Leadership Highlight: Savannah State University’s Student Government President Katelyn Green

In an effort to highlight the people who are leading colleges and universities across the nation, we at Watch The Yard reached out to Savannah State University and did an interview with Katelyn Green, 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. Katelyn Green, who is majoring in Chemistry, is from Macon, GA and a proud Fall 2023 initiate of Delta Sigma Theta.

We interviewed Katelyn 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?

Everyone NEEDS help! As far down from students to higher administration.

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

The most significant lesson I have learned as SGA President is that everyone needs help—whether it’s students, faculty, or administration. Throughout my tenure, I have recognized a continuous need for improvement, support, and collaboration at all levels. Students often require guidance in navigating and effectively communicating with administration, while administrators need assistance in translating their initiatives and policies to students in a way that resonates with them.

I, too, have realized the importance of seeking help. Leadership, academics, and personal commitments—such as balancing my role as SGA President and being a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.—can become overwhelming at times. Without the support of my staff, peers, and friends, I truly don’t know how I would have made it this far.

One key message I consistently emphasize to my Executive Board and class representatives is that it is always okay to ask for help; what’s not okay is remaining silent when support is needed. Together, as a campus community, we can thrive while also addressing our individual needs. I am still learning and growing in my role as President, but once I embraced the reality that I couldn’t do it all alone, everything began to flow more smoothly.

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

Savannah State University has played a pivotal role in shaping me into the person I am today. This institution has not only provided me with academic knowledge but also invaluable life experiences that have strengthened my leadership skills, resilience, and sense of purpose.

Through my involvement in various organizations, particularly serving as SGA President and being a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., I have learned the importance of servant leadership, effective communication, and the power of collaboration. Savannah State has challenged me to step out of my comfort zone, embrace new opportunities, and develop a deeper understanding of what it means to lead with integrity and purpose.

The university’s diverse community has exposed me to different perspectives, fostering my personal growth and shaping my ability to navigate complex situations with confidence and empathy. Whether through engaging with my peers, working alongside faculty and administration, or participating in campus initiatives, I have gained a profound appreciation for the importance of unity and perseverance.

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?

Key Initiatives as SGA President 

1. Male Summit & Mentorship Program – Aimed at providing mentorship and resources to support male students in their academic and personal growth. 

2. Student Body Forums – A platform for students to voice concerns and suggest campus improvements, fostering better communication with administration. 

3. Self-Care Day for Young Women – An event promoting mental, emotional, and physical well-being among female students. 

4. Chat & Chew with the Interim President – A direct forum for students to address concerns and clear up miscommunications, including those related to Hurricane Helene. 

5. We Paid Friday Financial Literacy Event – Partnering with an outside bank to provide students with essential financial education and resources. 

6. National Voter Registration Day – Led the largest voter registration event in our campus’s history, encouraging civic engagement. 

7. Reusable To-Go Trays Initiative – Successfully implemented reusable to-go trays in the cafeteria, helping students save time while maintaining access to meals. 

Each initiative aims to enhance student life, promote engagement, and build a stronger connection within our campus and the surrounding community.

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

Our SGA administration is actively working to promote better mental health initiatives for students. Currently, we provide access to a virtual therapy platform, allowing students to connect with a therapist anytime, right at their fingertips. This resource offers a convenient and confidential way for students to seek support whenever they need it.

Additionally, we are exploring the possibility of implementing mental health days to give students the opportunity to prioritize their well-being without academic pressure. However, this initiative requires further research, including benchmarking with our sister schools to understand best practices.

While we are committed to enhancing mental health support, financial constraints remain a challenge. We recognize the need for additional funding to expand our efforts and provide more comprehensive resources to support the mental and emotional well-being of our students. Despite these challenges, we are dedicated to advocating for greater mental health support across campus.

What does leadership mean to you?

True leadership is measured by respect—do people trust you enough to listen, follow, and engage? It’s not about authority; it’s about influence, service, and collaboration.

Leadership means serving those who elected me, working alongside administration, and advocating for the needs of the student body. It’s about being a bridge—ensuring that students feel heard and that their concerns are addressed while fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose. Ultimately, leadership is about selflessness, integrity, and the ability to inspire and empower others to work toward a common goal.

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 establish a strong and engaging online presence to effectively connect with students, faculty, and the broader community. This includes enhancing social media engagement through platforms like Instagram and TikTok to share compelling content and foster interaction. Institutions should also leverage AI to provide personalized digital experiences and offer immersive virtual campus experiences to attract and support students. Ensuring transparency and accessibility in their online platforms is crucial, alongside implementing effective crisis communication strategies to maintain trust. Additionally, promoting digital wellness initiatives will help students balance their online and offline lives. By embracing these strategies, schools can create a meaningful online presence that reflects their values and supports student success.

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

Representation matters, and Watch The Yard plays a crucial role in showcasing the diversity, excellence, and leadership within Black college culture. It provides a platform where students can see people who look like them excelling in various capacities, reinforcing the idea that their goals are attainable. I recently had the incredible opportunity to introduce former Vice President Kamala Harris at her rally in Savannah, and the overwhelming support from my peers was truly inspiring. Many of them congratulated me and expressed how motivated they felt, seeing someone who sits in the same classrooms as they do achieving such milestones. I never seek to elevate myself above others, but being recognized for my achievements encourages my fellow students to strive for their own success and realize that hard work truly pays off.

Watch The Yard is important because it highlights the diversity of leadership roles, talents, and cultures across different universities, creating a sense of unity and inspiration within the Black college community. It celebrates our accomplishments, fosters pride, and encourages students to dream bigger while staying connected to their cultural roots.

What do you plan on doing after graduation?

After graduation, I plan to join the Air Force to serve my country in meaningful ways and contribute to something greater than myself. During my time in the military, I aim to pursue my passion for healthcare by attending pharmacy school to obtain my PharmD. My ultimate goal is to use my education and experience to help underserved communities find more affordable and accessible solutions for essential medications. I am committed to making a difference by addressing healthcare disparities and ensuring that those in lower-income areas have better options for managing their health.

We at Watch The Yard would like to commend Katelyn Green for her work as the SGA president of Savannah State University .

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