Leadership Highlight: Delaware State University’s Student Government President Jadah Forbes

In an effort to highlight the people who are leading colleges and universities across the nation, we at Watch The Yard reached out to Delaware State University and did an interview with Jadah Forbes, 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. Forbes, who is majoring in Psychology with a minor in biology, is from New Castle, Delaware and is a proud Spring 2023 initiate of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

We interviewed Jadah Forbes 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 thing I’ve learned as SGA president is the power of listening and building strong connections within the community. Leadership isn’t just about making decisions; it’s about understanding the diverse needs of the student body and working collaboratively to find solutions. I’ve learned that real change happens when you bring people together, value their input, and advocate for their needs—whether that’s through organizing events, addressing concerns, or creating new opportunities. It’s also taught me how crucial it is to balance being approachable and proactive, ensuring that students feel heard and supported every step of the way.

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

I decided to attend Delaware State University because of the strong sense of family and the financial support they offered. After visiting and touring other schools, none of them felt as welcoming or personal as DSU did. The university provides countless opportunities for involvement, from internships to research projects, and I knew this environment would not only help me excel academically but also prepare me for success in the future. 

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

The values of DSU—diversity, community, integrity, scholarship, contemporary, and outreach—have been instrumental in shaping who I am today. Coming into college, I was very shy and struggled with speaking up, but Delaware State University has played a huge role in helping me find my voice and realize the impact I can have. Through my involvement on campus, especially in student leadership, I’ve learned that my ideas and actions can make a real difference when I use them for good. DSU’s focus on student success has not only helped me excel academically but also encouraged me to embrace my role in fostering a supportive and inclusive campus community. These core values have guided me to be more confident, proactive, and engaged, empowering me to make a positive impact on the lives of others.

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?

As SGA President, alongside my administration, The Legend Administration, our top priority has always been addressing the needs and enhancing the experiences of the student body. This year, we’ve worked on several initiatives, including advocating for extended library hours and improved dining services to better meet student needs. We’ve also advocated for wellness days and organized stress-relief events to help students manage their academic pressures. To strengthen communication between students and the administration, we’ve introduced custom feedback forms and hosted regular town halls where students can voice their concerns and contribute to decision-making. We’ve worked to enrich campus life by pushing for more sanctioned events that foster social interaction and community engagement. Additionally, we expanded our annual toy drive by organizing a toy distribution event, allowing students to give back to the Dover community. Every initiative we work on reflects the core values of DSU, aiming to improve the overall student experience both on campus and in the surrounding community. 

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

Our SGA administration is committed to supporting the mental health and well-being of students by taking a proactive approach to addressing stress and promoting wellness. We’ve been advocating for wellness days throughout the academic year to give students a chance to recharge and focus on self-care. Additionally, we’ve been organizing de-stress events during high-pressure times like midterms and finals, offering activities that help students relax and manage their anxiety. We also ensure that student organizations under our leadership are hosting events year-round, with a particular focus on the months when seasonal depression can be more challenging. In collaboration with Health and Counseling Services, we’re continuously advocating to improve and expand the mental health resources available to the student body. Through these efforts, we aim to create a more supportive campus environment where students can thrive mentally and emotionally.

What does leadership mean to you?

To me, leadership is about being a servant leader first—putting others’ needs ahead of my own and truly being there for my community. It’s not about titles or recognition, but about inspiring through what you do, not just what you say. A leader should lead with humility, using their influence to help others grow and succeed. It’s about being someone people can trust, showing empathy, and making choices that prioritize the well-being of the whole group. Ultimately, leadership means guiding by example and lifting others up, so they feel empowered to reach their full potential.

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

In 2025, schools need to have an online presence that goes beyond just providing information—it should make students feel connected and part of a community. It’s about creating digital spaces where everyone—students, faculty, and even prospective students—can interact and engage, whether that’s through virtual campus tours, live events, or online forums where people can share ideas and ask questions. Delaware State University has already made strides with the DSU Hub, which is a one-stop shop for students to check schedules, discover campus events, and even connect with peers. Digital platforms should also be inclusive, ensuring they reflect the diversity of the student body and help foster a sense of belonging. Providing virtual resources, workshops, and support services will be essential in helping students navigate both their academic and personal lives. Ultimately, schools need to ensure that, even in the digital world, students feel like they’re part of something bigger and that they have the tools and connections they need to thrive.

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

Watch The Yard is a vital platform for Black students and college culture because it gives space to amplify our voices and celebrate the diverse experiences and achievements within the Black community. It’s not just about showcasing accomplishments—it’s about creating a space where we can share our stories, connect with one another, and take pride in our heritage. Whether it’s highlighting academic success, leadership, or cultural contributions, Watch The Yard allows us to show the world the richness of Black college life and the powerful impact we’re making. It helps build community, inspire future generations, and reminds us all that our voices matter. Through it, we find strength in each other and in our shared journey.

What do you plan on doing after graduation?

After graduating, I plan to pursue a post-baccalaureate program before entering medical school, specifically focusing on neurology and its treatment. Throughout my undergraduate years, I have been actively involved in various leadership positions, where I have worked to create an inclusive environment for all students and advocated for their needs. These leadership experiences have fueled my desire to make a lasting impact in healthcare, particularly for underrepresented and underserved groups. Neurology, with its complex and evolving treatments, captivates me, and I hope to use my training to provide specialized care for individuals facing neurological disorders. My ultimate goal is to improve healthcare access for marginalized communities, ensuring that they receive the best possible care regardless of their background.

We at Watch The Yard would like to commend Jadah Forbes for her work as the SGA president of Delaware State University.

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