University will unveil its new Center for Applied Leadership and Community Development

Johnson C. Smith University President Dr. Ronald L. Carter will host a special meeting at 6 p.m. Thursday, June 11, 2009, for Beatties Ford Road area neighborhood association members.

The purpose of the meeting, which will include a dinner, is to unveil the University's new Center for Applied Leadership and Community Development and to explain how the center's leader, Sherrill Hampton, will be able to assist the groups with their community projects and issues.

The initiative is part of the president's vision which he unveiled during his April inauguration.  Dr. Carter wants JCSU to become Charlotte's Premier Independent Urban University. He believes that in order for the University to achieve this goal, it must reach beyond campus gates and serve as advocates not only for JCSU campus members but local residents as well.

Media are invited to attend the special kickoff meeting. If you would like more details or interviews with the center's director, please call JCSU Public Relations Director Benny L. Smith at 704-378-1032. The meeting will be held in the Grimes Lounge located on the 2nd floor in the Student Union.