Leadership Highlight: Xavier University of Louisiana’s Student Government President Chase Patterson

In an effort to highlight the people who are leading colleges and universities across the nation, we at Watch The Yard reached out to Xavier University of Louisiana and did an interview with Chase Patterson, 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. Chase Patterson, who is majoring in Biology Pre-medicine, is from Atlanta, GA and is a Fall 2023 initiate of Omega Psi Phi.

We interviewed Patterson 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’ve learned as SGA President is that no task should be in vain. Early on, I found myself working tirelessly but seeing minimal progress. I had to critically assess whether my efforts were truly driving change or simply filling time. Once I aligned my tasks with a clear, strategic vision, I became far more effective in leading initiatives and advocating for students. Now, every project and decision is intentional, ensuring that my leadership leaves a lasting impact.

What made you decide to attend Xavier University of Louisiana for undergrad?

My goal is to become an orthopedic surgeon specializing in sports medicine. Given the challenges of the medical field, I knew I needed to attend an institution with a proven track record of preparing Black students for success in healthcare. Xavier University of Louisiana consistently graduates the highest number of Black doctors in the country, and I wanted to be part of that legacy. Beyond the academics, Xavier’s culture of excellence, service, and resilience made it the perfect choice for my undergraduate journey.

How has Xavier University of Louisiana molded you into the person you are today?

I can confidently say that I am a completely different person compared to who I was as a freshman. Xavier has challenged me to grow in ways I never anticipated. I’ve developed the confidence to network with influential leaders, sharpened my ability to critically think through complex issues, and expanded my aspirations beyond just becoming a doctor. Now, I see myself not only as a future physician but also as a leader who can create meaningful change in the African American community through healthcare, policy, and mentorship.

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?

One of the key initiatives I have worked on is expanding student tailgates to boost student morale. Currently, we only have one official tailgate each year during Homecoming, which limits opportunities for students to engage in school spirit and community-building. To change this, we’ve been working to amend the existing policy and remove restrictions that prevent additional tailgates from taking place. By creating more spaces for students to come together outside of the classroom, we can strengthen school pride and enhance the overall student experience.

Another major initiative is amending our SGA Constitution for the first time in four years, with the most significant change being a proposed incremental increase in the Student Activity Fee over the next five years. This adjustment would allow SGA to operate with an annual budget of approximately $3 million, an unprecedented increase that would significantly expand our ability to fund student programs, initiatives, and campus improvements. This change will ensure that future SGA administrations have the financial resources to better serve the student body and address long-standing needs.

Finally, we are working to secure exclusive Xavierite discounts with businesses in New Orleans. By partnering with local stores, restaurants, and service providers, we aim to create tangible financial benefits for students, making everyday expenses more affordable. This initiative not only enhances student life but also strengthens Xavier’s relationship with the broader New Orleans community, fostering a mutually beneficial partnership between the university and local businesses.

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

One of the key initiatives I have worked on is the Holistic Student’s Wellbeing Policy, which I originally introduced as a Senator. This policy allows students to take two personal days per semester at their discretion without penalty, amends our academic leave policy, and establishes a campus-wide mental health day.

Additionally, my administration is pushing for scholarship reform, advocating for students to regain their academic scholarships if they surpass the minimum requirements that initially awarded them.

Beyond policy, we are also focusing on campus culture and morale, including the placement of aesthetic positive affirmations around campus to provide motivation and encouragement for students. Each of these initiatives is designed to improve the student experience by addressing both academic and mental health needs, ensuring that our campus fosters a culture of success and support.

What does leadership mean to you?

Leadership is about guiding and inspiring others toward a shared vision without dictating their path. True leadership isn’t about authority or control—it’s about influence, empowerment, and service. A great leader illuminates opportunities that others may not have seen on their own and provides the encouragement, resources, and direction needed to help them reach their full potential. However, leadership is not just about getting others to follow—it’s about understanding their aspirations and incorporating their perspectives into the larger vision. When people see their ideas, goals, and values reflected in the broader mission, they are more likely to take ownership and fully invest in achieving it. The most effective leaders listen, adapt, and create a sense of collective purpose, ensuring that success is not just personal but shared. Leaders build not just followers, but future leaders who are equally committed to the vision.

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

A strong online presence should go beyond traditional websites and emails—it should create a dynamic and interactive experience for students, faculty, and alumni. Schools need to leverage social media platforms strategically, using them to showcase student achievements, highlight campus culture, and engage in meaningful conversations with their audiences. Transparency should also be a priority, with institutions ensuring that students can easily access academic resources, mental health services, and financial aid information online. Additionally, schools should integrate digital networking opportunities, connecting students with alumni and industry professionals to enhance career readiness. By embracing innovative technology, such as virtual tours, AI-driven academic advising, and interactive learning platforms, institutions can modernize the student experience and strengthen their brand.

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

Watch The Yard plays a crucial role in fostering unity, representation, and connectivity among Black students and the broader college culture. One of the most common themes I’ve heard from student leaders across HBCUs is the desire to build stronger coalitions and networks among our institutions. While we each have unique campus experiences, we share common goals of empowerment, leadership, and cultural preservation. Watch The Yard serves as a bridge, allowing us to not only celebrate our traditions and achievements but also to learn from one another. It provides a platform where student leaders can showcase their initiatives, gain insight into how other SGAs operate, and adopt best practices that strengthen our own campuses. Beyond leadership, it reinforces the legacy and impact of Black excellence in higher education by documenting our stories, highlighting our contributions, and ensuring that our voices are amplified on a national scale. In a world where representation matters, Watch The Yard is more than just a media platform—it’s a unifying force that connects, inspires, and uplifts (shout out Que Psi Phi) Black students across the country.

What do you plan on doing after graduation?

I will be attending Tulane University for graduate school to obtain a master’s degree in biochemistry and molecular biology before I apply to medical school. Aside from academics, I plan to use this time holistically, building my skill set and exploring other interests such as data analytics and business.

We at Watch The Yard would like to commend Chase Patterson for his work as the SGA president of Xavier University of Louisiana.

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