Xananeh Tucker
East Mecklenburg High School
Leadership has always been one of Xananeh’s greatest strengths. During her senior year at East Mecklenburg High School, she expanded her influence across campus, embraced new opportunities, and continued preparing for a successful future.
When Xananeh joined Communities In Schools, she quickly formed a strong connection with her CIS Student Support Specialist, Ms. Salena Barze. Recognizing her leadership potential, Ms. Barze helped connect Xananeh to opportunities that strengthened her future readiness while continuing to develop the skills that have made her a leader among her peers. 
Through CIS, Xananeh participated in FAFSA and scholarship events, gained access to valuable resources, and built relationships that supported her success throughout her senior year. Her strong communication skills, initiative, and dedication allowed her to make the most of every opportunity.
Xananeh serves as Vice President of Diamond Stars Club, Group Leader for a PATCH research project, and President and co-founder of the Eagle Empress Majorette Club. She is also completing a social impact capstone project through DifferenceMakers®CLT. Xananeh also volunteers at Rama Road Elementary School, where she spends time tutoring elementary-aged students, assisting staff and volunteering at afterschool events.
Her leadership and commitment to service have earned her numerous recognitions, including the Heart of the Club Award through Diamond Stars Club, the DifferenceMakers®CLT Excellence Award, successful completion of the PATCH Program, and membership in both the National Honor Society and National Honor Society for Dance Arts.
Academically, Xananeh has maintained a very strong GPA while balancing leadership, service, and extracurricular involvement. All her involvement, leadership and dedication to her future has paid off. This fall, Xananeh will attend her dream school, Winston-Salem State University, where she plans to major in Rehabilitation Studies and minor in Psychology.
“Becoming a CIS Scholar was one of the best decisions I made during my high school journey. This program prepared me for success by giving me the tools, connections, and opportunities to thrive both during and after high school. Through programs like DifferenceMakers®, I developed leadership and professional skills, expanded my network, built social capital, and gained the confidence to pursue my future goals.” Xananeh explains.
Xananeh’s journey demonstrates how leadership grows when students are empowered to build on their strengths. Through the support of Communities In Schools and Ms. Barze, she continued to develop her confidence, expand her opportunities, and prepare for a bright future.
Congratulations to Xananeh , we are so proud of you and can not wait to see what is next!
