Sesame Workshop Promotes Valerie Mitchell Johnston

Sesame Workshop has upped Valerie Mitchell Johnston to executive VP of legal and business affairs and general counsel, and the board has voted to name her board secretary, both effective July 1.

Johnston joined Sesame Workshop over 12 years ago, first serving as senior counsel and working her way up to her most recent role, senior VP of legal and business affairs and deputy general counsel. She has supported the nonprofit’s corporate governance, philanthropic development, social impact work, DEI initiatives and more.

Between her tenures at Sesame Workshop, Johnston served for three-and-a-half years as the deputy general counsel of the Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts, where she supported the organization’s cultural programs, fundraising efforts and educational initiatives. Prior to her time at the Lincoln Center, she was VP of business and legal affairs for HIT Entertainment, both before and after its purchase by Mattel.

Johnston takes over from Joseph P. Salvo, who is retiring after eight years with Sesame Workshop. She will report to Steve Youngwood, CEO.

“Valerie is a brilliant, tactical and strategic lawyer with a deep understanding of the Workshop, its needs and what is necessary to keep this organization on its trajectory of success,” Youngwood said. “She understands and embraces all sides of our work and mission. I have no doubt she will provide excellent leadership for her team, who have the breadth and depth of knowledge, experience and commitment to help us grow the Workshop’s educational endeavors around the world.”