Celia Johnston Blue

Host | Practical Optimism: How to Create a Healthier Relationship with Work, and in Life

CELIA JOHNSTON BLUE is a seasoned executive leader with over 30 years of leadership experience in the private, public and nonprofit sectors.  In 2015, Celia collaborated with 12 women of color from across Massachusetts and led the development and public launch of the Massachusetts Women of Color Coalition (MAWOCC) Inc. In her current role as President and CEO, she is leading the organization to realize its vision and mission, while strongly advocating for the voices of women of color to be heard. Prior to her current role, Celia was the Interim Director of the Rhode Island Department of Human Services, a cabinet-level position reporting to Governor McKee, and spent nine years in the transportation industry in Massachusetts.  First appointed as a commissioner for the former Massachusetts Aeronautics Commission, she was later appointed as Deputy Registrar, Assistant Secretary of the Massachusetts Department of Transportation and then promoted to the Registrar/CEO of the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles. Celia is the first African American in Massachusetts’ history to serve as the Registrar for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Worcester State University, a Master’s degree in Business Administration from Anna Maria College and is currently enrolled in a PhD Leadership program at the University of Vermont. She has received awards for her leadership and commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion and was named in the Power 50, Class of 2021 by Worcester Business Journal. In 2023, Celia received a distinguished Alumnae award from Worcester State University.