In an effort to highlight the people who are leading colleges and universities across the nation, we at Watch The Yard reached out to Norfolk State University and did an interview with Indya Richards 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. Richards, who is majoring in Fashion/Graphic Design, is from Rochester, New York. She is a proud Spring 2022 initiate of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.

We interviewed Indya Richards, 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 thus far is how to have patience with all different personalities and also understanding how to lead with love yet integrity.

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

I decided to attend THE ILLUSTRIOUS NORFOLK UNIVERSITY because it gave me a full ride track. It was an HBCU I wanted to go to that was made by and for our people.

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

Norfolk State University molded me into the person I am now by teaching me how to be myself unapologetically,but still be ready for the real world at all times. Also by instilling in me the power to work alongside so many intelligent and powerful minded people

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?

Three of my initiatives for this school year are growing the campus networking system, uplifting our black excellence and entrepreneurs, lastly, enhancing student engagement on campus post-COVID. These will improve our Spartan community by bring the students closer to together as a whole and giving the students an outlet to get know the fellow Spartans and network around the campus and eventually the outside world.

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

The League of Legacies Administration is working on getting more mental health days and working with our upcoming mental health organizations to seek a deeper meaning of what the students need.

What does leadership mean to you?

Leadership means knowing how lead from the backseat and listen to your audience. Also being able to have connection with the people you lead and leading with your heart and mind.

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

I think schools need more active social media platforms and coverage along with accessibility to electronics to be more digital in the classroom.

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

I think it’s important because it highlights the best part of the HBCU communities and the great things black students are doing all over the country.

What do you plan on doing after graduation?

I plan on being working in graphic marketing and branding in football operations for the NFL or NBA.

We at Watch The Yard would like to commend Indya Richards for her work as the SGA president of Norfolk State University.

(Some of her answers were edited for clarity)

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