Jennifer Carroll was an excellent and motivating speaker, able to adapt to meet the theme of our event. She received excellent ratings on EVERY post-event survey with several comments: "Jennifer has really inspired me!" "I have found my inner power thanks to Jennifer Carroll," "She hit the nail on the head," and "Jennifer really opened my eyes."

We couldn't have asked for a better keynote speaker. She was able to engage the entire audience, drawing them in and making them want more! Thank you Jennifer for helping make our Annual Event a huge success!

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A Testimonial by George R. Jackow Sr.

Where do I Begin? Well, as I recall I first encountered a vivacious, well-educated Florida legislative stateswoman identified as Jennifer Carroll at the Southern Leadership Conference in Miami, 2005! This fascinating individual was one of the guest speakers at the event. Her presentation was straight forward, filled with enthusiasm, articulated in such a manner that it stirred the emotion and stimulated the interest of those present at this political gathering. The positive outward impression and disposition of this outstanding speaker appeared to be contagious among the focused listeners. She literally held the crowd spellbound with her cogent remarks. Her uplifting spirituality, expertise, credentials and persona illuminated the stage sparking vigorous applause from the audience. Jennifer more than capably demonstrated her communication skills, her friendly down home personality and astute mental acumen. Upon concluding her performance, I was one of the fortunate onlookers introducing myself to her, complimenting what she stated in the way that moved the crowd. From this moment forward I engaged in a number of activities, meetings, events and projects whereby I had the distinct privilege of working with Jennifer Carroll in the political arena.

As time progressed I was able to notice and discern the positive attributes personified by Jennifer Carroll, namely, a warm, caring, down to earth person, respectful and knowledgeable in all human endeavors.

I followed her career as a legislator in the Florida State House of Representatives where she sponsored beneficial legislation encompassing a wide variety of issues and concerns, i.e., protecting members of Neighborhood Crime Watch from harassment; specialty license plate "Live the Dream", in honor of Martin Luther King, Jr. Proceeds went directly to a number of worthy organizations. Jennifer also procured needed funds for the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts. There is much more that could be said about her legacy to mankind, but I will stop here.

After serving in many capacities-Director of Florida Department of Veteran Affairs, Chairperson for Florida's Council on Homelessness, twenty year career in the United States Navy, appointment to President Bush's White House Presidential Scholar Commission and finally as Florida's Lieutenant Governor. The list of accomplishments, awards, recognitions and leadership positions are a tribute to a wonderful human being that makes a tremendous and significant difference in the lives of citizens and people from all walks of life.

When Jennifer Carroll was chosen to run for Lieutenant Governor I enlisted her to be the keynote speaker at the Republican Party of Osceola County Lincoln Day Dinner. Kudos and accolades emanated from the attendees regarding her eloquent speech and ability to speak from the heart.

It is my point of view that Jennifer Carroll has always been responsive to the needs of Floridians. Whenever a strong unequivocal voice was needed, she had the fortitude, backbone and gumption to stand for what was right, good, principled, honest and truthful. The application of the old cliché is appropriate when defining Jennifer Carroll---She talks the talk and walks the walk with dignity, kindness and respect. From a personal and professional standpoint I call Jennifer Carroll a gracious lady, humble human being, and a worthy friend who has garnered my respect and gratitude. It is indeed an honor to know her and retain/sustain her friendship and trust throughout the years. May God continue to bless her as a uniquely competent, dedicated being and a person of strong belief and faith!

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Jennifer and I met in 2010 when she was running for Lt. Gov. and I was making my first run for political office, Duval County Soil and Water Conservation District. Over the course of the past few years, I have grown to admire Jennifer's boldness, courage and perseverance. During my time as an elected official, she was always a call or text away to help me navigate the waters.  No matter the issue or question I would bring to her, she always amazed me with a well-thought out, sensible response. She has helped me grow personally and professionally because she always challenges my thinking and reasoning. She is forward-thinking, wise and selfless.  

Watching Jennifer has taught me to be comfortable in my own skin especially in politics, give back to those who are coming along behind you, and never give up on your life's mission. I'm blessed to have Jennifer as a friend and mentor.

