Leadership Highlight: Jordan Johnson the SGA President of Sam Houston State University

In an effort to highlight the people who are leading colleges and universities across the nation, we at Watch The Yard reached out to Sam Houston State University and did an interview with Jordan Johnson the 2020-2021 Student Government Association president.

The position of SGA president is a highly respected role and there is a special pride that one takes. Johnson, who is majoring in Mass Communications, is originally from Austin, TX.

We interviewed Johnson, and talked to her about her position, goals, future and what it means to hold this type of leadership position in 2021.

Read the full interview below.

What is the biggest thing you’ve learned as an SGA president?

Especially planning events centered around the 2020 election I had to learn how to be a leader to the entire student body no matter their political affiliation. I also learned how to take criticism and apply it to my leadership style. It’s not always easy but it does make me an overall better leader and better person.u8

What made you decide to attend Sam Houston State University for undergrad?

I’ve danced my entire life so when looking for a college to attend my number 1 requirement was they had a great dance team. I was on Orange Pride Dance team for 2 years (2017-2019). My second year on the team we won 2 national championship titles.

How has Sam Houston State University molded you into the person you are today?

I have learned so much at Sam Houston State University. The biggest thing I’m going to take away from my undergraduate experiences are the genuine relationship I made. By being extremely involved on campus I have been able to forge relationships with people I might have never interacted before. Through these relationships I have grown tremendously as a person. I wouldn’t be the person I am today if it weren’t for my experiences at Sam Houston State University.

What specific initiatives have you headed up this year and how do you think they will improve the school and surrounding community?

We are starting a pilot program to offer free female sanitary products in our student center. This has never been done before and we are excited for this new initiative.

We also sponsored numerous voter registration drives in the fall along with voter education programs and a march to the polls event on election day. When elected, I made it my mission to educate the student body on their rights and their influence as young eligible voters.

How is your school currently responding to the coronavirus and what is your SGA administration doing to help students? 

Currently our University is fully open. Students have the options to take fully remote classes if the professors permit. Student Government is doing our best to support students in every way possible. We donated food trays for students forced to quarantine due to being exposed to the virus along with hosting numerous giveaways for students. One of the biggest concerns for students during these times in money, because of this SGA has been having monthly giveaways for students in need.

What does leadership mean to you?

Leadership means guidance to me. To be a great leader you must be a great listener, friend, teacher, public servant and boss. It is a great honor to be trusted to lead the student body and I do it with absolute pride. I am the leader I am today because of the students I serve.

We now live in a digital world, what do you think schools need to do to represent themselves online in 2021?

More than anything schools should be highlighting the stories of actual students. This past year has been tough for us all and college students are really feeling the weight of the pandemic from all sides. By highlighting student’s stories you’re showing us that you actually care.

Why do you think Watch The Yard is important to Black students and college culture?

Watch The Yard is a space where college educated Black folk can connect which is much needed. I especially appreciate the work Watch The Yard does for Black students and college culture because I don’t see it very often at my PWI.

What do you plan on doing after graduation?

I plan on pursuing a masters degree in Strategic Communications and moving to Washington D.C. I want to do digital communications work for a non-profit that is devoted to elevating black voices and the black community.

We at Watch The Yard would like to commend Jordan Johnson for her work as the SGA president of Sam Houston State University.

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