CJF America’s Leadership Honored at the North Carolina Governor’s Mansion: Celebrating Mentors and Community Leaders
Last month, CJF America’s leadership had the honor of attending a momentous awards ceremony at the North Carolina Governor’s Mansion, celebrating those who have made extraordinary contributions to their communities. The event, which highlighted mentors, community leaders, and changemakers, was an inspiring reminder of the power of community-driven progress. It was a privilege to witness the recognition of individuals who, like us at CJF America, are committed to empowering underserved communities and making a tangible impact on the lives of those in need.
Among those present were Kristen Picot, our President and Executive in charge of the Cornerstone America initiative, Rhoda Hormenoo, our Senior Vice President of Special Programs, and Nick Gallardo, our Chief Financial Officer. Their presence at the ceremony was a testament to the dedication and vision that drive our organization forward. Kristen Picot’s leadership and unwavering commitment to creativity and innovation are what fuel our mission, and her focus on integrating arts and technology into the Cornerstone Project is transforming communities across the country.
As Executive in charge of Cornerstone America, Kristen is leading the charge on the development of smart community centers that blend education, creative arts, and workforce development in rural and underserved areas. These centers provide access to life-changing resources such as coding schools, music production studios, and mobile healthcare programs. Kristen’s vision for these centers is simple but profound: to empower individuals by equipping them with the tools necessary to succeed in an ever-changing world.
Kristen was joined by Rhoda Hormenoo, whose work in the Special Programs division continues to foster meaningful engagement within communities, particularly in the areas of mental health and community healing. Rhoda’s deep commitment to social equity ensures that every aspect of our project addresses the emotional and personal growth of the people we serve. Her efforts are essential in shaping our approach to creating spaces that are not only educational but also nurturing and healing.
Nick Gallardo, our Chief Financial Officer, also joined the leadership team at the ceremony. Though often behind the scenes, Nick plays a vital role in ensuring the financial sustainability of the Cornerstone Project. His leadership in securing the resources necessary to fund and sustain these community centers has been instrumental. Nick’s passion for rural development and commitment to improving opportunities for underserved populations continues to be a cornerstone of our work, ensuring that our initiatives have the support and infrastructure to thrive for the long term.
At the Governor’s Mansion, our leadership was joined by other distinguished community leaders, mentors, and advocates who are working tirelessly to make a difference. The event was a powerful reminder of the importance of collaboration, mentorship, and the shared goal of creating pathways to opportunity in every community. CJF America was honored to stand alongside so many incredible individuals who, like us, are dedicated to making a difference and breaking down the barriers that limit opportunity.
The recognition at the Governor’s Mansion served as both a celebration and a reaffirmation of our mission. It reminded us that true leadership is about more than just vision—it’s about action, impact, and creating lasting change. As we continue to expand the Cornerstone Project, we are more committed than ever to providing communities with the resources and support they need to succeed.
The Cornerstone America initiative is just the beginning. We are creating smart community centers that serve as hubs for technology, music, and workforce development—spaces where individuals can grow, learn, and prepare for successful careers in a rapidly changing world. With the continued support of our leadership team, and partnerships with organizations like Neyius Corporation, we know that we can transform the lives of countless individuals and communities across the nation.
To learn more about how CJF America is empowering communities through the Cornerstone America project, visit cjfamerica.org.
Together, we are building a future where opportunity knows no bounds.