SALISBURY, N.C. – Rowan-Cabarrus Community College celebrated the achievements of its student leaders at its 20th Annual Student Leadership Awards Celebration at the end of the 2025-2026 academic year. Held in the College’s Teaching Auditorium at North Campus in Salisbury, the event recognized students who have made a meaningful impact through their involvement and leadership.
The celebration highlighted student leaders from across the College, including those representing 14 clubs and organizations, along with Student Government Association officers, academic senators and Rowan-Cabarrus Student Ambassadors. These students have played an active role in shaping the student experience and extending the College’s impact into the community.
“What stands out about our student leaders is not only what they have accomplished, but how they have taken ownership of their time at the College,” said President of Rowan-Cabarrus Dr. Carol S. Spalding. “While balancing responsibilities, they have continued to take initiative and move forward even when facing challenges. We see in these students a strong sense of purpose and a willingness to lead in ways that create a lasting impact on campus.”
Members of the 2025-2026 Student Government Association Executive Board were also recognized, including Davita Johnson, membership officer; Alisha-Marie Figueroa, secretary and treasurer; Nicky Robinson, vice president; and Jalil Agovic, president. These student leaders have supported engagement efforts, represented student interests and helped guide campus initiatives.
Rowan-Cabarrus Student Ambassadors Lance Brush, Janie “Coltrane” Cook, Baonhia Lor, Shubh Srivastava, Naomi Stanish and Colin Williams were honored for their dedication to representing the College by supporting campus events and connecting with the community. As members of this selective leadership program, they served as ambassadors of the College and the Rowan-Cabarrus Foundation, engaging with prospective students, families and community partners.
Riley House received the TRIO Outstanding Leader Award for his leadership, engagement and commitment to supporting others through the TRIO program and campus involvement. As a student in both the Associate in Science and Associate in Engineering programs, he has remained actively involved across campus, including participation in student organizations, academic leadership roles and work-study. House was also recognized for serving as an Academic Senator for Engineering and Business Technologies, helping to communicate needs, share feedback and support initiatives that enhance the student experience.
“At Rowan-Cabarrus, Student Life and Leadership is about empowering students to discover their voice, develop their strengths and take an active role in shaping their educational journey,” said Dr. Natasha Lipscomb, Vice President of Student Success Services. “Through student leadership experiences, service opportunities and meaningful engagement, students gain the confidence, workplace skills and sense of belonging that support their academic success, personal well-being and future career goals.”
The event also included the presentation of four Outstanding Leadership Awards, recognizing students whose contributions have made a lasting impression across the College. Recipients were nominated by their advisors in recognition of their impact throughout the year. Each nomination was reviewed by a committee of faculty and staff from across the College.
Parker Bales received the 2026 Silver Leadership Award, which recognizes a first-year student who demonstrates a strong commitment to academic excellence while maintaining a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher. As a member of Future Business Leaders of America Collegiate, he has shown early involvement on campus and a willingness to step outside of his comfort zone.
Kahde-Mae Nemah received the 2026 Golden Leadership Award, which recognizes a student who demonstrates a strong commitment to academic excellence, maintains a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher and sustains involvement in a campus organization. Her dedication to the Radiography Club spanned more than two semesters, during which she served as secretary and treasurer, contributed to planning events, supported fellow students and strengthened the organization.
Dakota Lopez received the 2026 Outstanding Community Service Award, which recognizes a student who has demonstrated exemplary service and a strong commitment to improving the community. During her term as vice president of finance for Future Business Leaders of America Collegiate, she helped support the organization’s activities and initiatives. Her impact extends beyond campus through volunteer work and her role in developing the FBLA-C Career Closet, which provides students with professional attire for interviews, career fairs and other career opportunities.
Jalil Agovic received the 2026 Eddie H. Myers Leadership Award, named for former Rowan-Cabarrus Vice President of Student Services Eddie H. Myers, whose dedication to student leadership and campus involvement helped shape the College’s student experience. The award honors a student who demonstrates self-discipline, good citizenship, a commitment to lifelong learning and the ability to overcome adversity. As Student Government Association president and FBLA Collegiate vice president, Agovic provided consistent leadership while supporting student initiatives and strengthening campus organizations.
The Student Success Champion Award, selected by the Student Government Association Executive Board, was presented to Student Activities Coordinator Amber King. The award recognizes a faculty or staff member, alumnus or supporter who demonstrates a strong commitment to student success through mentorship and support. King, a graduate of Rowan-Cabarrus, is known for creating a welcoming environment while connecting students to opportunities that help them grow.
The event highlighted the many ways students contribute to Rowan-Cabarrus and communities across Rowan and Cabarrus counties through leadership, service and civic engagement. As the College continues to grow, Rowan-Cabarrus remains focused on providing the programs, spaces and leadership opportunities that help students build connections, develop professional skills and prepare to contribute across the region. Current students interested in getting involved at Rowan-Cabarrus are encouraged to explore the many opportunities available through Student Life and Leadership, including clubs, organizations and campus events. For more information, visit www.rccc.edu/studentlife or contact Director of Adult Learner and Student Engagement Programs Dr. Carrie Graham at carrie.graham@rccc.edu.