Leadership Highlight: Cheyney University  Student Government President Charles Mitchell

In an effort to highlight the people who are leading colleges and universities across the nation, we at Watch The Yard reached out to Cheyney University and did an interview with Charles Mitchell, 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. Mitchell, who is majoring in Social Relations with a concentration in Criminal Justice, is from Philadelphia.

We interviewed Charles Mitchell 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 most important lesson I have learned as SGA president is that leadership requires hard work, resilience, and a steadfast commitment to serving the community. Not everyone will agree with your decisions, but your responsibility is to prioritize the needs of the students and ensure that the work gets done. A strong leader does not govern based on personal emotions or feelings but instead focuses on addressing the challenges faced by their constituents. Additionally, I have learned that “no” is never the end of the conversation, it simply means there is more work to be done to achieve the desired outcome.

What made you decide to attend Cheyney University for undergrad?

I chose to attend Cheyney University because of its rich history as the nation’s first HBCU and its profound legacy of excellence. The strength of its alumni network and the opportunity to walk in the footsteps of some of the greatest leaders ever produced were major factors in my decision. As the mother campus of all HBCUs, Cheyney represents resilience, empowerment, and a deep connection to my roots. I wanted to be part of that legacy honoring my ancestors while preparing to make an impact in my field.

How has Cheyney University molded you into the person you are today?

Absolutely! Cheyney University has shaped me into the leader I am today. As a freshman, I was virtually unknown and rarely left my dorm, facing numerous challenges as a first-generation college student. However, Cheyney helped me discover my potential, pushing me beyond my comfort zone and empowering me to grow. The university provided me with the opportunities, support, and confidence needed to become the leader I am now. Without Cheyney, I wouldn’t have made it this far.

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?

Some of our most significant initiatives have focused on strengthening the connection between alumni and students, reviving Town Hall meetings, and hosting the first SGA inauguration in years. We also successfully organized the largest homecoming Cheyney has seen in recent history. Currently, we are working on reinstating academic awards, enhancing internal communication between students and administration, and securing a dedicated office space for SGA. Additionally, we are fundraising for future campus beautification projects, expanding scholarship opportunities for students, and pursuing various initiatives to ensure long-term student success.

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

We have multiple on-campus therapists and a variety of programs designed to support students’ mental and academic well-being. Events such as Table Talks, de-stress activities, and study sessions help alleviate academic pressure and foster a sense of community. Our campus leaders have worked diligently to ensure that every student has opportunities to engage, connect, and find support, creating a more inclusive and vibrant campus experience.

What does leadership mean to you?

To me, leadership means always prioritizing the needs of the people you serve. It is about being the voice for those who feel unheard and offering support when it’s needed most. True leadership is selfless and often goes unrecognized, but a dedicated leader remains committed to making the best decisions and advocating for both those who cannot speak for themselves and those who can. It is a responsibility that requires resilience, empathy, and an unwavering commitment to the greater good.

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

It’s important to continue highlighting the incredible work and accomplishments of our students, but true progress also requires transparency about the challenges we face. Honest communication helps build trust, and I believe universities must provide students with a full, informed picture of their institution the successes, the struggles, and the solutions in progress.

By openly addressing areas for improvement and sharing actionable plans for the future, we can strengthen retention rates and create a more engaged and committed student body. Students deserve to know what they are signing up for, and this level of honesty fosters a sense of accountability between the administration and the student community. Integrating this approach into our communication this year will ensure that Cheyney continues to grow while empowering students to make the best decisions for their education and future.

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

Watch The Yard is essential because it serves as a bridge between our successes and struggles, keeping us informed and uniting students and alumni across various institutions. It provides a platform that not only highlights the achievements of hardworking college students and graduates but also ensures that our voices are heard in spaces where we are often overlooked. In many cases, Watch The Yard has kept me informed on important situations faster than traditional news outlets, reinforcing its role as a vital resource for student leadership, campus culture, and student excellence.

What do you plan on doing after graduation?

My plans after college include continuing to work as a juvenile officer during my gap year before attending law school. After earning my law degree, I aim to pursue a career as a corporate lawyer and eventually establish my own practice specializing in supporting small Black businesses. My goal is to provide legal guidance that empowers entrepreneurs and strengthens economic growth within the community.

We at Watch The Yard would like to commend Charles Mitchell for his work as the SGA president of Cheyney University.

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