JSCC president, athletic director receive prestigious Diamond Awards in Atlanta

JACKSON, Tenn. – Jackson State Community College President Dr. Carol A. Rothstein and Athletic Director Dr. Kevin K. Lynum received awards at the 2026 Diamond Awards in Atlanta, Georgia – one of the nation’s most distinguished recognitions celebrating humanitarian service, transformational leadership, and civic impact.

Presented by The Not Alone Foundation, Inc. and The Academy of the Diamond Awards, the Diamond Awards are internationally regarded as “The Oscars of Civic and Community Service.” The honor recognizes individuals whose leadership reflects exceptional service, purpose, and measurable impact across their professions and communities.

Both Dr. Rothstein and Dr. Lynum were formally recognized during the 20th Anniversary Celebration of The Not Alone Foundation, Inc. and the 10th Milestone Anniversary of The Academy of the Diamond Awards on Saturday, January 3, 2026, at The Buckhead Club in Atlanta, Georgia.

As the 7th President of Jackson State Community College, Dr. Rothstein has created sizeable growth across many sectors of the college, including record-breaking enrollment growth since joining the college in the Fall of 2023. As a first-generation high school and college student from West Virginia, she has held roles at nearly all levels within higher education. Her experience has afforded her unique perspectives and insights during a career that has spanned across West Virginia, Maryland, and Tennessee.

Dr. Rothstein was awarded the Crown Jewel of Transformational Academic Leadership, Workforce Innovation & Student-Centered Excellence, an honor reserved for the nation’s most visionary, impactful, and service-driven leaders in higher education.

In its official proclamation, The Academy of the Diamond Awards cited Dr. Rothstein’s career impacts in higher education that reflect a steadfast commitment to academic innovation, community advancement, equitable access, and the holistic empowerment of students.

“Dr. Rothstein, your leadership embodies the full curation of this crown jewel distinction,” said Mark Dodd, Founder and CEO of The Not Alone Foundation. “You are not only a transformational president—you are a builder of pathways, a champion of workforce relevance, a mentor to faculty and emerging leaders, and a steadfast advocate for students seeking a better life through education.

“This recognition is truly an honor,” said Dr. Rothstein. “I wish I could take credit for all of the great things that have been said, but they pale in comparison to the hard work and dedication of the teams I have had the privilege of serving on and with throughout my career. I’ve had the honor of working with and being mentored by some incredible people, and the impact I’ve been able to make, including receiving this award, is thanks to them.”

Currently serving as Athletic Director at Jackson State Community College, Dr. Lynum has led a period of historic growth and transformation within the Green Jay athletics program. His tenure has been marked by championship success, new sport launches, facility enhancements, record academic achievements, and a deep commitment to holistic student-athlete development. Beyond competitive success, his leadership has emphasized service, access, and community engagement—most notably through large-scale initiatives such as annual toy drives, youth outreach efforts, and institutional partnerships benefiting families across West Tennessee.

Dr. Lynum was awarded the Crown Jewel of Transformational Athletic Administration and Community Leadership, and in the Academy of the Diamond Awards official proclamation, it cited Dr. Lynum’s national impact in athletic administration, student development, and community leadership, highlighting his ability to build championship cultures rooted in care, accountability, and purpose.

“Dr. Lynum’s leadership exemplifies what it means to serve with excellence and compassion,” said Mark Dodd, Founder and CEO of The Not Alone Foundation. “His work reflects a rare blend of strategic vision, moral clarity, and unwavering commitment to developing people—not just programs. He is truly a keeper of the flame.”

“I am deeply humbled and honored by this recognition,” Dr. Lynum said. “This award is not mine alone—it belongs to the student-athletes who trust us with their dreams, the coaches and staff who pour into young people daily, the mentors who shaped my journey, and the communities we are called to serve. Leadership, to me, has always been about responsibility, service, and leaving things better than you found them.”

A United States military veteran, Dr. Lynum credits his service for instilling the values of discipline, teamwork, and servant leadership that continue to guide his work in higher education and athletics.

About The Not Alone Foundation

The Not Alone Foundation, Inc. is an internationally respected humanitarian organization dedicated to supporting individuals with chronic medical conditions—most notably kidney disease—while advancing global human equity. Its companion organization, The Academy of the Diamond Awards, is recognized worldwide for honoring leaders whose work embodies service, intellect, compassion, and transformative impact.

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