Leadership Highlight: Jackson State University’s Student Government President Caleab Pickens

In an effort to highlight the people who are leading colleges and universities across the nation, we at Watch The Yard reached out to Jackson State University  and did an interview with Caleab Pickens, 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. Pickens, who is majoring in Public Health, is from Jackson, Mississippi.

We interviewed Caleab Pickens and talked to him about his 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 that leadership is about balance—between advocating for students, working with administration, and making tough decisions that may not always be popular but are necessary for progress. I’ve realized that you can’t please everyone, but if you stay focused on the bigger picture and remain true to your purpose, the impact will speak for itself. Communication, patience, and resilience are key, and above all, leading with integrity and authenticity makes all the difference.

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

I chose Jackson State University because I wanted to be in a place that felt like home—a community that would support me, challenge me, and help me grow. Coming from Jackson, I’ve always seen JSU as more than just a university; it’s a cornerstone of the city, a place where Black excellence thrives. I knew that attending an HBCU, especially one with a strong legacy like JSU, would provide me with opportunities to lead, serve, and make an impact.

JSU is also a part of my family’s legacy—I’m a fourth-generation Tiger. Knowing that I’m walking the same halls as those before me makes my experience even more meaningful. It’s not just about earning a degree; it’s about continuing a tradition of excellence, service, and leadership.

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

Jackson State University has molded me into the leader, advocate, and person I am today by challenging me to step outside my comfort zone and truly embrace my purpose. From my time as Freshman Class President to serving as SGA President, JSU has provided me with opportunities to grow, serve, and make a tangible impact on my peers and the campus community.

Beyond leadership, JSU has reinforced the values of resilience, excellence, and service. The culture here has taught me the importance of using my voice to uplift others, standing firm in my beliefs, and always striving to leave a place better than I found it. The support from faculty, staff, and my peers has been invaluable, and being surrounded by Black excellence daily has only fueled my drive to succeed.

Most importantly, JSU has given me a deeper sense of purpose. It has prepared me not just academically, but personally and professionally, ensuring that wherever I go next, I carry the legacy of this institution with me.

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, I’ve focused on initiatives that enhance student life, promote civic engagement, and address critical needs within our campus community. Some of the key initiatives I’ve led or am currently planning include:

1. Voter Registration & Civic Engagement – I organized a voter registration drive in partnership with NPHC and CAB to ensure students are informed and prepared to participate in upcoming elections. Additionally, I worked to increase awareness of our on-campus polling location, making it more accessible for students to vote.

2. Mental Health & Wellness Events – We are preparing for Dear Brother and Dear Sister talks, in collaboration with campus organizations and the Latasha Norman Center, to provide students with a space to discuss mental health, access counseling services, and engage in self-care activities.

3. Sexual Health Education & Safety – I planned I Think I Love ’Em: Sex Talk 101, an interactive event featuring a sexologist and local health organizations to educate students on safe sex practices and available resources. Additionally, I requested a Homecoming Prep Guide talk to educate students on safety, knowing their rights, and de-escalation tactics.

4. Career & Academic Development – I established the ROAR Internship Program to connect students with real-world work experiences. I’m also hosting a Resume and Scholarship Help event to equip students with tools for academic and professional success.

5. Commuter & Transfer Student Support – To better serve commuter and transfer students, we hosted a Commuter and Transfer Student Breakfast as a grab-and-go event, ensuring they feel included and supported within the JSU community.

6. Menstrual Equity Initiative – We successfully installed Aunt Flow menstrual product dispensers across campus, ensuring students have free access to essential hygiene products. This initiative promotes health equity and supports students in need.

7. Community & Legacy Building – I planned a Presidential Brunch to bring back former SGA presidents, fostering mentorship and preserving JSU’s leadership legacy.

Each of these initiatives directly impacts students’ well-being, safety, and success while strengthening the connection between JSU and the surrounding community. My goal is to leave a lasting impact by refining the student experience and creating a university standard that prioritizes student needs.

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

Mental health has been a top priority for my administration, and we’ve taken a proactive approach to ensuring students have access to resources and safe spaces to discuss their well-being. Some of the key initiatives we’ve implemented or are currently working on include:

1. Dear Brother & Dear Sister Talks – We are hosting these gender-focused mental health discussions in collaboration with campus organizations and the Latasha Norman Center. These sessions provide students with a space to openly talk about mental health challenges, self-care strategies, and available counseling services.

2. Expanding Mental Health Resources – We are working closely with the Latasha Norman Center to advocate for more accessible counseling services and increased visibility of mental health professionals on campus. Our goal is to ensure students know where and how to seek help.

3. Wellness-Focused Events – We’ve incorporated self-care elements into our programming, such as mental health massages, relaxation activities, and mindfulness exercises to encourage students to prioritize their well-being.

4. Homecoming Safety & Wellness Talk – Understanding that homecoming can be a high-stress time, we are organizing a Homecoming Prep Guide talk that will include de-escalation tactics, knowing your rights, and overall safety tips to ensure students feel supported in all aspects.

5. SGA Open-Door Policy & Peer Support – We have fostered an open-door culture in SGA, where students can voice their concerns and seek guidance from student leaders who can help connect them with appropriate resources.

By implementing these initiatives, we are working to create a campus environment where mental health is prioritized, and students feel supported in their academic and personal lives.

What does leadership mean to you?

To me, leadership is deeply personal—it’s about service, sacrifice, and the responsibility to uplift others. It’s never been about titles or recognition, but about making sure the people I represent feel seen, heard, and valued. Leadership means stepping up even when it’s difficult, making tough decisions with integrity, and putting the needs of others before my own.

My journey has taught me that real leadership isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about listening, learning, and being willing to grow. It’s about standing firm in my purpose, even when the path is uncertain. Most importantly, leadership is about impact. If I can inspire someone to believe in themselves, fight for what’s right, or create opportunities for those who come after me, then I’ve done my job. Because at the end of the day, leadership isn’t just what you accomplish—it’s the legacy you leave behind.

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

In 2025, schools should focus on creating a strong, authentic presence online that reflects their values and culture. This means sharing real student experiences, achievements, and campus life through social media and websites. Communication should be clear and accessible, allowing students to easily find resources and engage with the school. Schools should also prioritize mental health by offering easy access to counseling and support services online. By doing this, schools can foster a supportive and inclusive digital environment while still keeping the focus on the in-person campus experience.

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 amplifies our voices, celebrates our achievements, and highlights the unique experiences we face. It creates a platform where we can showcase the rich history, traditions, and contributions of Black students, organizations, and faculty within higher education. By sharing stories of success, struggle, and community, it helps foster a sense of pride and belonging. It also strengthens the bond between historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) and the broader Black community, encouraging unity and support across generations. In essence, Watch The Yard plays a crucial role in preserving our legacy and uplifting Black excellence within academia.

What do you plan on doing after graduation?

After graduation, I plan on pursuing law school to continue my journey of advocating for others, especially children and families facing challenges like those I experienced growing up. I’m passionate about family, juvenile, and civil rights law, and I hope to eventually become a federal judge to help shape a more just and equitable society. Alongside that, I also plan to earn an MBA, as I believe combining law and business will give me the tools to create even more opportunities for those in underserved communities.

We at Watch The Yard would like to commend Caleab Pickens for he/him work as the SGA president of Jackson State University .

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