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From her outstanding career in the Navy and dedicated public service as a member of the Florida Legislature and as Lt. Governor of the State of Florida, Jennifer Carroll’s life can be characterized as representing selfless commitment and dedication the principles and causes she believes in. Whether it be assuring that Florida’s space industry remains vibrant, bringing more jobs to Florida, increasing business and employment opportunities for women and minorities, fighting for diversity and broadening the base of the Republican Party, or creating scholarship and educational opportunities for Black students, Jennifer Carroll has been there, done that, and will undoubtedly do even more. She served this nation with distinction for 20 years, battled the good old boy network in politics and government and often was the only Black paving the way. A few of her accomplishments in that regard:

Worked for continued funding of historically Black colleges and universities (HBCU’s); Securing funding for the Black Business Investment Corporation (BBIC’s)to increase the state’s Black business pool; and, Utilized her influence to prevent vetoes for FAMU’s pharmacy in Crescent City and other programs impacting Black Floridians.

As Chair of Space Florida she aggressively pursued opportunities to secure and grow a wide variety of space and aerospace-related ventures in Florida. In the international area, she headed trade missions to South Africa and Trinidad with the objective to promote better trade relations and bring more jobs to Florida.

Her military background became an asset as she coordinated military affairs and defense issues for the state. She worked closely with Congress and the Pentagon to ensure that Florida received its fair share of funds and programs; establishing close working relationships with military officials to assure that Florida's installations were on the forefront at the Pentagon. A main goal and priority was to ensure that Florida was in a position to gain more missions and personnel.

In all of the above and countless other accomplishments too numerous to list, Jennifer Carroll has been and continues to be an outstanding American and individual and is a credit to her family, state, country and whatever venture or position she assumes.

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Jennifer is a woman of great intelligence, civic mindedness, moral standing and all around outstanding human being. Having known Jennifer for many years, I remember, as Chairman of the Republican Party of Clay County getting a call from a soon to be retiring Naval Officer asking how she could get involved in the party. WELL, involved is an understatement! She soon became a leading force in the party's political machine and has proven to be the greatest asset Clay County could have.

Jennifer has represented Clay County as a legislator and then served as Lieutenant Governor of Florida. Jennifer has a nonsensical outlook on life and has raised three outstanding children, who have all gone on to be responsible citizens as an example of their parent's values and guidance. As a speaker, Jennifer is very compelling and credible. She gives a facts-are-facts logical types of speeches and leaves her audience both thoughtful and contemplating her powerful messages. Personally, I have called upon Jennifer many times to assist in different functions (i.e. speaking, helping set-up, contacting certain people, interviewing students or even giving positive messages to the youths), and she has always, without hesitation, agreed to assist in any manner she could. There are so many positive things I could personally attest to about Jennifer, but I chose to make this short, as it could run for pages, but in essence the one thing anyone can do is meet Jennifer just ONE time and it will be obvious the type of motivated and caring person she is.

My wife and I count Jennifer as one of our great friends and know that she would stand up for us in any circumstance, as we would for her.

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What Dr. J. B. Williams have to say about Jennifer S. Carroll

Character

I have known you now for almost a decade. One thing that has been consistent in my hearing about and discussing you over that time from supporters as well as those who were not necessarily fans, your word was golden. In my working with you for that same period, you have always been by the letter of the law. You always did your due diligence to the best of your ability and knowledge before you offered your support to anything. I watched your kids as to the kind of people they are and how they responded to you. I found you to be held in high esteem by them. As small kids that may not mean much because most think their parents are super heroes. But when they are adults, it is a different story, as their praise is based solely on merit. I told my wife on several occasions that you were a throw back public servant, meaning that you were truly a civil servant in it for the cause and not the cash. I never saw anything but that. My youngest son was with me on one occasion I had a meeting with you and he commented that your personal cell phone was an old phone, when you had the wherewithal and the position to have warranted the latest smart phone. As a young adult, it impressed him and spoke volumes to your motive for being a public servant. During that same meeting you told those of us who attended the meeting that when you were asked by Gov. Scott to be his running mate, you told him that you had not voted for him. I do not know many in that position who would have been that honest.  

