NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Davidson County Register of Deeds Karen Johnson has received the 2026 Order of the Eastern Star Citizen of the Year Award, recognizing her leadership and service to the community.
Johnson received the honor during the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Tennessee Annual Gala on July 25 at the Sheraton Music City Nashville Airport. The event was held in partnership with the Arvin W. Glass Tennessee Charitable Foundation and the Excelsior Grand Chapter Order of the Eastern Star, Tennessee Jurisdiction, Prince Hall Affiliation, as part of the organization’s 144th Annual Session.
The Citizen of the Year Award recognizes an individual whose leadership, integrity and commitment to public service have made a meaningful impact on the community.
“Karen Johnson exemplifies servant leadership through her unwavering commitment to public service, integrity, and improving the lives of the citizens of Davidson County,” said Dr. Crystal E. Banks, 32nd Grand Worthy Matron of the Excelsior Grand Chapter.
Johnson said the recognition was particularly meaningful because of her family’s longstanding connection to the Masonic and Eastern Star organizations.
“It is a tremendous honor to receive the 2026 Order of the Eastern Star Citizen of the Year Award,” Johnson said. “I am deeply humbled by this recognition and grateful to be acknowledged by an organization whose values of faith, integrity, compassion, and service have been part of my family’s legacy.”
Johnson said the award inspires her to continue serving the community “with humility, purpose, and a steadfast commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of others.”
Johnson’s father was a Mason, while her mother and grandmother were members of the Order of the Eastern Star. She said receiving an award from an organization that has played a significant role in her family’s history added to the significance of the honor.
The Excelsior Grand Chapter, Order of the Eastern Star, Tennessee Jurisdiction, Prince Hall Affiliation, includes more than 70 chapters across Tennessee. The organization has a longstanding focus on charitable service, leadership and community involvement.
