Name: Jenny Matz
Leadership Charlotte Class: 32
Title: Community Relations, UNC Charlotte
Hometown: Raleigh, NC
Education: B.A. Queens University of Charlotte; Masters of Strategic Communication, Queens University of Charlotte
Current personal or leadership goals: To build a life based on my happiness
What do you remember most vividly from your Leadership Charlotte experience and why?
Far and away, the new relationships I made were the most valued part of my experience. These relationships challenged my beliefs and convictions, provided humor and inspired me to be a better individual. Ultimately, some changed who I am as a person.
If you could describe your Leadership Charlotte experience in three words or phrases what would they be?
The experience was incredibly illuminating, thought-provoking and motivating. Having grown up in Charlotte, I always assumed I was fairly knowledgeable about the city. Going through this program, I realized that was far from accurate. Because I was so young when I moved here, I took most things at face value – I never explored why things were the way they were, or asked the deeper questions. This program expanded my view of Charlotte in surprising and meaningful ways. From that, my view and volunteer path were forever altered.
Why is Leadership Charlotte important?
It’s the education and knowledge base that make this program so essential to our city. It is as powerful and motivating of an experience for a newcomer as it is for a native.
Advice to current participants:
Dig in as deeply as you can; if you allow it, this can be a life-changing experience. Also, embrace your fear and discomfort – they’re powerful indicators that you have room to grow.
What are you doing in the community these days?
I’m fortunate that my job enables me to be incredibly involved within our community – and my Leadership Charlotte experience enhances that. In my personal life, I’m on Leadership Charlotte’s Marketing Committee, on Queens University of Charlotte’s Alumni Board and a board member for the arts website “Charlotte Viewpoint.”