Name: Carol Hardison
Leadership Charlotte (LC) Class: 31
Title/Company: CEO, Crisis Assistance Ministry
Hometown: Jacksonville, Florida
Education: BS, Math & Computer Science
Current personal or leadership goals:
What advice would you give to current Leadership Charlotte participants?
Embrace every moment as a growth opportunity. LC presents us with unique chances to learn from our history to understand the systems that shape our community and truly get to know people we might not have encountered otherwise. Each interaction offers a chance to reflect on our role in addressing the challenges our community faces. Take these moments to think deeply, learn more, and prepare to contribute even further in the world than you already are today.
What’s a lesson that you learned through LC that has stuck with you and why?
You can never learn enough about Charlotte, and the more we know, the better we can contribute. I joined LC later in life (over 40!) after being deeply engaged in the community for nearly two decades. The insights and knowledge gained through LC are unparalleled—something that could not be learned anywhere else. LC truly is a treasure!
What would you like to see Leadership Charlotte alumni get involved in and why?
My natural inclination would be to recommend getting involved in the human services system, but in reality, each person should follow their passion—whether it’s in the arts, sciences, environment, or any other field. LC provides the perfect platform to make connections and get involved in areas that truly resonate with you.
Favorite way to spend a weekend in Charlotte:
Attending one of the 17 Charlotte FC home matches. I’ve always got an extra seat so join me for some football.
Favorite nonprofit or community organization in Charlotte and why:
The one I am dedicated to 24×7 … Crisis Assistance Ministry. Secondly, it would be the Center for Community Transitions.