around learning about new lawyers' needs, wants, and perceptions of The Missouri Bar. How do you see this work shaping the Bar's overall ability to continue helping lawyers even better serve their clients?
“Understanding the experiences and perspectives of new lawyers is essential to ensuring that The Missouri Bar remains relevant, responsive, and effective. By identifying what new attorneys need to feel supported, connected, and successful, The Missouri Bar can develop programs, resources, and opportunities that address real challenges facing the next generation of lawyers. When attorneys have the tools and support they need, they are better positioned to advocate for their clients, uphold professional standards, and contribute positively to their communities.”
What do you value most about The Missouri Bar and its mission?
“I appreciate that The Missouri Bar is committed to evolving and continuously finding ways to better serve and support attorneys throughout Missouri. The Missouri Bar provides resources, education, leadership opportunities, and professional connections that help attorneys better serve their clients and communities. It reflects the idea that when lawyers are supported and equipped to succeed, the public benefits as well.”
Why did you want to become a lawyer?
“Throughout high school, I wanted to become an elementary school teacher. That changed during my junior year when I joined my high school's mock trial team … Since discovering my passion for the law, I have always wanted to be the type of lawyer who helps others navigate difficult situations and ensures that people have a voice within the legal system. Whether through public defense or juvenile law, I have found fulfillment in using the law as a tool to help others and make a meaningful difference in their lives.”
What advice would you give to new/young lawyers?
“Do not be afraid to ask questions and seek guidance. No one expects you to know everything when you begin your career, and some of the best opportunities for growth come from learning from others. Build relationships, remain curious, and give yourself grace as you develop your skills. Confidence comes with experience, but professionalism, integrity, and a willingness to learn will serve you well from day one.”
What is one interesting/unique thing in your home/work office that brings you joy?
“One unique item in my home office is my vision board. It helps keep me focused on both my personal and professional goals while reminding me that growth is a continuous process. Included on my vision board are career aspirations that reflect the path I have envisioned for myself, from public defense to prosecution and, one day, potentially serving on the bench … These reminders encourage me to keep moving forward, trust the process, and continue striving toward the future I envision for myself.”
Editor’s note: These answers have been edited for clarity and conciseness. Learn more about Leadership Academy here.