Clyborne to focus on diversity, mentorship as Assistant Adjutant General

April 4, 2016 (ST. PAUL, Minnesota) — Brig. Gen. Johanna Clyborne was promoted April 2, 2016, during a ceremony in front of family, friends, colleagues and several members of the Minnesota National Guard. Clyborne recently relinquished command of the 347th Regional Support Group, where she was the first female Major Command Commander.

During her tenure in her new position as the Assistant Adjutant General – Army, Clyborne will focus on how to continue to bring diversity to the Minnesota National Guard. She understands the importance of balancing the organization’s aspiration for diversity and qualifications of an individual. “We want to select the right person with the right qualifications regardless of gender,” said Clyborne.

Mentorship is another key focus area for her. “I had a mentor who taught me to focus on the jobs that I could do, instead of the jobs that I couldn’t do.” It was this advice that prompted Clyborne to look at positions outside of her branch to maintain career mobility.

Clyborne acknowledges that she is one of the first females in the Minnesota National Guard that has held key leadership roles, however she sees it differently. “I feel responsible for all women in uniform,” said Clyborne. “Women before me opened the door, now I’ve cleared the room. It’s up to the women behind me to hold the room.”



Clyborne will serve as the Assistant Adjutant General – Army where she will be responsible for command supervision of Minnesota National Guard units by providing oversight and leadership for all matters pertaining to manning, operations, readiness, training and equipping units.

by Capt. Sara Behr
34th Red Bull Infantry Division Public Affairs