Community Leadership

In my experience with you, your community was the entire state of Florida as I often said to you. Everything in which I knew you were involved, it benefited all the citizens of the state. Even to the extent of making a case for your community in Washington. Even when you were a Legislator, you led the charge for the "state" and not just your district.  

Political Career

Again, I speak from an almost decade view from a fairly close vantage point. Your being a Republican Legislator spoke volumes as to what I believe to be a very forward thinker. It further demonstrated that you were an individualist who followed your beliefs based on merit, as a person of color. The FBBIB/BBIC program had never had a true ally at any level until you came along. Again, from my own personal experience, you supported this program because you saw it as a necessary endeavor to enhance economic development statewide. That support only materialized after you had an opportunity through audit to see that the operators of this program were credible. This program had been around since 1985 and had only been funded at the tune of $9MM up to the time you became involved in 2006/2007. Starting in 2008/2009 until this current fiscal year 2013/14, you were responsible for convincing both the legislature and the Governor's Office with two audits and successes in hand that the program was worthy of a higher level of funding. Your efforts resulted in approximately $17MM. Almost double the amount that had been appropriated in the 20 years prior. This program has made more than $70MM available in capital funding, which is almost a three to one leverage ratio of those appropriated dollars.  

I never knew that you were the Executive Director of Veteran Affairs until the day of your inauguration as Lt. Governor. My wife and I were standing on the Capitol lawn behind two Caucasian men who were involved in an in depth conversation about you in that position and you as a naval officer. We listened very intently and all we heard from them was praise.

I often think about my asking you what your plans were when your legislative term was completed and your reply was, "you were not sure and that you were going to sit on your porch was a viable consideration." Then within weeks you were on a political ticket to be the next Lt. Governor of Florida. I do not think there is anyone in the state who will deny that the victory was not possible without you on the ticket. You were the first "working" Lt. Gov in Florida. Most people never knew who held that office nor their day to day role. But I recall you saying that you told Gov. Scott that you were not coming to the table unless you were allowed to work and not be a figure head or window dressing. Your performance actually changed the way people looked at the Lt. Governor's role in every state. In this office you continued your aggressive push to enhance economic development and job creation throughout the state and played a significant role with the current improved economic picture in Florida. In all, you graced the office.

As to what assistance you personally provided to myself or anyone I know, the reply is simple. You gave me and many others who care about this state hope through your professionalism and honesty at a time when most did not think much of politicians. You gave many of us reason to continue pushing when there was no tangible reason. I never saw you as a politician but "civil servant" who wanted better for the people of this state. As I mentioned to you recently, as long as you are engaged and involved it is making a positive difference for someone or something somewhere.

This endorsement was not difficult to write. It is just a compiling of things I have said to you over the years and thoughts I have shared with my wife and others about you

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Barney E. Spann
Technology Consultant

I met Jennifer Carroll in 1996 during her later years in the Navy and we were both going through a local leadership program. Our families became close and we have remained friends since. Days after we met she stated her intention to retire from the military and seek political office as she felt a need to assist people and she wanted me to run her campaign. Didn't take it seriously at the time, but soon I came to know the character of the person that made that statement. She always does what she says she's going to do.

During the time that we were campaigning, many times it was part of my role to get her out of long personal discussions with many of the constituents who wanted to speak to her about their situations. She always made sure there was appropriate follow up with the person that she was speaking with because she cared personally about their situation. Even though not in office yet she was still seeking to help the individual due to her caring spirit. Many times I would get a late night call about the person I thought she had forgotten seeking follow up so they could be provided assistance. Her caring spirit is what has guided her throughout her life and career.

During her years as a House Representative and Department of Veteran Affairs head, there are countless times when she has taken the time to aid not only her constituents, but anyone no matter the district or political affiliation. From assisting personally with technical help with Veterans living situations to bringing forth legislation to sponsor funding for sickle cell through personalized license plating, Jennifer always had her hand in it to ensure that people were properly taken care of.

