Princeton’s First Black Valedictorian Isn’t a DEI Hire—He’s the Blueprint for Black Excellence
When Nicholas Johnson became Princeton University’s first Black valedictorian in 2020, the headlines celebrated the milestone. But at PMJ Coaching, we saw something deeper: confirmation of what we already know to be true.
Black excellence is not rare. It’s simply overlooked.
Nicholas wasn’t the beneficiary of a quota or diversity checkbox—he is the embodiment of what happens when brilliance, support, and opportunity meet. And at PMJ Coaching, we’re on a mission to find the next Nicholas. Maybe he’s already in your home. Maybe she’s in your classroom. Maybe they’re your godchild, your neighbor, or your student.
But make no mistake—we’re looking for them.
Beyond the Label: Nicholas Johnson Earned It
Let’s be crystal clear: Nicholas Johnson is not a “DEI hire.”
He’s Phi Beta Kappa. He’s an operations research scholar. He’s a builder—of systems, of global water access, of futures. He’s a leader, a mentor, and a visionary.
And yes, he’s Black. That’s not a caveat. That’s part of his power.
His story is one of self-discovery, shifting academic passions, global service, and excellence pursued relentlessly. From Montreal to Princeton to MIT, Nicholas built his path brick by brick, not because someone “let him in,” but because he belonged all along.
The Search for the Next Nicholas Starts Now
At PMJ Coaching, we aren’t just helping students get into college. We are scouting for brilliance—especially in students of color who haven’t been told yet just how far they can go.
We are actively searching for:
- The student who thinks outside the box but has never been told that’s a superpower.
- The young scholar solving real problems but feels invisible in the classroom.
- The quiet leader who is too humble to call themselves exceptional.
Nicholas is not the exception. He is the evidence. There are more like him—but they need guidance, advocacy, and access to the kind of structured coaching that helps their gifts shine through the noise.
Excellence Is Not Exclusive
Too often, when a Black student like Nicholas rises to the top, people ask: “Was he chosen because of diversity?”
No. He was chosen because of dedication.
We reject the framing that Black excellence must always be qualified. At PMJ Coaching, we do not apologize for highlighting underrepresented brilliance—we double down on it.
We mentor students to:
✅ Discover their authentic story
✅ Elevate their academic and leadership profiles
✅ Pursue opportunities that align with their strengths
✅ Apply with strategy, confidence, and clarity
And we work with families to ensure their children aren’t left behind in an admissions process that rewards preparation—not just potential.
Your Child Deserves a Shot at This Level of Greatness
Nicholas Johnson didn’t just show what’s possible. He showed what’s probable when talent meets guidance.
If you know a student who could be next—whether they’re your child, niece, nephew, or student—we want to meet them.
Let’s work together to cultivate and coach the next generation of brilliant Black scholars, leaders, and world-changers. Because one Nicholas isn’t enough. We need dozens. Hundreds. Thousands.
PMJ Coaching is building a future where excellence is expected, not exceptional.
Are you ready to join us?
