Mississippi Business Journal Names BREAD Director as One of 2025’s “Top 40 Under 40”

Grace Kent Johnson, co-founder and Senior Director of BREAD and Managing Partner of Blue Hen Agency, has been selected as one of the 2025 Mississippi Business Journal’s 2025 “Top 40 Under 40” honorees. The annual award recognizes emerging leaders across Mississippi under 40 who are making significant contributions to their industries and communities, with class members selected by a panel of business and community leaders. Honorees were celebrated at the Top 40 Under 40 Awards Luncheon on June 25 at the Old Capitol Inn in Jackson, with Mississippi Lt. Governor Delbert Hosemann delivering the keynote address. Grace was one of two Pine Belt women named to the 2025 class, alongside Dr. Katie Anthony of The University of Southern Mississippi—a recognition that reflects the strength of Hattiesburg’s growing leadership in business, marketing, and economic development. Since founding BREAD in 2017, Grace has grown the agency into one of Mississippi’s largest brand, marketing, and advertising firms, serving over 250 clients across 50 industries and 11 states.