Jennifer is truly a smart and gifted lady that cares about people. She always has and I thank God that we crossed paths and have remained friends throughout. I am certain that her next endeavor will be people centered as well.......YOU GO GIRL!!

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I've known Jennifer Carroll for some 20 years, since she joined Rotary while still serving as a US Naval officer. In all that time – some several decades, now – she has constantly impressed me as a person not only of high moral character and selfless community involvement, but as an inspiring leader whom I have and would willingly follow. Jennifer's work ethics can only be described as laser-focused, and tireless. I consider myself an extremely productive person, but admit to constant astonishment when I see energy and hours she devotes to her many duties – all of them geared, in my experience, toward community betterment and public service. Not only does Jennifer put out the effort – she gets it done, and the results are extraordinary.

Jennifer is one of the most honorable people I know, and I am proud to know her. She has been utterly faithful in fulfilling her commitments, and I know no one whose word I'd value more. Jennifer is a beacon of good and light to us all, and I am grateful for her continuing friendship, and her leadership.

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"It was an honor and a privilege to join Jennifer's leadership team at the Florida Department of Veterans' Affairs (FDVA), following her appointment by Governor Jeb Bush to serve as the agency's Executive Director.

From personal experience I've witnessed her work ethics and commitment to personally helping veterans. When the state did not want to commit funds to erect a monument to honor Florida's WWII veterans, Jennifer single handedly went around the state asking for donations for the project, she also personally made phone calls and sent out donation letters. She encouraged veteran's organizations to purchase WWII commemorative pins and ask for their members to donate. To reduce the cost to construct the monument, she requested and obtained permission from the WWII Memorial architecture and stone quarry to use the same design and stone on a scaled down model of the National WWII monument. Jennifer's mission was for Florida to properly recognize and the greatest generation and to have a place where Floridians and WWII veterans who were unable to the travel to Washington D.C. to have a replica WWII memorial in their state. Jennifer was also very active and engaged with the federal VA always seeking ways to get the VA to better service disabled Florida Veterans. This relationship and advocacy proved very beneficial to Florida veterans receiving millions in retroactive benefits compensation.

As a very outspoken and strong advocate for veterans, she lobbied the Florida Legislature for construction funds for two additional State Veterans' Nursing Homes in Bay and Charlotte Counties which allowed the state to draw down federal matching grant moneys that resulted in $15 million of federal funds for these projects. Additionally, Jennifer's tenacity in challenging the VA's ruling and getting the decision overturned was instrumental in Jacksonville, Florida being the recipient of the newest veteran's cemetery.

During her tenure at FDVA, Jennifer served as the chair of the Florida Council on Homelessness, where she sought ways to provide enhanced services toward solving homelessness in the state and particularly within the veteran community.

Following her service at FDVA, President George W. Bush appointed Jennifer to the Veterans' Disability Benefits Commission where she served admirably and represented the voice of millions of female veterans and veteran's families. The commission made recommendations to the congress where some have already been implements to improve the lives of many veterans and their families. Jennifer's work on behalf of veterans is greatly appreciated and will never be forgotten.

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I have known Jennifer Carroll for over 24 years now. She is a very thoughtful and kind person. I first met her while we were both serving in the United States Navy. She was a very fine naval officer. I will always remember how she always thought of others; for instance while we were deployed to Spain a few of us in the Navy patrol squadron stayed behind in Spain while the rest of the squadron returned home. It was Christmas time we were away from our families for the holidays and then Lt Commander Jennifer Carroll was our Officer in Charge & while she was able to keep everything running smoothly she also found the time to have a surprise Christmas party for us, she planed and set up the whole thing and it helped with our morale while we were away from our families.

Also when she was the Executive Director of Florida Department of Veterans Affairs, when she found out that my wife was very ill due to a service connected disability and was not receiving any help from the VA for her condition and was getting worse by the day Jennifer was able to intervene and help my wife get the care she needed. I know that if Jennifer did not step in and help, my wife might not be alive today. That is how Jennifer is, if she can help someone she will. She is very personable and selfless and she puts others before herself.

