Leadership Highlight: Morgan State University’s Student Government President Tamera Trimuel

In an effort to highlight the people who are leading colleges and universities across the nation, we at Watch The Yard reached out to Morgan State University and did an interview with Tamera Trimuel, 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. Tamera Trimuel, who is majoring in Strategic Communication, is from Chicago and a proud Spring 2023 initiate of Delta Sigma Theta.

We interviewed Tamera Trimuel  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 so far is that people are always watching you—whether you realize it or not. Every decision, every action, every moment of leadership is an opportunity to set the tone, inspire others, and create a legacy. You are not just leading; you are representing a vision, a standard, and a movement that is bigger than yourself.

I’ve also learned that while it’s tempting to try to be Superwoman, true leadership isn’t about doing everything alone—it’s about empowering your administration to be superheroes for the student body in their own unique way. A great leader delegates, trusts, and uplifts because the power of student leadership isn’t in one person—it’s in the collective strength of a team that is passionate, driven, and ready to serve.

But with great leadership comes great pressure. Balancing the demands of my administration, advisors, and academics can feel overwhelming at times. That’s why I’ve learned the importance of balance. You can’t pour into others with an empty cup. Taking time to breathe, reset, and prioritize mental well-being isn’t just a luxury—it’s a necessity.

Above all, I’ve learned that leadership should be fun. The best way to serve is by creating an environment where people love what they do and feel connected to the mission. If work starts feeling like a chore, we’ve lost sight of the purpose. I want my team to wake up excited, to find joy in every initiative, and to truly fall in love with student leadership. Because when passion meets purpose, that’s when real change happens.

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

Morgan State was always my first choice because I saw firsthand the impact it had on my big sister and mentor, Ciara Evans. Watching how Morgan shaped her into a strong, purpose-driven leader inspired me to want the same experience for myself. I always knew I wanted to attend an HBCU—a place where I could grow, thrive, and be surrounded by a community that uplifts and empowers Black excellence.

However, at the time, I wasn’t able to visit Morgan’s campus because of COVID-19. Instead, I visited Elon University and fell in love with their campus and program. Everything about it seemed like the right choice on paper, but when I committed, something in my spirit didn’t feel settled. It was a feeling I couldn’t ignore, a feeling that you get from the Holy Spirit. Deep down, I knew my college journey wasn’t meant to start there.

So, I made the decision to rescind my commitment and follow my heart—straight to Morgan State. It was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. Not only did I commit to a university that aligned with my purpose, but I also received a full-ride scholarship, further confirming that this was exactly where I was meant to be. Morgan has given me more than an education—it has given me a community, a purpose, and a legacy to carry forward.

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

Morgan State University has molded me into the person I am today by giving me a platform to contribute to a purpose bigger than myself. It has allowed me to serve, to lead, and to uplift others in ways that have shaped my character and deepened my sense of responsibility. But beyond the titles and opportunities, Morgan has taught me one of the greatest lessons of all—temperance.

I’ve learned that things always align when they are supposed to—that no matter how much I plan, all I truly have to do is get out of my own way so God can have His. There is so much power in surrendering to His timing, His will, and His greater vision for my life. Morgan has reminded me, time and time again, that even when I don’t know what the next page in my story will read, I must trust the process, and understand it is about the journey, and not the destination.

This university has also emphasized the importance of always putting my best foot forward, no matter what, because you never know what God has in store for you. Every opportunity, every connection, and every challenge has prepared me for something greater, even when I didn’t realize it at the time.

But what truly makes Morgan special is the joy of friends becoming family. The people I have met here—the ones who have supported me, seen me, and understood me—have given me the gift of a chosen family. They have made this place a home away from home, a space where I feel loved, uplifted, and empowered to be the best version of myself. It’s true, HBCUs are HOME.

More than anything, Morgan has shown me that God is truly the author of my story. I have learned to trust His pen, to allow the pages of this book called life to turn in His perfect timing, and to walk forward in faith—knowing that what He has written for me is far greater than anything I could have written for myself.

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?

This year, my administration has spearheaded numerous initiatives that have significantly improved both our school and the surrounding community. We have provided community service opportunities for our student leaders throughout the entire academic year, reinforcing the importance of giving back and fostering civic engagement.

One of our major accomplishments was our Morgan Elects campaign, through which we successfully registered hundreds of students to vote on National Voter Registration Day (September 17). This effort empowered students to exercise their civic rights and play an active role in shaping their future.

To enhance the student experience, we successfully passed the student fee increase legislation, ensuring that resources are allocated to improve campus life. We also took a stand against cyberbullying by banning Fizz from our school WiFi, creating a safer virtual space for all students.

Supporting student entrepreneurs has been a priority, leading to the launch of the first-ever Entrepreneurial Development & Assistance Center and SGA Pitch Competition. This initiative provides students with the knowledge and resources to start and run their businesses, with the competition winner receiving seed funding at the end of the semester.

Recognizing the importance of campus cleanliness and safety, we successfully advocated for the return of the second housekeeping shift, ensuring a well-maintained environment for students and faculty. Additionally, we have significantly increased student engagement, amassing over 1 million views on our Instagram, and have given away a $500 scholarship to a deserving student.

Looking ahead, we are launching several impactful initiatives. Our No Label Initiative aims to create a more inclusive learning environment by ensuring that professors and advisors receive training on supporting neurodivergent students. A dedicated Research Committee has been formed to assess best practices and implement effective training for professional staff.
We are also committed to honoring the legacy of our Morgan family by building a Morgan Memorial—a space for reflection and remembrance of our lost Bears. We are currently reviewing a previous proposal from 2021 and evaluating necessary changes to move forward with implementation.

