Cassius Johnson

CEO and Co-Founder

I am deeply committed to harnessing the collective power of public, private, and philanthropic sectors to drive meaningful social impact. Over my 22-year career, I've cultivated a diverse skill set through leadership roles across government, philanthropy, and both nonprofit and for-profit national organizations. Before co-founding Perceptist, I led operations and strategy for Education Strategy Group, playing a key role in developing and launching the strategy to scale the organization to the next phase of growth. My experience also includes serving as Director of Government Affairs and Policy at Year Up, Inc., and as a program officer at the Carnegie Corporation of New York, where I conducted grant-making to advance national education reforms and innovative school designs. Eight years of my career were dedicated to Jobs for the Future, where I launched a new office and directed influential national and federal policy activities in Washington, DC. In 2010, I had the honor of testifying before the United States Senate HELP Committee. My passion for social impact began in Texas, where I served as Chief of Staff for a member of the Texas House of Representatives.

What brings you to this work?

This work is a personal calling. I am driven by an inner purpose to elevate the life outcomes of communities and individuals around our world. I've been inspired by the remarkable potential of exceptionally designed organizations, guided by impassioned leaders, to not just tackle challenges, but to unlock boundless opportunities—mirroring the transformative experiences that have shaped and created opportunity on my own journey.

What brings you joy in your life?

I live a life of joy! I treasure the joy of moments with my daughter, whether it is listening to her play the violin or piano, or indulging in her favorite meal, sushi. I am also an ardent enthusiast of house music, finding profound joy and happiness in the pulsating beats and soul-stirring lyrics. My life of joy is grounded in my mindfulness practice and the solace I find in writing, cooking, gardening, crafting interiors, and engaging in enriching conversations.

Cassius Johnson

Cassius Johnson

Cassius Johnson

Cassius Johnson

CEO and Co-Founder

Jen Timm

Jen Timm

COO and Co-Founder

Jen Timm

COO and Co-Founder

Joshua Cinelli

Joshua Cinelli

Strategic Communications Advisor

Joshua Cinelli

Strategic Communications Advisor

Connor Wakayama

Connor Wakayama

Consultant

Connor Wakayama

Consultant Advisor

[per-sep-tist] – noun

An individual with the unique ability to see through complexity and bring coherence to strategic decision-making to create better results

Contact us

South Florida – St. Louis – New York City

(561) 247-0864

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