Cassandra Jenkins

• M.Ed., Western Carolina University
• B.S., East Carolina University  

As Director of Housing and Residence Life, Cassandra brings more than a decade of progressive leadership experience in higher education and residence life. 

Cassandra has dedicated her career to enhancing the student experience through housing, leadership development, and community building. Since joining Catawba College, she has provided vision and oversight in the areas of Resident Assistant recruitment and training, crisis response, and community engagement initiatives. 

Her career includes leadership roles at the University of Massachusetts Boston, North Carolina State University, the University of North Carolina Wilmington, and the University of North Carolina at Pembroke. In these positions, Cassandra has supervised student and professional staff, developed community development models, led student conduct and leadership programs, and advised award-winning student organizations such as the Inter-Residence Council and the National Residence Hall Honorary. 

Cassandra’s contributions to the field of student affairs have been recognized regionally and nationally. She has received honors including the National Advisor of the Year from the National Association of College and University Residence Halls (NACURH) and the Regional Advisor of the Year from the South Atlantic Affiliate of College and University Residence Halls (SAACURH), along with multiple leadership recognition pins for her outstanding service. 

She holds a Master of Education in College Student Personnel from Western Carolina University and a Bachelor of Science in Communication from East Carolina University, with a minor in Alcohol and Drug Abuse Studies. 

As Director, Cassandra will oversee the strategic vision and daily operation of Housing and Residence Life, ensuring students have access to safe and supportive communities that foster academic success, leadership, and personal development.