In an effort to highlight the people who are leading colleges and universities across the nation, we at Watch The Yard reached out to Southern University at New Orleans and did an interview with Ronnie Dyer 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. Dyer, who is majoring in Biology, is from New Orleans. He is a proud Spring 2020 initiate of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.

We interviewed Ronnie Dyer, and talked to him about his 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?

As SGA president the biggest thing I’ve learned is how to lead, act, and become more responsible. Being able to serve the student body comes with a lot of responsibility; therefore, I take my role very seriously by doing everything diligently and thoroughly. I am no longer responsible for myself but for people who believed in me enough to elect me.

What made you decide to attend Southern University at New Orleans for undergrad?

I decided to attend Southern University at New Orleans for my undergraduate studies because they gave me a second chance (and a sense of hope). They have allowed me to become a better version of myself by constantly encouraging me and showing me ways that contribute to my development and growth.

How has Southern University at New Orleans molded you into the person you are today?

Southern University at New Orleans has completely molded me into a stronger individual. I am stronger mentally, physically, and emotionally. I have become stronger because I have received so much support from both the students and the staff. I have learned to take failures and turn them into successes. I have learned to not settle for less because of my university. They have taught me that knowledge is power and I use that daily when making decisions not only for myself but for the students.

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?

My overall goal is to get students to attend face-to-face classes and have fun. This fall semester, I focused on renovating the office for future years to come while maintaining student issues with registration and questions. This spring, I plan to do two big picnics that the entire city is welcome to attend, so they can get a feeling of how much of a family Southern University at New Orleans really is.

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

We’ve actually partnered with Miss Southern University at New Orleans and the University’s counselor who produced a National Suicide prevention week to have an express yourself seminar called “Post-It-Note”, painting your feelings away with “Art with a Purpose” and assisting students with feeling comfortable speaking to a counselor through a seminar called “Things you should Know”.

What does leadership mean to you?

To me, leadership is the ability to guide and influence a group of individuals. A great leader must possess qualities that include but are not limited to, poise, honesty, integrity, selflessness, and perseverance.

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

To better represent schools in the new technological world, I believe schools must post engaging activities online to keep both current students and potential students interested within the school. Having social media accounts have allotted people to see what activities are being held on campus and what is offered at the University. However, having online activities might be a better way to keep students engaged.

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

I believe, “Watch The Yard,” is important to Black students and college culture because it allows others to see those in Greek life serving their community as well as empowering each other. It shines light on these organizations to let others know that they are actively working together to create a stronger bond within themselves as well as the community. Watch The Yard helps promote and motivate other individuals to become more active and successful. When students and others see their peers on the page it will motivate them to do positive things for the community.

What do you plan on doing after graduation?

After graduating, I plan on enrolling and attending medical school.

We at Watch The Yard would like to commend Ronnie Dyer for his work as the SGA president of Southern University at New Orleans.

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