This article was originally published by the Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering. The Park Scholarships staff and community would like to congratulate Jalen and uplift his accomplishment! To earn the nomination for the Engineering Leadership Award is an incredible honor that reflects a strong character and a deep dedication to academics.
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Jalen Lucas is the CBE nominee for the College of Engineering’s Leadership Award! His primary roles have been in the following organizations: Krispy Kreme Challenge, Minority Association of Pre-Health Students, National Society of Black Engineers, and Black Campus Ministry under InterVarsity.
But that’s not all! Jalen has also served in smaller leadership roles with the Park Scholars as Freshman Retreat Facilitator, Class Liaison, and Peer Mentor. He has volunteered with Service Raleigh and in other countries through the Guatemala Medical Brigades and the NC State Alternative Service Break trip to Rwanda.
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Photos from the Medical Brigade to Guatemala. Left: teaching kids about the importance of dental hygiene. Right: Group photo with other students on the trip.
Krispy Kreme Challenge
Jalen has served on the Krispy Kreme Challenge Public Relations team and as Public Relations Department Head, Race Director, and is now a member of the Board of Directors. He has experience in social media awareness and engagement, outreach, content creation, mentorship, and website development. In his current role he supports long-term planning and collaboration with UNC Children’s Hospital to ensure the race’s sustainability.
Race directors presenting the 2024 Krispy Kreme Challenge donation with Chancellor Woodson.
Minority Association of Pre-Health Students (MAPS)
Through MAPS, Jalen has coordinated several general body meetings with presentations from pre-health professional schools like Avalon University, the University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Sherman College of Chiropractic, and Howard University’s College of Pharmacy. He worked to expand the chapter’s career development opportunities including sessions with the Black Health Lab, MedServe Fellowship Program, and NC State’s Career Development Center. This hard work and dedication led to the chapter earning official national recognition from the Student National Medical Association beginning in the 2025-26 academic year.
National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE)
As Vice President of NSBE, Jalen worked to collect membership trends and implement initiatives to increase membership retention. Under his leadership as the Academic Excellence Chair, study halls and other related organized academic events were organized. Jalen also provided assistance for the Winter and Spring Galas and Boys and Girls Club events.
NSBE Chapter at the 2024 Region 2 Fall Regional Conference in Philadelphia.
Black Campus Ministries (BCM)
While serving as Discipleship Group Coordinator for BCM, Jalen was responsible for creating small group environments for students to explore faith, leadership, and personal growth. His role allowed him to blend mentorship, cultural affirmation, and inclusive faith-based leadership to ensure that BCM remained a space where everyone felt seen, supported, and uplifted.
“My time at NC State pushed me to grow in ways I never expected…I’ve been surrounded by people and opportunities that challenged me to step outside of my comfort zone, take on meaningful leadership roles, and show up for others with intentionality.”
What’s Next?
After graduation, Jalen will be working full-time as an engineer for Eli Lilly’s RTP site. He is also interested in potentially exploring a future in medicine, specifically in fields like anesthesiology or pathology. He plans to stay connected to his local community and NC State through volunteer work and mentorship.
“I’m grateful for the mentors, peers, and friends who believed in me and reminded me of the importance of leading with purpose. I also want to thank Dr. Bullard and Dr. Simon for this recognition. Their support and guidance have immense value and I’m honored to be recognized in this way!”
Congratulations again, Jalen — the Park community is proud to cheer you on!
Jalen Lucas exemplifies the kind of thoughtful, driven, and community-oriented leadership the Park Scholarships program strives to cultivate. His journey reflects not only an impressive list of accomplishments but also a genuine commitment to service, learning, and inclusion. As he takes the next step into his professional future, we are excited to see how he continues to lead with integrity and purpose.