When Jennifer was elected as a state representative she never lost sight of why she was elected. She never let the title or the job go to her head like numerous people do, she was Jennifer Carroll in a position who helped make the state of Florida & the lives of people in the state of Florida better, and to help wherever she could. I always kept in touch with Jennifer and we would talk about our families and how they were doing. When Jennifer was elected Florida LT Governor she was the same Jennifer who always looked out for others doing what she was elected to do and never wavered.

Throughout the years of knowing Jennifer I can sum it all up really quickly, she is a great friend whom my family and I think of her and her family as our family. She is a very compassionate, loving and selfless person who holds her Christian values dear to her heart and is a very loyal friend, coworker, public servant, person and we think the world of her.

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"I have had the great pleasure of knowing Jennifer Carroll for more than 22 years. I first met Jennifer when I served as Commanding Officer of Naval Air Station Jacksonville (1989-1991) and she was serving as an aircraft maintenance officer. I returned to the base in 1995 as a Rear Admiral, in command of Navy Region Southeast, and continued to be impressed by Jennifer's enthusiastic and energetic approach to her every undertaking as well as her exceptional competence and impeccable moral character.

In fact, I was so impressed that I selected her to be my personal aide. Jennifer very capably performed a myriad of important tasks and represented me at numerous on base military meetings as well as at Board of Directors meetings in the Jacksonville community whenever it was not possible for me to attend. She performed exceptionally well across the board and made a most positive impression on everyone with whom she had contact. Her comments always added value to conversations and she possessed maturity and presence well beyond her years. She is the epitome of honor, strong commitment to her values and moral courage.

After her retirement from the Navy, after 20 years of honorable service, she elected to remain in Northeast Florida and to continue giving back to our community through uniformly exceptional public service. "

As Director of the Florida Department of Military Affairs, Jennifer served with great distinction and assisted countless veterans, military members and all of their families in a highly conscientious effort to make Florida the most military friendly state in our nation. She truly made a positive difference in the lives of many people.

As a state legislator, Jennifer continued to serve our community and state with distinction. She was instrumental in passage of several significant legislative initiatives. Frequently sought out as a guest speaker for events in our community, Jennifer consistently proved herself to be an excellent speaker with full grasp of a wide range of important community issues, many of which had a significant impact on veterans, members of our armed services and all of their families.

As Lieutenant Governor, Jennifer was determined to play an active role in cultivating positive improvement in our state across a wide swath of initiatives including Space Florida where she served as a driving force for development of this critical element of our state's economy. I also witnessed her hands on leadership and grasp of complex issues when we both served as members of the Florida Defense Support Task Force. Her leadership and knowledge in this critical element of Florida's economy truly made a very positive difference to the citizens of Florida.

Jennifer personifies the "American Dream". Immigrating to the United States from her native Trinidad as a young girl, she is the product of New York public schools. After graduation from high school, Jennifer wanted to give back to her adopted country and volunteered to enlist in the United States Navy as an aircraft mechanic. After continually impressing her superiors with her potential and with superior performance, she was selected to attend college in New Mexico. After her graduation from college, Jennifer received her commission as an officer in the Navy and steadily advanced in rank to Lieutenant Commander. She is a great credit to the United States Navy and to all of our military men and women.

On a personal note, for more than two decades, I have had the great pleasure of calling Jennifer a true friend. She is a wonderful mother and dedicated wife who exemplifies the strongest possible moral character. Her deep faith, honesty, character and commitment are all above reproach.

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"I've known Jennifer Carroll professionally since we were stationed together in 1989. We were assigned to the Maintenance Department of a P-3 Orion squadron home ported in Jacksonville, Florida. We provided support for nine aircraft and routinely deployed to Bermuda, Iceland, Lajes Field in the Azores, and Rota Spain. Operational tempo was normally high and Jennifer always kept a professional attitude even during the stressful times when aircraft maintenance occasionally fell behind schedule. She always showed great resourcefulness in rearranging department workloads to help the maintenance department get back on track so aircraft could fly the required missions.

