Leadership Highlight: Melanie Glover The SGA President of Northeastern Illinois University

In an effort to highlight the people who are leading graduate universities across the nation, we at Watch The Yard reached out to Northeastern Illinois University and did an interview with Melanie Danise Glover the Student Government Association president.

The position of SGA president of a is a highly respected role and there is a special pride that one takes. Glover, who is majoring in Graduate Program Urban Community Studies, is a current senior and a Spring 2017 initiate of Sigma Gamma Rho.

We interviewed Glover, and talked to her about her position, goals, future and what it means to hold this type of leadership position in 2020.

Read the full interview below.

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

I have learned when you have a lack of transparency you can leave someone feeling as if they don’t belong. They can even have feeling of distrust. When you are in a leadership role you must be transparent , have advocacy ,and an open mind . This will help you to build relationships. 

What made you decide to attend Northeastern Illinois University for undergrad?

I decided to attend NEIU for two reasons.The two reason was because of community and a sense of belonging . Being here at NEIU you can be who you are no matter your background. .They help you to excel in who you are and navigate through your past experiences. I have found that being here you can find who you desire to be, and who desire to become. 

How has Northeastern Illinois University molded you into the person you are today?

NEIU has shown me how to use my life experiences. My life experiences tell my story and how I became who I am. Those stories and experiences will set me apart from any one else .

What specific initiatives have you headed up this year and how do you think they will improve the school and surrounding community?

One initiative that I have started is teaching Freshmen how to be self advocates . In life you have learned to let your mind be a parachute . Opening your mind to everything and let our ideas flow. When your ideas begin to flow ;greatness happens. I believe self advocates teaches students to use their voice and their power to tell someone what they need as a student .The institution is here for students to utilize and equip themselves for life.

How is your school currently responding to the coronavirus and what is your SGA administration doing to help students?

NEIU is letting students know that no matter what they are here for us. NEIU is our family. SGA working on giving out different resources and being available to help student wherever they need help .

How is the coronavirus affecting SGA elections for next year?

Coronavirus isn’t affecting elections. We are still having elections and campaigning. Students are just coming up with more innovative ways to campaign. 

What does leadership mean to you?

Leadership means passion and selfless service. I am a leader who is passion about students and helping students succeed. I am selfless in many ways . Students know they can call or text me at anytime and I will help them in anyway I can .

We now live in a digital world, what do you think schools need to do to represent themselves online in 2020?

Advertise and share student stories. The stories of untraditional student who haven’t given up.

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

Watch The Yard is important because it show Black culture and black students lives in a positive , motivating, and inspiring way . Watch The Yard helps Black culture to let our light shine.

What do you plan on doing after graduation?

Currently I am enrolled in Graduate School. After Graduate School I plan on attending Law School . I would like to become a defense attorney for juveniles.

We at Watch The Yard would like to commend Melanie Danise Glover for her work as the SGA president of Northeastern Illinois University.

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