Auburn College of Education Student Riley Johnson Named Miss Auburn

When Riley Johnson heard her name announced recently during Auburn’s beloved callouts tradition, the Elementary Education major was stunned. 

Selected as Miss Auburn, the College of Education student described the moment as one she’ll never forget.

“I was not expecting to win at all, which made it even more special,” she said.

For Johnson, a native of Johns Creek, Georgia, near Atlanta, her naming as Miss Auburn as part of Auburn’s “Cater Callouts” tradition was a dream come true. Put simply, her orange-and-blue roots run deep. 

“I grew up coming to Auburn!” exclaimed Johnson, who started classes on the Plains in August 2023. “All of my family members — including my aunts, uncles, cousins, parents and sisters — went to Auburn. So, I always knew I would end up here. Auburn is the first and only college I ever applied to.”

Another interesting fact about her family involving Auburn? 

“My mom, Jean Fallon Johnson, was Miss Auburn in 1987–1988, so it was meaningful to follow in her footsteps,” Johnson said. 

An Uplifting Platform

Johnson’s Miss Auburn campaign, “Journey with Johnson,” centered on uplifting others — a theme inspired by both her major and her late father, Jim Johnson, who graduated from Auburn in 1988.

“The overarching theme of my platform was to leave others better than we found them,” she said. “It was also inspired by my late father, who had a true passion for mentorship. It has been very special to reflect on his life this past year and continue the values he instilled in me.”

The week of callouts was especially emotional without him there, she said, “but it was so special to see the love and support I received from friends, family and the College of Education.”

Johnson learned of her selection during one of Auburn’s most cherished traditions, affectionately known as “Cater Callouts.” The event, which was held Feb. 6, serves as the official moment for campus organizations to announce their newly elected members. From Miss Auburn to Student Government Association leaders, groups gather on the back steps of Auburn’s historic Cater Hall, where the current executive team or captains stand before an eager crowd. After votes are tallied, interviews completed, and tryouts finished, the leaders introduce themselves and prepare to reveal the results. Hundreds of students press toward the stairs, hoping to hear each name clearly. Finally, with all eyes fixed on them, the executive team reads the list aloud — one name at a time.

“It is such a fun way to celebrate with your friends and family if your name is called!” Johnson said.

As Miss Auburn, Johnson said she hopes to encourage a campus-wide focus on service and mentorship.

“I hope to inspire a spirit of selflessness in students’ hearts and promote service and kindness throughout Auburn’s campus.”

Her classroom calling

Within Auburn’s College of Education, Johnson said she has found a close-knit community that has shaped her experience. And what she loves most is her Elementary Education cohort. 

“It has been such a blessing to navigate the busy and sometimes crazy schedule that comes with this major alongside my cohort,” she said. “We are always quick to help, support and encourage each other, and I feel so lucky to have them.”

Her passion for teaching began early.  

“I always wanted to be a teacher when I was a little girl and vividly remember asking for big sticky note pads on my Christmas list one year!” she said.

After initially majoring in psychology, Johnson realized her calling was in the classroom. 

“During my freshman winter break, I realized I truly had a passion for teaching and wanted it to be my career,” she said. “It has been such an amazing major so far, and the College of Education has prepared me for what this job will be like after college. The professors and faculty are very special, and we are blessed to be part of such a strong program.” 

Johnson added that “Dr. Megan Burton and Dr. Amy Fitchett are two professors who have greatly impacted my experience in the college. They both understand that what we are learning goes far beyond memorization, and I am so grateful for the many ways they show up for us.”

After graduation, Johnson wants to bring her passion for teaching to a larger city such as Nashville, Charlotte or Atlanta. Ultimately, she said her plan is to earn a master’s degree after gaining a few years of experience in the classroom.  

And for those considering Auburn — especially the College of Education — Johnson offers heartfelt encouragement. 

“It was the best decision I have ever made,” she said. “Being in the College of Education has ignited my passion for teaching, and I am confident I will be well prepared after my time here. If you give it a chance, I am sure you will not regret it.”