We were again assigned together while assigned to the Naval Air Station Jacksonville, Florida. During that period Jennifer was assigned as the Quality Assurance Officer at the Aircraft Intermediate Maintenance Department while I was assigned as the Command Master Chief of the Naval Air Station. I always made it a point to talk with both the senior and junior enlisted Sailors during my tours of the command spaces. Every Sailor assigned to work for and with Jennifer commented that she was a firm and fair Naval Officer and they would be proud to serve with her at any command. Each of them felt that Jennifer was genuinely concerned for their professional and personal welfare. To be held in such high regard by her Sailors makes a great statement about Jennifer's integrity and great character."

Since retiring from the Navy Jennifer and I have crossed paths socially from time to time. I've followed her busy career as a Florida State Representative and as the Florida Lieutenant Governor. I can say that she has continued to impress me with her professional demeanor and is always willing to help someone in need regardless of her hectic schedule.

Occasionally a few fellow retired Sailors get together for lunch in the area to catch up with each other's lives. Jennifer brings a welcome smile to those meetings and always shows that the core values of the Navy. Honor, Courage, and Commitment are still very much with her in her everyday life.

I would be proud to be a part of any endeavor Jennifer is also a part of.

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"I first met Lt. Governor Jennifer Carroll in 2010 while serving as the Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Installations, Environment, Energy, and Logistics. With six major Air Force bases located in the State of Florida, both Lt. Governor Carroll and Governor Scott made supporting our military a top priority - - and Jennifer had been assigned the primary role as military liaison for the State of Florida. This was a perfect "fit" since Jennifer had served over 20 years in the US Navy (in both the enlisted ranks and as an officer), was well acquainted with the Department of Defense and appreciated the personal sacrifices our military members and their families make every day they put on the uniform! Moreover, her experiences in state politics and her "can do" personality provided a unique expertise to get things done. "

Between 2010 and 2013, governor Carroll and I worked a diverse agenda of issues: the beddown of F-22s into Tyndall AFB, the expansion of the ship canal at Cape Canaveral, the improved off-ramp for Eglin AFB, the accelerated cleanup of contaminated sites at Tyndall AFB, launching electric vehicles and renewable energy projects at Hurlburt AFB, the expansion and compatible use of air space in southern Florida and integrated use of air space on the Florida panhandle. Every one of these tasks were successfully underway or completed by 2013 due to Jennifer's personal leadership, persistence, diplomacy, and dedication to find a "win/win" for both the military and all residents of Florida.

It's difficult to gauge the full impact Lt. Governor Carroll's achievements have had and will have, but what she did will arguably result in thousands of new jobs for Floridians and open up new and innovative opportunities and markets in areas such as transportation and renewable energy development across the state. Her leadership and undying support of our military has not only improved the quality of life of our military families, but created a very open and enviable relationship with commanders and senior leaders in the Pentagon that will solve problems and directly enhance our national defense.

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"I remember the Honorable Jennifer Carroll as a young Naval Officer and our first work together with the Clay County Chamber of Commerce. I went on to be the Chamber President and she went on to be the Lieutenant Governor of the State of Florida. I knew then that Ms. Carroll was someone special and someone I have continued to work with over close to 20 years.

Her passion for the families of our county and my home has been visible throughout her career in the Navy, the legislature and the Governor's office. I have had the chance to watch and work personally with Ms. Carroll along with Worksource Florida as she and the Governor help put into place programs to help those that lost their jobs in our county during the last recession and bring about job creation at a rate much greater than that of the nation.

Whether we needed someone to help with making a call to businesses to encourage them to come to our area or champion the expansion of Junior Achievement, Ms. Carroll always seemed to find the time to personally get involved.

I and the organizations I have been involved with have always found Ms. Carroll to be objective, supportive and honest in every instance. I would consider it an honor to address Ms. Carroll's character, work ethic or faith in our community and state but most importantly the faith she has shown in each of us as partners. "

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"I have known Jennifer Carroll since 1996 when we worked together to get out the vote for the upcoming election that November. Jennifer always brings energy, enthusiasm and excitement to any project she works on. No one works harder than she does. We always called her "the Energizer Bunny" because she could go nearly 24 hours and always be as fresh and enthusiastic at the end of the day as she was at the beginning.

