Leadership Highlight: Hampton University’s SGA President Tabius Wilson, Jr.

In an effort to highlight the people who are leading colleges and universities across the nation, we at Watch The Yard reached out to Hampton University and did an interview with Tabius Wilson, Jr. the 2022-2023 Student Government Association president.

The position of SGA president is a highly respected role and there is a special pride that one takes in being elected by their peers to lead. Wilson, who is majoring in Political Science, is from Easton, Maryland. He is a proud Spring 2021 initiate of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.

We interviewed Tabius Wilson, Jr., and talked to him about his position, goals, future and what it means to hold this type of leadership position in 2022-2023.

Read the full interview below.

What is the biggest thing you’ve learned as an SGA president so far?

As SGA President, I’ve learned how to effectively time manage and delegate tasks to accomplish a goal. I’ve learned how to effectively communicate with the student body to express their concerns and needs to our administration and utilize the campus resources made available to us. Most importantly, I’ve learned how to truly serve and assist with leading Hampton University to delivering the “#1 Student Experience in America.”

What made you decide to attend Hampton University for undergrad?

I decided to attend Hampton University for my undergraduate tenure due to the urge of wanting to be surrounded by our culture. Being from a predominantly white area, I wasn’t exposed to what it would be like to be surrounded by our community in pursuit of higher education. After taking a deeper look into Hampton University, I discovered how enriched this campus was to Black History. After visiting Hampton during admitted students’ day, I knew this was going to be my “Home by the Sea.”

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

Hampton University has greatly molded me into the person I am today by upholding what it means to be “the Standard of Excellence.” Hampton University is a very traditional institution that shapes its students to be exceptional majorities while at school, and overachieving minorities in the real world. Hampton University has guided me to find who I want to be and what mark I want to leave in this world. Hampton University empowered me to tackle any challenge that life may throw my way and always come out greater on the other side.

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?

The strategic plan of the 77th Administration of the Hampton University Student Government Association encompasses five focal points. Campus Safety & Wellness, Equity, Inclusion & Belong, the Hampton Experience, Student Advocacy, and Personal & Academic Advancement. Focusing on Equity, Inclusion & Belong to students across campus, we have spearheaded the creation of the SGA LGBTQ+ Caucus in addition to our Men’s Caucus and Women’s Caucus. The purpose of our caucuses is to provide a safe space for students to express themselves and be involved in the Student Government Association. The creation of the LGBTQ+ Caucus is the first step to allowing all students across Hampton University’s campus to feel supported and included as one.

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

The Hampton University Student Government Association prioritizes the importance of addressing mental health amongst college students. We work close and diligently with our Student Counseling Center and our Peer Health Educators to initiate and promote all mental health resources and outlets provided. Additionally, Hampton University has implemented two wellness days, one per semester, where students are provided a day free of classes to utilize the mental health events and programs taking place on campus.

What does leadership mean to you?

Leadership means to put the needs of others before yourself. Leadership requires one to be a selfless individual who keeps the needs of their followers in the forefront of everything they do. It requires one to listen, be open, and appreciative of the work of those who they lead. Leadership is about creating a clear vision that supports the needs and wants of those you serve and being open to change that vision if necessary.

We now live in a digital world, what do you think schools need to do to represent themselves online in 2022/2023?

Living in a digital world requires schools to stay up to date with the needs and trends throughout society. It requires schools to represent themselves in outlets that grab the attention of younger generations. From Instagram, Facebook, and maybe even TikTok, schools must create attractive and appealing ways to reach our younger audience in promotion of seeking higher education.

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 as it highlights the true essence of Historically Black College & Universities. It spotlights the importance of attending these universities through promoting positive publications of black college students in pursuit of success. Watch the Yard is a vital part of our community by spotlighting the experiences and lifestyles of black students across our country.

What do you plan on doing after graduation?

After graduation, I plan to attend law school to pursue my Juris Doctorate and go into the field of Corporate Law.

We at Watch The Yard would like to commend Tabius Wilson, Jr. for his work as the SGA president of Hampton University.

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