OUR STAFF

Dr. Torianto S. Johnson Sr  has a profound capacity for nurturing relationships and actively engaging with the community. With almost three decades of experience in pastoral ministry, community outreach, and spiritual care, Dr. Johnson has honed his abilities in bridging differences, fostering connections, and establishing enduring relationships with individuals from diverse political and theological backgrounds.

He is deeply committed to confronting social and economic inequality in a unifying rather than divisive manner. This commitment is not just a part of his work but a reflection of his values and beliefs. His vision for the community involves embracing individuals from all backgrounds and beliefs, Left and Right, Liberal and Conservative.

Dr. Johnson draws inspiration from Andy’s work in creating Next Chapter Reentry Project, which resonates with his own early efforts in the reentry field, including teaching Bible study in local jails, men’s and women’s homeless shelters, and halfway houses.

Dr. Johnson's academic journey began at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, where he laid the foundation for his future studies. He continued his education at Yale Divinity School, earning a Master of Arts in Religion with a concentration in theology, where he was the recipient of the Edward Ashley Walker Scholarship at Yale Divinity School, which is voted upon by faculty and awarded to a current student based on academic excellence. During his time at Yale, Dr. Johnson served as a chapel minister for Marquand Chapel and the Reverend Dr. Samuel N. Slie, Pastoral Fellow for the University Church in Yale. He completed his doctorate at Duke Divinity School in 2024, marking a significant milestone in his academic career.

His life is enriched by his marriage to his wife of thirty years, Angela Johnson, and their four children: Torianna, Torisa, Torianto Jr., and Toriah.

“Through my personal experiences, I have truly appreciated the profound impact of community service in fostering connections and engagement within our society. My unwavering commitment to community service is a testament to my firm belief in its transformative power.”

Contact: Torianto.Johnson@NextChapterRochester.org

Elsa Craven was born and raised in Rochester, MN. In 2024, Elsa graduated with a Bachelor's Degree in Gender and Women's Studies and a minor in Psychology from Minnesota State University, Mankato. Elsa has a passion for helping others, which has led her to continue her education. She is currently in the process of completing a Master's Degree in Clinical Counseling Psychology from Capella University, while working at Next Chapter Reentry Project. 

Contact: Elsa.Craven@NextChapterRochester.org

Erica Bryant joins Next Chapter Reentry Project with more than twelve years of

experience in education, equity leadership, and community-centered support. As a

longtime educator, she has built a career grounded in compassion, clear

communication, and a deep belief in every person’s capacity for growth and restoration.

Erica’s background also includes many years as a dance instructor and competition

coach, where she cultivated a coaching style rooted in patience, encouragement, and

high expectations. Through this work, she developed a talent for motivating individuals,

building trust, and helping people recognize their own strengths — skills that translate

directly into her trauma‑informed, dignity‑centered approach to supporting

justice‑involved community members.

With extensive experience guiding individuals and families through major transitions,

Erica is committed to creating spaces where people feel seen, respected, and

supported as they navigate new chapters in their lives.

Erica is passionate about equity, access, and community connection. She is excited to

contribute her organizational strengths, collaborative spirit, and unwavering belief in

second chances to the mission of Next Chapter Reentry Project.

 Brittany is from Rochester, MN. She has worked with high-barrier populations for 5+ years in therapy, coordination, and supportive housing. 

Brittany is a strong advocate for social justice and holds a dedicated passion for helping others to overcome barriers and reach their goals while providing support for spiritual, mental, and emotional health. She believes in encouraging and strengthening positive "I can" mindsets. Her approach is rooted in person-centered collaboration to help individuals feel more connected to their personal goals and encouraging them to make space for what they could achieve beyond that. 



Brittany's educational background includes a Bachelors in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, further education in graduate school in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, and is currently working towards her Masters in Social Work.

Her passion for the field is reflected in her Rule of Life to help others in all circumstances and to go above and beyond for the people and populations she serves. She lives by the statement, "The human experience is valuable, each individual is invaluable". 

When she is not at work, she is likely spending time with her husband and family, enjoying a good book, writing, volunteering, or hiking.

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 Kris joined NCRP in January of 2026 as an intern from St. Mary's University, and is currently enrolled in an MSW program for LCSW / LADC. His previous experience has been in education, customer service, and healthcare. He is in recovery himself and knows the struggles of addiction and mental health; he is also a CPRS (Certified Peer Recovery Specialist). The Gospel is a central element of who he is as a professed member of OFS (Secular Franciscan).