Jennifer abounds in solid good sense. She is grounded. She is a careful manager of money, both her own and that of any organization she works with. She is conservative in her personal life, raising her fine family, and in her political viewpoint.

I have always had the utmost confidence in Jennifer. She is a person of solid character. She has always commanded my trust and respect."

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"Jennifer Carroll is one of the most AMAZING women I know. She is very caring, honest and of very high integrity. I met Representative Carroll while she was serving as a Florida State Representative she who immediately embraced my goals to achieve higher heights in the business world. Her friendship and mentorship opened doors that enabled me to improve my small business. As Lieutenant Governor she never lost her roots, she often sought ways to help people advance. She was very inclusive of the entire State and helped increased opportunities for minorities. During a trade mission trip to South Africa, Lieutenant Governor Carroll gave a speech that was so inspiring. She opened her heart and life to us all and it was so inspirational and it motivated many business women and aspiring business women in attendance. I am very thankful for all she has done to help so many and some may never realize the impact of her work. Thank you for all you have done on behalf of others, God Bless YOU!!!!"

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JENNIFER CARROLL: ANATOMY OF A HERO - I have been blessed to meet a lot of important people in the 7 decades of my life, but there are not many like Jennifer Carroll. She has blazed the trail for so many as she pushed the "glass ceiling" way beyond its boundaries.

But when one becomes the "first" in anything, they know what "no pain, no gain" really means. As she moved on up to the Florida Legislature and then to the Florida Governor's office, becoming the first Black Republican, the first Black female and the first Black military and business woman to overcome the racism, sexism and jealousy within the African American and the Anglo communities, Miss Jennifer left a whole lot of blood, sweat and tears on the floor.

But she handled it like a "true blue" lady. Her knowledge of the law, politics and business and the discipline and structure of the military made her one of the best I've seen – black, white, red, yellow or green. And as people tried to tear at her heart, they didn't understand that her integrity is beyond reproach.

She is a hero by any measure and any business, organization, corporation or governmental entity that enjoys the pleasure of having her as part of their family in any capacity will be blessed as well. God has truly given us one of his Angels in the form of Jennifer Carroll.

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I first had the opportunity to meet Jennifer Carroll 14 years ago during her race for Congress. I was as gitty as a school girl the day I actually got to shake her hand. Jennifer was the validation of who I was as a Black, Republican female. She espoused and unapologetically articulated my beliefs and the beliefs of millions of other blacks who are afraid to stand proudly in their conservative beliefs for fear of repercussions. For me Jennifer was the full embodiment of the American Dream, and her story and her life became an inspiration to me.

Getting to know Jennifer Carroll personally is truly one of the many blessings of my life. I am amazed at the ease with which Jennifer can fulfill a variety of tasks. How she manages to get thirty hours out of a twenty-four hour day is truly amazing. I know her to be extremely organized, efficient, competent, and has an excellent rapport with people of all ages, races and beliefs. Her communication skills, both written and verbal, are excellent. No one can stir up the base and inspire a group of people like Jennifer. When she speaks you go from laughing, to crying, to standing on your chair, to picking up your weaponry ready to take the hill.

Jennifer's abilities, character and integrity are second to none. I have seen her on stage making speeches before thousands with presidential candidates, and other high level officials, and also at a small community luncheon with just a few likeminded conservatives. What I love and respect most about Jennifer is no matter where you see her, she has time to stop and say hello, give a hug or lend an ear to anyone who stops her. I have actually watched her poor husband take 20-30 minutes trying to get from the register to the front door of a local store because Jennifer will stop and speak to everyone. I truly appreciate that in her and her poor Nolan too.

I am a proud, live out loud unapologetic Black republican female, and without her ever knowing it Jennifer has been the "Wind Beneath My Wings."

