Leadership Highlight: Edward Waters University’s Student Government President Travales Woodard

In an effort to highlight the people who are leading colleges and universities across the nation, we at Watch The Yard reached out to Edward Waters University and did an interview with Travales Woodard, 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. Woodard, who is majoring in Biology/Pre-Med, is from Kissimmee, Florida and is a proud Fall 2022 initiate of Phi Beta Sigma.

We interviewed Travales Woodard  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 biggest thing I have learned as an SGA president so far is the importance of mastering the art of delegation, leveraging political acumen from both members and faculty, and understanding that real change takes time and effort to implement. Delegation has taught me how to trust my team and empower others to take ownership of their roles, which has been essential for managing the many moving parts of student government. Developing political acumen has helped me navigate complex relationships and build consensus among stakeholders, from my peers to faculty and administration. Overall, I’ve learned that meaningful change doesn’t happen overnight—it requires persistence, patience, and a clear vision to see it through. These lessons have been instrumental in helping me grow as a leader and better serve my community. 

What made you decide to attend Edward Waters University  for undergrad?

I decided to attend Edward Waters University for my undergraduate studies because it felt like the perfect fit from the very beginning. As the youngest in my family and a first-generation college student, I wanted a place where I could feel supported and embraced—and Edward Waters provided just that. From the moment I stepped on campus, the family-oriented and welcoming atmosphere made it feel like a home away from home. The close-knit community wasn’t just limited to students; friends and faculty members quickly became like family, with professors and mentors feeling like aunties and uncles who genuinely cared about my success.

I also appreciated that Edward Waters isn’t a big university. The smaller setting allowed me to build meaningful relationships and feel like more than just a number. On top of that, being offered a full-ride scholarship was a blessing that made my dream of higher education possible without financial stress. Choosing Edward Waters University has been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made—it’s a place that has truly nurtured me, challenged me, and helped me grow in ways I never imagined.

How has Edward Waters University  molded you into the person you are today?

Edward Waters University has molded me into the person I am today by providing me with a foundation of support, growth, and opportunity. As a first-generation college student, Edward Waters has equipped me with the tools to overcome challenges, think critically, and advocate for myself and others. The smaller class sizes and personal attention have not only helped me build confidence in my abilities but also develop leadership skills I never thought I had. The university has taught me the importance of leading with empathy and integrity, embracing the power of my voice and character, and striving for excellence in everything I do. Most importantly, the values of service, perseverance, and excellence that are instilled here have shaped my character and prepared me to make a meaningful impact beyond campus. I am deeply grateful for how Edward Waters University has nurtured me into a more determined, compassionate, and purpose-driven individual, ready to lead and make a difference in the real world.

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 have had the privilege of leading several initiatives aimed at improving both Edward Waters University and the surrounding community. One of my key projects has been organizing weekly academic workshops to help students strengthen their skills, excel in their coursework, and better prepare for their future careers. I have also advocated for better academic opportunities, resources, and tools to ensure students not only succeed in their majors but are also fully equipped to thrive after graduation. This includes efforts to enhance career development programs, access to internships, and professional certification support.

Additionally, I help spearhead a youth mentorship program with a local elementary school, where Edward Waters students’ mentor younger students, focusing on academic support, leadership development, and fostering a passion for learning. This initiative has been incredibly rewarding, as it bridges our campus and the surrounding community while inspiring the next generation.

I’ve also worked on community service drives, such as food and clothing donations for underserved neighborhoods, and prioritized efforts to expand campus resources for mental health and wellness, ensuring that all students feel supported both academically and personally.

Most importantly, I am committed to leaving a legacy by establishing a scholarship to support future students. This scholarship will help provide opportunities for those in need, ensuring that the values of service and empowerment continue to flourish at Edward Waters University long after my time here.

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

At Edward Waters University, the mental health and well-being of our students is a top priority for our SGA administration. We are committed to ensuring students have the support and resources they need to thrive, both academically and personally. This year, one of our key initiatives has been partnering with the Office of Student Wellness, Access, and Inclusion to develop meaningful programs that address student mental health. Together, we have planned a Wellness Week, designed to provide students with practical tools to manage stress, build resilience, and prioritize their mental health. The week will feature a range of activities including mindfulness workshops, and open discussions with mental health professionals. In addition to Wellness Week, we’ve organized resource fairs where students can explore a variety of health services available both on and off-campus. As our university becomes increasingly diverse, we are also working toward establishing a peer support network to provide students with emotional support and guidance in a safe, confidential environment. Through these initiatives, our goal is to cultivate a campus culture that values mental health, encourages students to seek help when needed, and fosters an inclusive and supportive community.

What does leadership mean to you?

Leadership means making a significant impact on those around you by leading with faith and a deep belief in one’s own abilities. It’s about inspiring others to recognize their own potential and empowering them to make a difference. As a leader, I understand that my role is not just to guide, but to also develop and nurture future leaders who will carry on the work. These individuals will serve others with integrity, lead with purpose, and approach their tasks with intentionality, knowing the importance of making a positive and lasting impact.

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

In 2025, schools need to stay relevant by creating an engaging, authentic online presence. This means maintaining active social media accounts on platforms like Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, and LinkedIn to connect with students, alumni, and the community. Sharing a mix of campus events, student stories, faculty research, and community outreach will make the school feel more personal and relatable. It’s also important for schools to be transparent about their values and diversity initiatives, showing their commitment to inclusion. On top of that, schools should use modern digital tools—like video lectures, interactive online forums, and AI-powered resources—to enhance both in-person and online learning. Once students start their journey, schools need to provide solid research opportunities and pre-professional advisement to guide them toward career paths and hands-on experiences that set them up for success after graduation.

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

Watch The Yard is super important for Black students and college culture because it gives us a platform to share our voices and celebrate our achievements, especially for those of us at smaller or less-recognized schools that often get overlooked. It’s all about highlighting the traditions of Black greek life, student organizations, and the unique experiences we have on campus. A lot of times, the voices of students at underdog institutions don’t get the shine they deserve, but Watch The Yard makes sure we’re heard. It brings attention to the diverse ways Black students contribute to campus life, helps build connections, and gives us a space to be proud of who we are and where we come from. It’s a place where our stories matter and where we’re not forgotten.

What do you plan on doing after graduation?

After graduation, I plan to apply for medical school with the goal of becoming an emergency medicine physician. My leadership and growth within SGA have prepared me for this next step, as I’ve learned how to advocate for others, work under pressure, and lead with empathy—skills that will be invaluable in medicine. I’m passionate about making a difference in the lives of those who look like me and battle health disparities. Emergency medicine excites me because it allows me to provide immediate care while advocating for better healthcare access, especially for underserved communities. My mission is to reduce health inequities and make a lasting impact in the field.

We at Watch The Yard would like to commend Travales Woodard  for his work as the SGA president of Edward Waters University .

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