In an effort to highlight the people who are leading colleges and universities across the nation, we at Watch The Yard reached out to Fayetteville State University and did an interview with Maya Martin the 2022-2023 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. Martin, who is majoring in English Lang. & Lit. – Pre-Law & Paralegal Studies, is from Charlotte, NC.

We interviewed Maya Martin, and talked to her about her position, goals, future and what it means to hold this type of leadership position in 2022-2023.

Read the full interview below.

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

The biggest thing I’ve learned as SGA President is to be intentional in every decision, appointment, and connection I make. As I am  not just representing myself, but also the thousands of scholars who chose me to represent them in a variety of venues where they are frequently denied entry.

What made you decide to attend Fayetteville State University for undergrad?

For a number of reasons, I chose to attend the ILLUSTRIOUS Fayetteville State University for undergrad. First and foremost, I wanted to attend a Historically Black College and University wherein my character and the quality of my work would be judged rather than the color of my skin. FSU provided this and an intimate learning environment in which students will improve academically and socially. As the second oldest public institution in North Carolina, the campus has a rich history that drew me in even more and led me to make one of the most important decisions of my life and enroll.

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

Fayetteville State University’s interpersonal development has shaped me into the person I am today. Every success I make is honored at “Family State University.” I can walk into any space feeling prepared because of the valuable training and constants checking in by those who whole heartedly support me.

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 academic school year, I have led and am organizing a number of initiatives. Reactivation of inactive Honor Societies is one of them. Development of leadership initiatives for all academic colleges. Reestablishing contact between alumni, faculty, staff, and current students. Bronco ID initiatives encouraging students to carry their student ID with them at all times. Dress for Success College initiatives that provide more professional attire alternatives for men on campus. By bridging the gap between the university and the community, these initiatives will benefit the institution and the surrounding community. While actively striving to ensure that students have the finest resources and experience possible to continue their outstanding work after graduation.

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

Fayetteville State University and the Student Government Association have made student mental health a key focus. SGA has continued to collaborate with campus mental health organizations to ensure that resources are widely available. Similarly, FSU has enlarged its Counseling and Personal Development Center. Providing students with in-person and online resources 24 hours a day, seven days a week, including holidays.

What does leadership mean to you?

To me, leadership entails proudly representing, advocating for, and assisting others for the good of the community and society.

We now live in a digital world, what do you think schools need to do to represent themselves online in 2022/2023?

Schools should seek advice from skilled members of the student body who understand social media and make them social media ambassadors for the university. As a result, the school will be able to represent itself online in 2022/2023.

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

Watch The Yard is important to Black students and college culture in that it empowers the next generation by documenting legacy, and recognizing their efforts. While doing so, they are demonstrating to Black youngsters that they, too, can accomplish greatness.

What do you plan on doing after graduation?

I plan to attend law school and obtain a Juris Doctorate post graduation. My ultimate goal is to pursue a career in law and become the first African American Female Governor of North Carolina.

We at Watch The Yard would like to commend Maya Martin for her work as the SGA president of Fayetteville State University.

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