Jarmeise McNeal, BA

Jarmeise McNeal was born and raised in Rockford, IL. She is currently a Human Resources Generalist at the Rockford Public Schools in District 205. Jarmeise has proven her interest in leadership by volunteering to assist with revising the AFSCME 3210 renewal contract in 2018. In addition, Jarmeise is walking in her purpose of entrepreneurship with excellence and is the founder of Jascenta Candles. Jascenta Candles are handmade with 100% soy wax to provide a clean environment for her customers. 

On her journey of walking into her purpose, Jarmeise received her certification from the Think Big School of Business, a nonprofit organization for minority businesses. She has also been accepted into the Amazon Accelerator Program for minorities to sell her products on Amazon and is currently enrolled in the Women & Wealth Leadership Program. Jarmeise is a CAPA alumnus from Auburn High School. She received her Bachelor's Degree from Judson University in 2018 and plans to return to school to obtain a Master's Degree in Organizational Leadership. 

Jarmeise is passionate about grooming young women and building leaders. In 2017, she hosted a young women’s group at Kennedy Middle School, where she conducted teen-building exercises. She occasionally volunteers within Rockford Public Schools to speak to students on the importance of interview etiquette and volunteers to read to students during Dr. Seuss week. 

Jarmeise’s mission is to establish a leadership role in the community, where she can inspire minority and young women interested in becoming businesswomen, leaders, and speakers.