As the headmistress at Bramwell Hall, Evelyn Johnson looked after many young women, including Celia Fitzgerald. Evelyn had raised Celia after the death of her parents. Celia had recently graduated from Bramwell and had stayed on as an art history teacher. Evelyn watched over Celia carefully and was the contact between Celia and her guardian, although Celia did not know who her guardian was. Under the guardian's orders, Evelyn ensured that Celia remained sheltered and innocent.

When Celia began dating Pete Cortlandt, a man with a playboy reputation, Evelyn tried to interfere in their relationship. When Celia spoke to Evelyn about the strange visions she experienced, Evelyn explained that the stress from being involved with a man like Pete was most likely the cause. Evelyn supported Celia's decision to end her relationship. Evelyn later changed her opinion about Pete after an anonymous donor arranged for Celia to win a date with Pete during a bachelor auction. She helped Celia prepare for her big date.