Governor Robert W. Scott Leadership Award Nominee

Kenyia Dillon: The Perfect Blend of Art, Heart, and Leadership

Carteret CC student inspires others through creativity, kindness, and leadership, earning recognition as the college’s nominee for the Governor Robert W. Scott Leadership Award

When you meet Kenyia Dillon, one of the first things you notice is her bright smile and calm, creative energy. Whether she’s painting, leading a student meeting, or helping with a campus event, there’s a sense of genuine joy in everything she does. For Kenyia, leadership isn’t about titles or recognition — it’s about kindness, connection, and lifting others up.

As an Associate in Arts in Teacher Preparation student, Kenyia brings her creativity into every space she’s part of. Her goal is to become an art educator, and it’s easy to imagine her one day standing in a classroom surrounded by color, inspiring students to see the world through new eyes.

At Carteret Community College, Kenyia’s presence is felt everywhere. She’s active in the Student Government Association (SGA) and SAGA, always stepping up to participate and support her peers. Her involvement isn’t just about staying busy — it’s about building community. “She’s an all-around excellent student,” shared Karen Bochnovic. “She seems to be involved in every event on campus.”

Faculty members describe her as someone who radiates positivity and leads by example. Ryan Adrick noted, “She’s not one of my students, but she’s volunteered many times to help in my classroom as a model. She’s gone above and beyond to help others, always with a smile and a genuine desire to make a difference.”

In every project or event, Kenyia adds her own thoughtful touch — a reflection of her artistic soul. She’s the kind of person who listens deeply, encourages others freely, and always looks for ways to make people feel included. Mark Snyder, one of her instructors, described her as “a future art educator who blends her creativity with her natural leadership.”

Her peers often say she’s the person who always shows up — the one who’s first to volunteer, first to cheer others on, and the one who makes everyone around her feel valued. Whether she’s helping organize an event, serving her classmates, or simply being a friendly face in the crowd, Kenyia embodies the quiet strength of true leadership.

Her dedication and compassion have earned her recognition as Carteret CC’s nominee for the Governor Robert W. Scott Leadership Award, which honors students who exemplify service, integrity, and commitment to community.

Kenyia Dillon’s story reminds us that leadership doesn’t always mean standing in the spotlight. Sometimes, it’s about showing up with heart, creativity, and kindness — and making the spaces around you a little brighter because you were there.