Leadership Highlight: Fort Valley State University’s Student Government President Laila Humphries

In an effort to highlight the people who are leading colleges and universities across the nation, we at Watch The Yard reached out to Fort Valley State University  and did an interview with Laila Humphries, 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. Laila Humphries, who is majoring in Psychology , is from Covington, Georgia and is a proud Spring 2023 initiate of Zeta Phi Beta.

We interviewed Laila Humphries 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?

Serving as SGA President is an experience that has shown me how influential student leadership is on the campus environment. You don’t truly grasp the weight of the position until you are in it. My main takeaway from my time as SGA President is that change does not happen overnight. During your term, you will not be able to change the entire university but , as long as you’ve made a difference, you’ve done your job. To my fellow SGA Presidents and those to come; I want to remind you all to remain humble, keep God at the center of all you do,  lean on your team, and ask for help. This job is not easy, but you don’t have to do it alone.

What made you decide to attend Fort Valley State University for undergrad?

I always say I didn’t choose Fort Valley, Fort Valley chose me. After just one visit, I knew this was the university for me. The energy on campus is unmatched, and the tight-knit, family-oriented community makes it truly special. At FVSU, students are encouraged to embrace their authentic selves and supported by staff and peers that genuinely care about their goals and aspirations. Student leadership is strong, creating an environment where we uplift and advocate for one another. Beyond that, FVSU provides a rich legacy of academic excellence, innovation, and opportunity, preparing students to thrive. Rooted in a rich history and the unique culture that defines HBCUs, this university continues to inspire and uplift generation after generation.

How has Fort Valley State University  molded you into the person you are today?

My time at Fort Valley State University has been nothing short of transformative. It is here that I found my purpose and discovered the immense potential within me. Over the past four years, FVSU has taught me to be resilient and shaped me into the leader I am today. From my involvement in Student Government to joining my sorority, Fort Valley has provided me with the platform to explore my passions and channel my experiences into opportunities. FVSU’s commitment to empowering students aligns with its motto, “Empower the Possible,” and continues to fuel my growth and success.

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?

Bridging the gap between all campus entities has been my main goal throughout my term. Whether it’s making the Student Government Association more accessible to the student body or keeping students informed about conversations with senior administration, I have prided myself on being transparent and open with the individuals I represent. Initiatives such as Open Office Hours, Student-led Panels, and the SGA Student Concern Platform have helped my administration and I accomplish this goal. Looking ahead, the Legislative Branch, led by my Vice President, plans to host an event solely based on adressing student concerns and drafting a resolution to present to the University President and his cabinet. Additionally, we’re launching an initiative on Sexual Health and promoting the visibility of smaller majors while providing career opportunities. These initiatives aim to enhance the student experience and strengthen our campus and community.

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

As SGA President and a psychology major, mental health is a core priority for my administration and I. To address this, I created the “Let Go with Laila” initiative, providing a positive space for students and staff to release stress and anxiety. SGA also maintains an open-door policy through office hours, offering students that extra support when needed. In addition, our campus is home to several student organizations dedicated to mental health, all working collaboratively to cultivate a supportive and caring environment. The university further strengthens this commitment by providing comprehensive mental wellness resources, highlighting the critical importance of mental well-being for all students.

What does leadership mean to you?

To me, leadership is not just a character trait but a lifestyle. To lead is to be selfless and genuine. It’s about doing the right thing, even when it goes unnoticed, and turning a passion for helping others into meaningful change. Leadership involves taking accountability for your student body and institution, inspiring others to serve, and leaving a legacy of advocacy and positive impact. A true leader sees the potential in others and helps bring out the leader within them.

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

In today’s world, universities must fully embrace the growing role of digital technology. They should actively market themselves on popular social media platforms, engage with prospective students, and provide easily accessible content. Additionally, universities can use their online presence to create dynamic, interactive materials that showcase their strengths, highlight campus life, and foster a sense of community. Investing in updated, user-friendly websites and mobile apps will simplify access to academic resources, admissions, and student services. By digitizing key resources, universities can enhance accessibility and convenience. With the right digital strategies, institutions can effectively share their story, connect with students, and strengthen their brand, broadening their reach and leaving lasting impressions.

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

Watch the Yard celebrates Black culture in a positive and empowering way. In a world where there are so many media outlets that are defacing the image of the black community, Watch the Yard is a refreshing and positive space for black students to see someone that looks like them achieving remarkable things. Whether it’s highlighting Greek Life or spotlighting our Historical Black Colleges and Universities, this platform uplifts and showcases the beauty of Black excellence. Even this series of recognizing Black SGA Presidents is another example of Watch the Yard’s continued dedication to uplifting the black community.

What do you plan on doing after graduation?

After graduation, I plan to attend graduate school to earn my Master’s degree in Experimental Psychology, with a focus on teaching. My goal is to give back to young Black students in the same way my professors at my HBCU have poured into me. Additionally, I aim to establish an organization dedicated to the advancement of Black children in homeschooling, ensuring they have the resources and support they need to thrive. My experiences as SGA President and a student at Fort Valley State University have deepened my understanding of the power of encouragement and the importance of uplifting those who need help the most.

We at Watch The Yard would like to commend Laila Humphries for her work as the SGA president of Fort Valley State University.

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