Leadership Highlight: Florida A&M University’s Student Government President Loryn May

In an effort to highlight the people who are leading colleges and universities across the nation, we at Watch The Yard reached out to Florida A&M University and did an interview with Loryn May, 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. Loryn May, who is majoring in Mathematics Education, is from Pensacola and is a proud Spring 2024 initiate of Alpha Kappa Alpha.

We interviewed Loryn May 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?

The biggest lesson I’ve learned as SGA President is the importance of servant leadership—putting the needs of students first and leading with intention. It’s not just about making decisions but ensuring that every initiative and policy directly benefits the student body. I’ve also learned the power of collaboration; real change happens when students, administration, and stakeholders come together to work towards a common goal.

What made you decide to attend Florida A&M University for undergrad?

FAMU’s legacy of Black excellence, culture, and commitment to producing leaders is what drew me in. I wanted to be in an environment that nurtured my aspirations while surrounding me with like-minded individuals who are ambitious, resilient, and dedicated to making a difference. FAMU isn’t just a school, it’s a FAMUly, a movement, and a foundtion for success.

How has Florida A&M University molded you into the person you are today?

FAMU has sharpened my confidence, strengthened my leadership skills, and instilled in me a deep sense of responsibility to uplift others. The university has given me opportunities to step outside my comfort zone, advocate for my peers, and use my voice to push for meaningful change. It has also taught me resilience—navigating challenges and learning how to adapt while staying focused on my goals.

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?

So far, my administration has prioritized transparent communication with the student body by hosting regular town halls and increasing student engagement opportunities to ensure that students feel heard and actively involved in campus decision-making. We also successfully secured increased funding for Homecoming, allowing for greater student collaboration and enhanced programming. Additionally, we have worked to strengthen partnerships with other HBCUs, fostering unity and shared resources among institutions that serve and uplift Black students.

Another major initiative we have spearheaded is multiple voter engagement efforts, including our “Strolls to the Polls” event, which combined civic engagement with campus culture by encouraging students to vote while celebrating the power of their voices. Through these efforts, we have worked to increase voter registration, provide resources on upcoming elections, and ensure that students understand the importance of participating in the democratic process.

Currently, we are in the process of reestablishing a grocery shuttle service to provide students with better access to fresh and affordable food, addressing food insecurity concerns on campus. Furthermore, we are working closely with the campus chief of police to tackle campus safety concerns, ensuring that students not only feel safe but also have a direct line of communication with campus security to voice their concerns.

These initiatives are all part of a larger effort to enhance the student experience, promote accessibility, and build a stronger, more connected community at FAMU.

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

My administration is actively working to enhance mental health advocacy and support services for students. One of our key initiatives is the establishment of dedicated mental health departments to ensure that students have access to the resources and advocacy they need.
In the Fall semester, we collaborated with various campus departments to host the Worldwide Mental Health Expo, a comprehensive event aimed at promoting overall well-being. This expo featured art therapy, nutrition education, animal therapy, Zumba classes, mental health workshops, screenings, henna art, and other interactive activities designed to help students manage stress and prioritize self-care.

Our goal is to normalize conversations about mental health, provide tangible support, and create a campus culture that prioritizes student well-being in every aspect of university life.

What does leadership mean to you?

Leadership is about service, vision, and impact. It’s not just about holding a title but about creating opportunities for others, making tough decisions with integrity, and setting an example for those who come after you. A great leader listens more than they speak and understands that success isn’t just individual—it’s about uplifting a community.

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

I believe that schools need to embrace digital storytelling—highlighting student achievements, campus culture, and alumni success in a way that’s engaging and authentic. Social media should be more than just announcements; it should be a platform for connection, inspiration, and student engagement.

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

Watch The Yard is a cultural archive and a platform for representation. It showcases the excellence, traditions, and leadership of Black students, organizations, and HBCUs in a way that mainstream media often overlooks. It not only preserves our history but also inspires the next generation by showing them the impact of Black student leaders across the country.

What do you plan on doing after graduation?

After graduation, I plan to teach middle school math, focusing on being a role model in underserved communities. Education has the power to transform lives, and I want to be a direct influence in shaping young minds, especially in communities that need strong, relatable leaders. My long-term goal is to become a superintendent of a school district, where I can advocate for equitable education policies, improve student outcomes, and create sustainable change within the education system. I believe that by starting in the classroom, I’ll gain the firsthand experience necessary to lead with empathy, insight, and impact at a district-wide level.

We at Watch The Yard would like to commend Loryn May for her work as the SGA president of Florida A&M University.

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