Alumna Gives Back to University That Provided
So Much to Her

As a young girl, Cassandra D. Jenkins spent hours reading mystery novels and watching crime shows, where she imagined investigating crimes and solving cases alongside the heroes and heroines of her stories.

The Pensacola native knew from an early age who she wanted to become and found Florida State University to be the perfect place that would allow her to grow professionally and personally. Jenkins graduated magna cum laude with Bachelor of Science degrees in criminology and sociology in 1979 and earned her master's degree in criminology in 1981. Her commitment was not limited to her studies. Throughout her undergraduate and graduate career, she was a dedicated member of Lady Seminole Boosters, the Black Student Union, the American Criminal Justice Association and dormitory government, among other student organizations.

Jenkins' love for and service to her university continues through Seminole Boosters, where she serves on the national board of directors. She is also a lifetime member of the FSU Alumni Association and the FSU Black Alumni Association, of which she was a founding member. In addition, she serves as the national chairperson of the FSU Black Alumni Association's board of directors.

Jenkins further demonstrated her love for FSU by generously creating bequests that will benefit the Alumni Center, the Black Alumni Association and the women's basketball program. As a member of the James D. Westcott Legacy Society and the Custodes Lampadis Society, she gives back to the university that has given to her.

"Through gifts of time, talent and treasure, I can guarantee that the exceptional programs that mean a tremendous amount to me will continue," Jenkins said.  "Estate planning is more than simply saying, ‘I gave a gift.' It is saying a gift came from my heart to help someone else, who will hopefully then reach back and pay it forward, ensuring another's future success."

Jenkins, who was appointed by Gov. Charlie Crist and the Florida Cabinet to the Florida Parole Commission in October 2010, has committed her life to service. Since graduating she has served as an administrator, policy advisor, delegate and consultant for several institutions, including the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, Florida Department of Juvenile Justice and Children's Campaign, Inc.

"Estate planning is a testament to understanding your gift is bigger than you," Jenkins said. "It's about the history and future of our university. For me, giving to our university ensures minority students will be a part of Florida State's story forever. I am proud to give back to the university that has given me so much."