A former executive at a prominent nonprofit educational institution has accused her employer of discrimination and retaliation, claiming she was denied reasonable accommodations for her disability and ultimately terminated after more than two decades of service. The lawsuit was filed by Felicia Johnson in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia on March 2, 2026, naming Colonial Williamsburg Foundation as the defendant.
According to the complaint, Johnson worked for Colonial Williamsburg Foundation (CWF) for 23 years, most recently serving as Executive Director of Annual Giving and Memberships. She alleges that CWF violated federal and state laws by failing to provide reasonable accommodations for her diagnosed social anxiety disorder, discriminating against her on the basis of both race and disability, retaliating against her for protected activity, and terminating her employment in September 2024.
The filing outlines Johnson’s history with CWF, stating she was the first and only African-American female with a disability in a leadership position within the organization’s Development Division. Johnson reports that she consistently received excellent performance reviews throughout her tenure. She notes recognition from past presidents, board members, and colleagues for building strong fundraising programs.
Johnson states that after disclosing her social anxiety diagnosis in 2007, she initially received accommodations such as limited participation in public events. However, she claims these accommodations were revoked without explanation in 2017 under new management. The complaint describes how subsequent supervisors required increased public-facing duties not included in her job description despite knowledge of her condition.
The document details several instances where Johnson says she was passed over for advancement opportunities or had responsibilities removed from her role while less qualified white colleagues were promoted or given new positions. She also alleges that false complaints were filed against her by other employees but found unsubstantiated upon investigation.
Johnson asserts that requests to restore or continue accommodations were ignored or delayed by management and human resources staff. In one instance described in the filing, paperwork documenting prior accommodation agreements could not be located when requested by Johnson after being prompted by a supervisor to provide proof.
The complaint further claims that management repeatedly pressured Johnson to increase visibility through presentations or public engagements despite ongoing medical documentation supporting limitations related to social anxiety disorder. These demands allegedly intensified after Johnson raised concerns about discriminatory treatment internally and with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).
According to court documents, Johnson experienced significant stress-related health issues including panic attacks requiring emergency care due to what she describes as a hostile work environment. She contends that other employees without disabilities were not subjected to similar requirements or scrutiny.
On September 5, 2024, Johnson was informed that her position had been eliminated due to redundancy following internal restructuring. She argues this action was taken while she was actively seeking updated medical documentation for accommodation purposes—a process allegedly hindered by delays from human resources.
The lawsuit lists multiple counts including violations of the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act (ADAAA), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Section 1981 regarding equal rights under law, and the Virginia Human Rights Act (VHRA). Each count alleges adverse actions taken because of Johnson’s race or disability status or in retaliation for protected activities such as filing complaints about discrimination.
Johnson seeks back pay and future wages lost due to termination; compensatory damages for emotional distress; punitive damages; legal fees; declaratory judgment recognizing unlawful practices; an order requiring CWF to implement non-discriminatory policies; employee training regarding obligations under federal law; pre-judgment and post-judgment interest; reimbursement for out-of-pocket expenses; and any additional relief deemed appropriate by the court.
The case is identified as Civil Action No.: 1:26-cv-00610. Felicia Johnson is represented by attorney Monique A. Miles of Old Towne Associates P.C., Alexandria, Virginia.
Source: 126cv00610_Johnson_v_Colonial_Williamsburg_Foundation_Complaint_Eastern_District_Virginia.pdf
