CARSON -- As 2019 marks the 50^th anniversary of our first intercollegiate athletic team at Cal State Dominguez Hills, we will be highlighting CSUDH student-athlete alumni who made significant contributions to their teams during their time in Cardinal and Gold. 

These spotlights will showcase the impact that a Cal State Dominguez Hills student-athlete had while competing, as well as the impact he or she currently is making as a professional.

(Click here for "Where Are They Now" archives)

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This spotlight shines on Carmelita Jeter, a 6-time track and field All-American at CSUDH and the fastest woman alive.

Also known as the "Jet," the sprints specialist won three medals during the 2012 Summer Olympics, helping team USA set a world record en route to a gold medal in the 4x100 relay, also adding a silver in the 100 meter dash and a bronze in the 200 meter dash.  Jeter also is the proud possessor of three of the top 10 times ever run in the 100 meter dash.

What have you been up to since setting the bar athletically at CSUDH with your All-Americas, records set and Olympic honors?
Well, I've been up to a lot. :)  In addition to being the first-ever Toro to qualify for the Olympics, in which I was the first woman to win all three medals, I have been doing tons of philanthropy work and motivational speaking.  Currently, I'm now at Division 1 Missouri State University as the sprints and hurdles coach for the track and field program.

How did winning those awards and being recognized as one of the top track and field athletes in the nation at that time help you in your current career as both an Olympian and coach?
Winning my medals, traveling the world and being a positive role model has truly helped my coaching.  I bring so much experience, both good and bad, to the table, and I know how it feels to achieve and fail.

What is your fondest memory as a S/A at CSUDH?
My fondest memory was always sitting on the bench in front of the Student Union.  That is where I met several of my friends and had my best times.

If you had a chance to change one thing in your athletic career, what would it be?
I wouldn't change anything, I was great because of everything I went through.

Aside from athletics, what about CSUDH do you cherish the most?
Besides athletics, I cherish the family atmosphere.

Can you offer any words of wisdom for our current student-athletes?
My words of wisdom are simple:  Do more and don't settle.

What does "Once a Toro, Always a Toro" mean to you?
It means a lot.  That statement has so much pride in it.  I loved being a Toro and, most importantly, I graduated from college. 

When was the last time you were on campus, and when do you plan on visiting us?
After helping CSUDH head coach (Warren) Edmonson coach the track & field team in 2016, I came back to campus just last year.  I will return on May 17 to receive my honorary doctorate from CSUDH, and also give the keynote speech at that night's commencement ceremony.

Anything else you'd like to add?
Many times people get discouraged because they feel like going to a Division 2 school is a setback. I am the fastest woman alive, and an Olympian and World Record Holder.  I am a Toro, and nothing is wrong with going to a Division 2 school.  It's all about the person, and what they want in life.