Having grown up in the Midwest, Philip Johnson first discovered San Juan Island in 1999 as the result of a visit to sail and kayak this unique island. After falling in love with the San Juans, Phil and his spouse, Peg Gerlock, chose to become permanent residents more than 20 years ago. Over that time, he has come to know and respect the community members who live and work here.
During his 40-year career as a market research professional, he became an owner and the CEO of Leo J. Shapiro & Assoc., a market research and consulting company located in Chicago. Phil has an undergraduate degree in psychology from Loyola University and an MBA from the University of Chicago. Professionally he has been a researcher, analyst, manager, mentor, and marketing consultant. Currently, he is president of JJG Group LLC, which provides survey research for intellectual property litigation.
Phil has served the Community Foundation as a member of its investment committee over the past eight years. For many years he was the chair of the annual San Juan Concours, and he is an active member in the San Juan Island Yacht Club.
Phil enjoys sailing, mountaineering, backpacking, and kayaking as well as visits with his two children and three grandchildren, who live in the Denver area. He also treasures long hikes with Peg and their dog Dylan.