Meet the Farmers Market staff: Will Johnson

Published on February 25, 2026

If you’ve recently visited Lenexa’s Farmers Market, admired the thriving community gardens in several parks, or attended a nature program, chances are you’ve already benefited from Will Johnson’s work — even if you haven’t met him yet. As a newer program coordinator with the Parks & Recreation Department, Johnson plays a behind-the-scenes role in bringing some of the City’s most vibrant, hands-on experiences to life. 

We caught up with Will to learn more about his role, his passion for community programming, and what excites him most about the seasons ahead.

What is your background? What were you doing before taking on this role?

I moved to Lenexa in April 2025 from Des Moines, Iowa. I graduated from Iowa State University in fall of 2024 with a bachelor’s degree in forestry. Before this role, I was an events coordinator and team lead at a plant store and nursery where I taught botanical classes such as plant care, terrarium building, and more. While working there, I participated as a vendor in many farmers markets and taught as a speaker at master gardener conventions. 

Why did you want to be part of the Lenexa Farmers Market?

Working with the community has always been a highlight of previous jobs, and the Lenexa Farmers Market brings together a really great group of people. The people and vendors that make up this community are what make this market successful, and being able to be a part of the inner workings of that is really special.

What has been most rewarding about working at the Farmers Market?

Seeing the people shopping and enjoying themselves! There are new and returning faces at each market, and knowing the market is able to draw new people in as well as keep people coming back is a great feeling.

What’s a behind-the-scenes task at the Farmers Market that people would be surprised to learn about?

Holiday and Winter Farmers Market events last three hours, but they take three hours to set up and three hours to take down indoors. Twice as long as the market itself!

Describe the Farmers Market in three words.

Fun, local, community.

What do you hope people take away from their visit to the Farmers Market?

That it’s genuinely a great place to shop for groceries, household items, etc. A weekend trip to the market can save you so much time and money at the grocery store, all while supporting local small businesses and growing closer to your community.

If you could recommend one “don’t miss” item for first-time visitors, what would it be?

I really love the soap from Madd House Hill. You’re bound to find one you’ll love!

If the Farmers Market had a blooper reel, what moment would be on it?

Me dropping hundreds of tokens on the floor while putting them away.

What are your current favorite foods or products at the Market? 

Mac’s Cinnamon Rolls has blueberry pie cinnamon rolls.

What’s something you want to try at the Farmers Market, but haven’t yet?

I definitely need a breakfast sandwich from KC Pancake Co. 

What do you like to do when you are not at the Farmers Market?

I’m very outdoorsy, I love going on hikes with my dog. I also have far too many houseplants that I’m always taking care of.