Exceptional Queens University Student Leader Jazzie Lee Earns Community Impact Student Award
Jazzie Lee ’27 recently received the Community Impact Student Award for exceptional leadership and service from North Carolina Campus Engagement, a statewide network of colleges and universities committed to preparing students for civic and social responsibility. Each year the organization honors one student leader at each member school for their dedication to community involvement and their ability to inspire their peers.
Lee was nominated by LaDarius Thompson, Ed.D., director of initiatives for academic excellence and engagement at Queens University of Charlotte. “Jazzie exemplifies the qualities we value at Queens University through her leadership, resilience, and commitment to creating a more inclusive campus community,” said Thompson. “She brings a unique ability to connect with her peers, inspire action, and foster meaningful dialogue on important issues.”
During her time at Queens, Lee has been highly engaged as a leader both on campus and in the community. As a Civic and Community Engagement Fellow, she spearheaded successful initiatives that motivated students, particularly first-time voters and marginalized groups, to participate in the democratic process. Her role as vice president of the Black Student Union further solidified her commitment to diversity, inclusion, and social justice.
“Jazzie is truly exceptional due to her unwavering commitment to personal and academic excellence, and her remarkable ability to inspire others to do the same,” said Thompson. “She consistently leads by example, whether through her involvement in campus initiatives or her dedication to mentoring fellow students. Her passion for service, determination to make a difference, and infectious positive energy make her a role model for all of us.”
When asked about the honor, Lee said, “I was honestly surprised! Being on a smaller campus, sometimes it can be hard to see if the work you’re doing is truly having an impact. But knowing that you’ve inspired at least one person is truly life-changing.”
Lee intends to carry the lessons she’s learned at Queens with her for years to come. “Doing this work has encouraged me to get more involved in the civic field,” she said. “Whether through politics, city work, or nonprofits, I realized I have truly found my calling. I love helping people and the hands-on nature of being involved.”
In addition to Lee’s achievements, Queens University was recently recognized by the ALL IN Campus Democracy Challenge as a 2024 Most Engaged Campus for College Student Voting. This distinction honors the university’s comprehensive efforts to enhance nonpartisan student voter participation and cultivate engaged, civic-minded students in Charlotte and beyond.