One Voice, 600,000 Students: Jennifer Maldonado-Castro Leads the Way

Carteret Community College’s Jennifer Maldonado-Castro Wins Prestigious State Leadership Award

We are thrilled to celebrate Carteret Community College’s very own Student Government Association President, Jennifer Maldonado-Castro, who was named both Regional Winner and Statewide Overall Winner of the Governor Robert W. Scott Leadership Award at the North Carolina Comprehensive Community College Student Government Association (N4CSGA) Conference!

This prestigious award honors outstanding curriculum student leadership and service—and Jennifer truly exemplifies what it means to lead with purpose, passion, and heart.

Jennifer has made an incredible impact at Carteret CC and throughout the North Carolina Community College System. During her time as President of N4CSGA, she:

• Served as an ex-officio member of the NC State Board of Community Colleges, representing over 600,000 students during the Summer and Fall 2024 semesters.

• Helped shape long-term statewide strategies focused on equity, student success, and policy reform.

• Advocated for student needs including mental health resources, workforce readiness, and period poverty awareness.

• Planned and hosted the Eastern Division Meeting at Carteret CC, uniting student leaders from across the region.

• Led the Fall 2024 State Conference at Forsyth Tech, engaging all 58 NC community colleges.

Jennifer is a proud participant in TRIO Student Support Services, where her enthusiasm and dedication earned her the TRIO Outstanding Freshman Award. She has been a strong advocate for academic success, peer support, and community involvement, always encouraging others to reach their full potential.

As a C-STEP (Carolina Student Transfer Excellence Program) student, she is on track to transfer to UNC-Chapel Hill, furthering her education with confidence, purpose, and a solid foundation built at Carteret CC.

Jennifer has also made a lasting impact as a leader in SAGA (Sexuality and Gender Alliance), where she was recognized with the SAGA Leadership Award in 2024. Through this role, she has worked to build a more inclusive, supportive, and affirming campus community by:

• Promoting LGBTQIA+ awareness and education

• Organizing events and safe spaces for dialogue

• Encouraging empathy, visibility, and acceptance on campus

Her efforts have fostered a culture of respect and unity that continues to benefit students across all walks of life.

As the Public Information Officer for Carteret CC’s SkillsUSA chapter, Jennifer led communications and outreach to promote career and technical education. She represented the college at state and national conferences and is a SkillsUSA State and National Gold Medalist in a communication-based competition.

Jennifer’s leadership extends beyond campus. She has:

• Raised funds for hurricane relief

• Volunteered as a translator for Spanish-speaking families

• Tutored children in underserved neighborhoods

• Participated in Veterans Day events

• Organized nursing home visits for student volunteers

• Inspired families through her involvement with the NC Science Festival’s STEM Day at Carteret CC

Jennifer Maldonado-Castro continues to lead with heart, drive, and vision. She represents the very best of Carteret Community College—and we are beyond proud of her many accomplishments and the impact she’s made here and across North Carolina.