Leadership Highlight: Southern University at New Orleans Student Government President Dana Bailey

In an effort to highlight the people who are leading colleges and universities across the nation, we at Watch The Yard reached out to Southern University at New Orleans and did an interview with Dana Bailey, 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. Dana Bailey, who is majoring in Social Work & Public Administration, is from New Orleans.

We interviewed Dana Bailey 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 patience — but not just in the sense of waiting for results. I’ve learned to be patient with the process, understanding that meaningful change takes time, collaboration, and resilience. I’ve also discovered the importance of active listening and how giving people space to share their ideas often leads to stronger decisions. Leadership has shown me that adaptability is key because plans don’t always go as expected, but how you respond makes all the difference. Finally, I’ve come to value the power of servant leadership — putting the needs of others first and finding fulfillment in helping others succeed. Through these lessons, I’m constantly growing not only as a leader but as a person.

What made you decide to attend Southern University at New Orleans for undergrad?

I chose to attend Southern University at New Orleans for my undergraduate studies because it offered the perfect combination of affordability, opportunity, and alignment with my goals. The affordability made it possible for me to pursue higher education without being overwhelmed by financial stress, which was crucial for me. Beyond that, SUNO presented endless possibilities—both academically and through leadership roles, community service, and campus involvement. I knew that this was a place where I could grow, thrive, and make a real impact. Lastly, my major played a key role in my decision. SUNO’s focus on excellence within my field and its supportive environment assured me that I would gain both the knowledge and practical experience needed to succeed in my career.

How has Southern University at New Orleans molded you into the person you are today?

Southern University at New Orleans has been more than just a place where I earned my degree—it’s been a transformative experience that shaped me into the person I am today. It turned a student into a scholar, giving me the knowledge and critical thinking skills to excel academically and beyond. It turned a girl into a woman, helping me grow through challenges, leadership opportunities, and life lessons that required maturity, resilience, and self-reflection.

SUNO also cultivated my voice as a leader and advocate, showing me the power of speaking up for others and the value of servant leadership. Through engaging with diverse perspectives and working alongside peers and faculty, I gained confidence in my abilities and learned how to balance ambition with empathy. This journey wasn’t just about academics; it was about finding purpose, building lasting relationships, and understanding the importance of giving back to my community. Today, I carry SUNO’s legacy of excellence, strength, and service in everything I do.

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 been fortunate to lead several impactful initiatives aimed at improving both the school and the surrounding community. One of the most exciting projects I’m spearheading is starting a band, which will enhance school spirit, foster unity, and give students another outlet to showcase their talents. I also played a pivotal role in the creation of the campus’s first-ever Counseling Center, a vital resource to promote mental health and ensure that students have access to the emotional and psychological support they need to thrive.

Additionally, I founded a chapter of the NAACP on campus, giving students a platform for advocacy, civic engagement, and social justice work that extends beyond the university. I also initiated a program aimed at helping students pay off their debt so they can graduate without financial burdens holding them back. These efforts aren’t just about making changes within the university—they’re about creating lasting opportunities for personal, academic, and community development that will benefit generations to come.

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

Our FORWARD SGA Administration is committed to supporting the mental health of our students through meaningful initiatives. One of our major accomplishments is the creation of the campus’s first Counseling Center, offering students access to professional mental health services, support groups, and helpful workshops. This center ensures students have a safe and supportive space to address their needs and build healthy coping strategies.

We’ve also introduced Mental Health Days throughout the semester, allowing students to take a break, recharge, and focus on self-care without worrying about falling behind. Additionally, we host a Day of Mental Health, a campus-wide event where students can participate in wellness activities, workshops, and reflective sessions designed to give them a much-needed break.

Through these initiatives, our FORWARD Administration is building a supportive campus environment where mental well-being is a top priority.

What does leadership mean to you?

To me, leadership means embodying strength, resilience, and purpose while paving the way for others. It’s about standing tall in spaces where our voices have historically been silenced and using that voice to create change. Leadership is about breaking barriers while lifting as you climb, ensuring that the next generation can rise higher and face fewer obstacles.

It also means leading with empathy—understanding the unique challenges that come with being a woman of color and using that understanding to advocate for inclusivity, equity, and justice. As a leader, I believe it’s not only about making decisions but about inspiring others to believe in themselves, to dream boldly, and to see their potential even when the world tries to dim their light.

For me, leadership is rooted in legacy—honoring those who came before me and creating opportunities for those who will come after. It’s about being unshakable in the face of adversity and showing others that their identity is a source of power, not a limitation. True leadership means knowing that my success is not measured by personal achievements alone but by the community I help uplift along the way.

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 embrace the digital world by focusing on strong branding and transparency. Effective branding helps showcase the school’s values, achievements, and culture through engaging content on social media, websites, and digital platforms, attracting students, alumni, and community support. Transparency ensures that important information—such as campus resources, programs, and mental health services—is easily accessible. Regular updates and open dialogue through blogs, videos, or live Q&A sessions keep students and stakeholders informed and connected. By being authentic and inclusive online, schools can build trust and foster stronger, more engaged communities.

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 celebrates and preserves the rich history, traditions, and contributions of Black Greek-letter organizations (BGLOs) and HBCU life. It serves as a platform that highlights the achievements of Black students, showcases cultural pride, and amplifies voices that are often underrepresented in mainstream media. Through its content, it provides a sense of connection and belonging, reminding students that they are part of a legacy much bigger than themselves.

The platform also educates and inspires, offering visibility into the power of leadership, community service, and academic excellence rooted in Black college life. By sharing stories of resilience, creativity, and unity, Watch The Yard helps students embrace their identity and motivates them to continue the legacy of excellence within their communities. It’s more than a media outlet—it’s a cultural archive that uplifts, empowers, and connects Black students across the nation.

What do you plan on doing after graduation?

After graduation, I plan to continue building on the foundation I’ve created through leadership, service, and advocacy. I aim to further my education or career in public administration, potentially pursuing advanced studies or a role that allows me to advocate for policy change, community development, and effective governance. I also plan to stay connected with my community through initiatives that uplift others, whether through mentoring, activism, or partnerships with organizations like the NAACP. My long-term vision includes creating opportunities for others, continuing to lead by example, and contributing to something greater than myself. Ultimately, I want to combine my passion for leadership, advocacy, and service to make a lasting impact wherever I go.

We at Watch The Yard would like to commend Dana Bailey for her work as the SGA president of Southern University at New Orleans.

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