Leadership Highlight: Alcorn State University’s Student Government President Kristian Bryant

In an effort to highlight the people who are leading colleges and universities across the nation, we at Watch The Yard reached out to Alcorn State University and did an interview with Kristian Bryant, the 2024-2025 Student Government Association president.

The position of SGA president is a highly respected role, and there is a special pride in being elected by peers to lead. Kristian Bryant, who is majoring in Political Science, is from Terry, MS and is a proud Spring 2024 initiate of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.

We interviewed Kristian Bryant and talked to her about her position, goals, future, and what it means to hold this type of leadership position in 2024-2025.

Read the full interview below.

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

As SGA president, the most important lesson I’ve learned is resilience. Leadership often involves facing unexpected challenges, whether it’s navigating differing opinions, managing crises, or simply handling the weight of responsibility. Over time, I’ve learned that resilience isn’t just about bouncing back from setbacks, but about staying focused on my goals and pushing forward even when things don’t go as planned. Each obstacle has taught me the value of patience, adaptability, and perseverance. This resilience has also helped me remain calm and composed, ensuring I can guide my team and the student body through difficult situations with confidence and clarity.

Being in this role has also deepened my understanding of what it truly means to serve others. Leadership is not about authority but about advocating for others, bridging gaps, and fostering a supportive, inclusive environment. I’ve seen firsthand how important it is to listen to the diverse perspectives of different age groups on campus and work toward creating solutions that benefit everyone. Whether it’s through planning events, addressing concerns, or creating platforms for dialogue, I’ve learned that effective leadership is rooted in empathy, collaboration, and a genuine desire to improve the collective experience of my peers. Ultimately, it’s about being a voice for others and making sure every student feels valued and heard.

What made you decide to attend Alcorn State University for undergrad?

Alcorn State University has always provided me a sense of home and family. I take pride in attending the 1st Black Land Grant Institute. The culture of Alcorn is rooted in family and community and from my first visit I knew it would be a place I could grow not only professionally but personally.

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

Alcorn State University has molded me into a strong woman who is not afraid to chase after her dreams and goals no matter how hard they may seem to achieve. The molding it has done on me supersedes just academically but also socially and spiritually. I have met so many genuine people of all ages and backgrounds who have nurtured, watered, and aided me blossoming into the woman I am now.

What specific initiatives have you headed up this year (or are planning), and how do you think they will improve the school and surrounding community?

The platform for my administration is A.R.I.S.E meaning achieving, rebuilding, innovating, and succeeding. We are striving to do this on campus through:

Mental Health Awareness on Campus
Organizing workshops and seminars on various mental health topics such as stress management, mindfulness, self-care practices, and coping strategies.

Uplifting Student Engagement
Collaborate with student organizations, academic departments, local businesses, and community groups to co-host events and leverage their resources, networks, and expertise.

Career Readiness
Hosting interactive workshops, panel discussions, and Q&A sessions featuring guest speakers, alumni, and experts on topics relevant to students’ interests and career aspirations. Encourage active participation and networking opportunities.

Campus Safety
Implementing and maintaining robust security measures such as surveillance cameras, access control systems, and well-lit pathways. Increasing the presence of campus security personnel, especially during high-traffic times and at night.

These initiatives are the center of the Dynamic 67th Administration at Alcorn State University.

[Answer edited for clarity]

How is your SGA administration/school currently working on attending to the mental health of students?

My SGA administration is currently working on attending to the mental health of students on campus by hosting monthly mental health events, weekly chapel services, and constantly promoting the on campus resources we have such as the crisis hotline and counseling services.

What does leadership mean to you?

I have faced many challenges while serving in leadership positions, being a leader does not exempt one from problems but rather pushes them to the forefront of them. Experiencing various problems in leadership roles has pushed me and helped me to learn various lessons one being that one can not lead alone and teamwork is essential to accomplishing all tasks. Learning the power of working together and collaborating with others is what true leadership is about to me.

We now live in a digital world, what do you think schools need to do to represent themselves online in 2025?

With the digital world evolving schools should represent themselves by showcasing our authentic experiences we are having on campus, uplifting our student voices, and highlighting our talents. While also educating others about what HBCUs are all about as well as a tool to advocate for our rights.

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

Watch The Yard is a pivotal part of Black students and college culture because it gives acknowledgement to us and our wonderful culture and celebrates it. It also provides insight to the youth on what college life as an African American is truly about. Often times our community does not have the perfect platforms to promote and represent ourselves and I feel as though this platform is the perfect representation we need.

What do you plan on doing after graduation?

It has always been my dream to make a meaningful impact on the small community I come from in Mississippi and I plan to do so by attending law school and joining the 2% of black women in law after graduating from Alcorn State University.

We at Watch The Yard would like to commend Kristian Bryant for her work as the SGA President of Alcorn State University.

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Photo credit for this article: @kodakhris @sh0ts_by.sam