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Rose Hill native Felita C. Carr, a 1992 graduate of James Kenan High School, is making a lasting mark in education with more than 25 years of service dedicated to student success.
Carr began her career as a high school mathematics teacher at Union High School, where she first discovered her passion for guiding students to reach their potential. She later transitioned into higher education at James Sprunt Community College, where she served as a Human Resources Department Instructor and Academic Advisor for the Educational Talent Search program (TRIO) for over 15 years. Her work with TRIO laid the foundation for her career-long commitment to helping students overcome barriers to education.
In 2016, Carr joined Johnston Community College (JCC), where she went on to serve in several TRIO leadership roles. Through her vision and leadership, she not only expanded holistic student support but also embedded them into the fabric of the college, making services such as the Elevation Market food pantry, Grab & Go snack stations, and wellness initiatives available to all students. Her efforts have positioned JCC as a model institution for addressing students’ basic needs alongside academics.
She is also providing current statewide leadership through the NC Community College System’s Student Success Center, focusing on access and retention strategies to benefit students across North Carolina, where she works with all 58 community colleges in the state.
This year, Carr was appointed Dean of Retention & Student Support at Johnston Community College, a role that places her at the forefront of efforts to strengthen persistence, graduation, and transfer outcomes for students. Her leadership, vision, and deep care for students have also earned her recognition as a finalist for the 2025 Johnston Community College Staff Member of the Year Award.
She is an Adjunct Assistant Professor in the Organizational Learning and Leadership (Ed.D.) Program in the UNC School of Education at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
Carr holds a Doctor of Education degree from Morgan State University, a Master’s degree from Central Michigan University, and a Bachelor of Science degree from North Carolina Central University. She is also a certified Clifton Strengths coach and a devoted member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., where her leadership has left a lasting imprint. As a charter member and the first president of the Duplin County chapter, Chi Iota Omega, she helped lay the foundation for service, sisterhood, and excellence in her home community. Her influence extended beyond the local level, as she went on to serve in key roles with several regional directors, demonstrating her ability to lead with vision, inspire others, and strengthen the organization at every tier.
Carr’s journey is a testament to the power of education and perseverance. She continues to inspire students, colleagues, and her hometown community with her unwavering dedication to excellence and service.
She is the daughter of Donald and the late Edna Glaspie Carroll of Rose Hill. She is married to James Carr Jr, formerly from Wallace and they reside in Clayton.
