News & Events

Enterprising Alumna Jennifer Mayer and Husband Donate $25,000 to UNC Asheville

February 26, 2010

UNC Asheville's Board of Trustees announced today that it has named a Multimedia Arts and Sciences computer lab in honor of Greg and Jennifer Mayer (Class of '04) of Charlotte Street Computers, who recently made a donation of $25,000 to the university. The lab, located on the second floor of Zeis Hall, is marked with a plaque which was unveiled in a ceremony attended by a host of alumni on campus for Homecoming Weekend.

"Charlotte Street computers has not only excelled in their core business of computer repair but has also been a great citizen and steward of the Asheville community," said UNC Asheville Chancellor Anne Ponder. "We are honored that they have extended their philanthropy to Jennifer's alma mater."
UNC Asheville alumna Jennifer Mayer is co-owner of Charlotte Street Computers, as well as founder of the Asheville non-profit organizations E-Cycle Me and Power On Community. Since taking over Charlotte Street Computers, Mayer has won a number of awards, including the Asheville Chamber of Commerce's Business Leader of the Year.

However, this young business leader has a background that differs from many local entrepreneurs. During Mayer's childhood, her mother struggled with addiction, which kept Mayer from attending school regularly and learning to read. By age 14 she quit school and moved out on her own. Four years later, a friend took Mayer into her home and convinced her to finish her education. It was a major turning point for Mayer: she learned to read and earned a General Education Diploma (GED). Mayer went on to attend A-B Technical College and then transferred to UNC Asheville, where she completed a bachelor's degree in psychology.

She said that she hopes her donation to UNC Asheville will inspire others with similar stories. "I always want people to know that I made it out," Mayer said, adding that philanthropy is her way of saying thank you to everyone who helped her along the way.

Mayer notes that she plans to continue her partnership with the university. She is currently working with the Student Government Association to create volunteer and internship opportunities for students in her business and non-profit ventures.