Jahtoya Means

Mrs. Jahtoya Means serves as the Director of the University Transition Opportunities Program (UTOP) at UNC Charlotte, where she is committed to supporting first-year students in their academic and personal journeys. She joined the Office of First Year Transition & Programs in August 2019 as the Office Manager, where she oversaw the Office Ambassador Program and Campus Visit initiatives.

In addition to her leadership role with UTOP, Mrs. Means is an instructor for both the COMM 3050 course and the UCOL 1200–UTOP Learning Community seminar, offered through UNC Charlotte’s University College.

With a rich background in both academic and student affairs, she has contributed to departments such as the Office for Community Services and Student Engagement, the College of Liberal Arts & Sciences, and the Office of Academic Affairs. Her work is grounded in a passion for student success and community engagement.

Mrs. Means is a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Political Science from Virginia Union University and earned both a Master of Arts and an Educational Specialist (Ed.S) degree in Higher Education, Community College, and University Leadership from Appalachian State University.

Driven by a deep commitment to service, Mrs. Means dedicates her time to mentoring young women and advocating for equitable access to higher education for underrepresented students.