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"Jennifer Carroll is one of the most brilliant public speakers I've had the privilege of listening to. She communicates timely information in a way that is realistic and easy to understand as well as inspirational. As a professional communication consultant who trains public officials on how to speak and present messages, I've gained much wisdom from Jennifer through the years.

As an adviser to her, I've had a unique vantage point to watch Jennifer's stellar career unfold beginning at her retirement as a U.S. Navy Lieutenant Commander. During her appointment by Gov. Jeb Bush as the Executive Director of the state Veterans Affairs Department to her election to the Florida State House of Representatives, I've seen Jennifer innovate the way our government does business.

Because of her public talents, and reputation for streamlining the inner-workings of government, she was elected statewide to Florida's Lieutenant Governor. She carries on that legacy now into the private sector, where I know she will bring success to her affiliates in the corporate global marketplace. "

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"I am proud to call Jennifer Carroll my friend and daughter. I met Jennifer and her wonderful husband Nolan twenty seven years ago. We got to know each other as neighbors and she and Nolan became our extended family. We watched her children from the first to the third. She entrusted us to be caregivers to her three children when she and her husband deployed for short periods of time. I watched her parent her children with love, affection, and pride. She nurtured them from infancy to young adults and throughout becoming educated professionals. She is extremely professional and dedicated not only to family, but whatever task given to her. She is a community organizer and a good Christian to her Lord. She went from being an enlisted person in the United States Navy to Officer, to working with the Veterans, and to becoming Lt. Governor of the great State of Florida. Whatever tasks given to her she does with great pride and fortitude. When I was sick, she not only came to see me, brought me food, but call when she was unable to visit. She never lets a holiday go by without calling or come to visit us when she can. She was instrumental in having a Veterans Cemetery erected in Jacksonville, Florida, and has done so many other things in the community too many to name. She is the type of person if asked to assist with any kind of help she'll do her best to get it done. While being on active duty in the United States Navy, she also took excellent care of her aging/ailing mother until her death. Jennifer is one in a million, a true and dedicated friend and person, a wonderful wife and mother, a true friend, and a child of God. "

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"I met Jennifer Carroll some years ago, when she had recently retired from the Navy. She was purchasing a business and was applying for the Duval County Occupational License. I was a Deputy License Inspector at the time and assisted her with her task. I was so impressed with her kind heart and integrity that we became acquaintances and later friends.

As I became more involved with politics, after retiring, our paths seem to cross more and more. We seemed to be working toward the same goals for American and Florida. As Lt. Governor, Jennifer was very instrumental in acquiring jobs for the State of Florida at our time of need. She was an outstanding Lt. Governor and I know she will be a huge success in whatever she does.

Jennifer spoke several times for The Republican Women's Club of Duval Federated and at several Tallahassee events that we attended. She is one of the most dynamic speakers and hardest working ladies that it has ever been my pleasure to know. She can motivate a room in a second.

I am proud to call Jennifer Carroll friend.

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"I was involved with then Florida Representative Jennifer Carroll for 3 years trying to reform the state's cosmetology statutes. The objective was to provide better protection for the citizens and also improved options for the cosmetology community. Jennifer was a tireless advocate for the 3+ years. She brought together cosmetology school owners, cosmetologists, salon owners, other legislators, lobbyists, as well as the public. Through her leadership, the coalition gained tremendous strength and momentum. We successfully got the legislation to the Governor's desk 2 years in a row. Unfortunately, Governor Crist vetoed the bill both times. I marvel at her dedication, persistence and principled ability to navigate the political waters. I will forever have a tremendous amount of respect for Jennifer and am honored to be associated with her."

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To whom it may concern:

Jennifer Carroll is an amazing leader. She has the ability to motivate and inspire the best out of those around her. As a State Representative Jennifer held herself to the highest of personal integrity and professionalism in all situations. Jennifer was an amazing advocate for her constituency, with a personal connection that was unmatched by her counterparts. She is a tremendous ambassador not only for the Republican Party but for women in politics and business leaders.

As Lieutenant Governor, Jennifer consistently displayed her dedication and commitment to seeing the State of Florida improve on a daily basis. She will continue to provide leadership in the future always placing others before herself.

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