In an effort to highlight the people who are leading colleges and universities across the nation, we at Watch The Yard reached out to North Carolina A&T State University and did an interview with Jasmine Amaniampong the 2023-2024 Student Government Association president.
The position of SGA president is a highly respected role and there is a special pride that one takes in being elected by their peers to lead. Amaniampong, who is majoring in Economics, is from Concord, NC. She is a proud Spring 2023 initiate of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
We interviewed Jasmine Amaniampong, and talked to her about her position, goals, future and what it means to hold this type of leadership position in 2023-2024.
Read the full interview below.
What is the biggest thing you’ve learned as an SGA president so far?
As SGA President, I’ve learned that students and administration on campus are truly drawn to the art of communication, transparency, and advocacy. When student leaders are able to properly update their student body, listen to them, and provide them with solutions it truly makes an impact on the campus environment.
What made you decide to attend North Carolina A&T for undergrad?
I decided to attend A&T because of the familial vibe of the institution! Hospitality is so real on this campus & I also received the Cheatham-White Scholarship.
Photo Credit: @alexusbphoto
How has North Carolina A&T molded you into the person you are today?
My experience at A&T has really taught me the importance of doing EVERYTHING with passion. I’ve accomplished all of my goals and been so involved because I’ve been genuinely passionate about everything I’ve done.
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?
Here are just a few things I’ve implemented:
Walking Office Hours – an opportunity for the Ujima Administration E-Board members to meet students where they are at during typical SGA office hours
Monthly IG E-Board Updates – keeping the student body informed with all that SGA is doing
Blue & Gold Table Talk semesterly implementation – a former SGA event that has now been implemented bi-annually for students to have round table discussions with some of the highest administration on campus
IG story Recap of Board of Trustee Meetings & any important info circulating campus
Naming: “Ujima Administration” – encouraging unity, collective work, and responsibility within the SGA Admin this year
These are just a few initiatives I’ve hit on that I believe have helped with approachability, organization, and the spreading of credible information on our campus.
How is your SGA administration/school currently working on attending to the mental health of students?
Currently, my Vice President of Internal Affairs, Jordan Lightfoot, is working on an initiative that would allow for students to pick 2 additional mental health days per a semester that would count as an excused absence. A&T has already implemented two permanent universal mental health days from a previous SGA Administration.
What does leadership mean to you?
Leadership means sacrifice, passion, approachability, and advocacy. In order to be an effective leader, it is important to be guided by these traits as they help you communicate effectively while making real impact. Being a liaison between administration and students is very fulfilling and refreshing when possessing these qualities.
Photo Credit: @designedby.ejf
We now live in a digital world, what do you think schools need to do to represent themselves online in 2023/2024?
Our institution is very social media focused, almost all orgs have social media pages. However, something that all entities of the campus can do better (students & admin) is showing ALL aspects of the student life, not just the “negative” or partying —my institution is far from just that.
Why do you think Watch The Yard is important to Black students and college culture?
Watch The Yard is great for representation of HBCU students!!
What do you plan on doing after graduation?
To be determined!
We at Watch The Yard would like to commend Jasmine Amaniampong for her work as the SGA president of North Carolina A&T.
