Carlene is a trailblazing millennial with over 10 years of unique experiences as a professional and community leader. Carlene is a first generation Cape Verdean American who strongly believes education, financial empowerment and self-advocacy is the key to opening up doors. Carlene graduated from Georgetown University with a BA in Government and received her Masters in Criminology at The George Washington University. Carlene is currently pursing her MBA at Providence College. Carlene is mother to a 2 year old named Reyna, is a lifelong learner, enjoys living a healthy lifestyle both physically and emotionally, and empowering others in the community.
In her current role as Associate Director of the Feinstein Institute for Public Service at Providence College, Carlene cultivates campus-community partnerships. She served on the Central Falls City Council for 4 years. During her time on the Council, Carlene created the annual Central Falls Job Fair in its 7th year, passed the Small Business Growth Act, created a Fellowship Program for City youth and hosted several ownership and financial literacy workshops for the community alongside community organizations.
Over the years, Carlene has used her experiences to incorporate intersectionality, civic engagement, social equity into policy, program development, strategic partnerships and organizational development. She serves on the RIC Upward Bound Board of Directors, the Books Are Wings Board of Directors & is a lifelong member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc, the largest African-American women’s professional organization in the world. During the Pandemic, Carlene opened up her own business called The Greatest You Consulting to help clients maximize their potential and be their greatest self through advocacy, wellness, and empowerment.