Lastly, we are introducing the first-ever Renaissance Administration Organization Scholarship, supporting our Restrengthen Initiative. With $500 awarded to four selected campus organizations, this scholarship will provide resources to strengthen their impact on campus life. Through these initiatives, we are not only enhancing the student experience but also fostering a stronger, safer, and more engaged Morgan community.

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

Our university is deeply committed to supporting students’ mental health and well-being. One of the key initiatives we’ve implemented is Wellness Days for the past 4 years. These are designated days where students can pause, recharge, and focus on self-care without the stress of academic responsibilities. To ensure these days serve their intended purpose, we actively survey students to assess their effectiveness and gather feedback on how we can improve them. Additionally, we work closely with faculty to make sure that no classes are held and no assignments are due on these days, allowing students to fully disconnect and prioritize their well-being.

We offer a comprehensive network of mental health support. Students have access to both on-campus and virtual therapists, ensuring that no matter where they are, they can receive the guidance and care they need. To further support our community, we have a 24-hour mental health hotline, providing immediate assistance for students who may need help at any time of the day or night. Our Counseling Center also offers countless opportunities for students to enhance their mental well-being through workshops, group therapy, and personalized counseling sessions.

Our goal is to create a campus environment where mental health is valued just as much as academic success.

What does leadership mean to you?

To me, leadership is legacy. It’s not just about the title or the position—it’s about the impact you create, the people you uplift, and the foundation you lay for those who come after you. True leadership isn’t measured by how far you go alone, but by how many people you bring with you. That’s why I believe in the principle of lifting while I am climbing—ensuring that as I grow, I am also creating opportunities for others to rise.

A real leader doesn’t just seek success for themselves; they train and empower the next generation to be even greater. Leadership is about planting seeds that will grow long after you are gone. It’s about creating an impact that others remember even when you’re not present. The best leaders don’t fear being replaced—they take pride in knowing they’ve equipped others to carry the torch even further.

At its core, leadership is about service, vision, and legacy. It’s about using your influence to inspire change, build community, and leave things better than you found them. It’s about making sure that when you step away, the mission continues, the people thrive, and the impact lasts.

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

In 2025, schools must embrace the digital world not just as a tool, but as a living, breathing extension of their community. The way a school represents itself online should reflect its core values, culture, and commitment to its students in an authentic and engaging way. It’s no longer just about posting announcements or sharing campus news—it’s about building trust, fostering connection, and creating experiences that resonate with students on a personal level.
As a student leader, I stress the importance of connecting through creativity, whether the initiative is big or small. Creativity isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about impact. It’s about making students feel seen, heard, and valued. A well-crafted digital presence should do more than inform; it should inspire, engage, and uplift. Whether it’s through interactive social media campaigns, student-led content, or digital storytelling that brings our community to life, schools must create authentic moments that students can connect with.

The digital world is only getting bigger, and with that comes an even greater responsibility. Social media is a huge part of what students consume daily, and if we want to keep them engaged, we must meet them where they are—with integrity, transparency, and purpose. A school’s online presence should feel like a safe space, a home, a reflection of its mission beyond the classroom. When students trust that their institution cares about them not just academically but holistically, that’s when real connection happens. That’s when school spirit transcends a campus and becomes a movement.

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

Watch The Yard is important to Black students and college culture because it creates a space where our excellence, traditions, and achievements are celebrated unapologetically. In a world where mainstream media often overlooks or misrepresents Black narratives, this platform ensures that Black youth see positive versions of themselves and their aspirations displayed online daily. It highlights the brilliance of Black scholars, the legacy of Divine Nine organizations, and the impact of student leadership, reinforcing the idea that we are more than capable of shaping history.

Representation matters, and seeing people who look like us thrive in academics, leadership, and community service is both inspiring and empowering. Watch The Yard also serves as a digital archive, preserving the culture and contributions of Black college students for future generations. It reminds us that our stories deserve to be told, our voices deserve to be heard, and our achievements deserve to be recognized. More than just a media platform, Watch The Yard is a movement that uplifts, connects, and empowers Black students to walk confidently in their purpose.

What do you plan on doing after graduation?

After graduation, I plan to take my ambitions to the next level by pursuing a master’s degree, followed by law school, with plans of becoming an entertainment attorney. My goal is to advocate for creatives, entrepreneurs, and visionaries who deserve the right contracts, the right opportunities, and the right legal protection in an industry that often overlooks us. In simple terms, I want to produce AND protect OUR content!

But my journey doesn’t stop there. I’m also committed to continuing to build my media company, AREMAT Media, LLC—a one-stop shop for all things communication, media, production, and PR for Black-owned brands and businesses. My vision is to create a powerhouse that amplifies our stories, elevates our voices, and ensures that our narratives are told with purpose, intention, and in excellence.

For me, success isn’t just about personal achievements—it’s about impact. I want to show other Black college students that we don’t have to fit into one lane. We can be scholars and entrepreneurs, creatives and business owners, leaders and changemakers—all at the same time. I’m excited for what’s next, but more than anything, I’m committed to bringing others along with me. The work doesn’t stop after graduation—it’s only the beginning.

We at Watch The Yard would like to commend Tamera Trimuel for her work as the SGA president of Morgan State University .

Share this on Facebook and help us highlight Tamera Trimuel  and Morgan State University.