By: Tanisha Robertson
Greetings Beauties !, This week you are in for a real treat. HBCU Beauty sat down with Albany State's Student Government Association's President Aliyah Johnson to get the incite from this Game-changing Beauty. Ms. Johnson and I spoke on relevant topics as well as her role as SGA President. Personally, Ms. Johnson has always been the epitome of lady leadership at Albany State. It was truly a treat to have you be featured in HBCU Beauty!
Basic intro: I’d like you to explain to readers why you chose Albany as well as your role in SGA? Also, give us a little background on you? Extracurricular activities and all?
Greetings I am Aliyah Johnson, a 21-year-old studying Psychology with aspirations of becoming an Industrial and Organizational Psychologist. On-campus I am a member of Anointed ASU Gospel Choir, Collegiate Women of Empowerment, Paraprofessionals Promoting Progression, and the National Society of Leadership and Success. I am also a board member of the We R.E.A.D.Y outreach ministry in Riviera Beach, FL. I chose Albany State because this institution has a foundation solely built on historic enrichment, and I wanted to be a part of such excellence. Albany State University also offers a border state waiver, which is a huge benefit for me and other students who aren’t from the state of Georgia. From Freshman Class President, Equity and Inclusion Senator, Senate Chair, and now SGA President I can attest that running this position was solely based on my purpose. It was my passion for being a servant leader, prayer, support from the student body, and vision to change the narrative at ASU by cultivating professionalism amongst all students that made me choose this position. I find joy in doing whatever it takes for the betterment of the student body. The former SGA Presidents inspired and poured into me, it would be robbery for me not to do the same for others.
Now let's get into it !, How do you feel about the black lives matter movement, and how can students embody it on their campus ??
I love the Black Lives Movement it’s empowering to see the unification amongst so many communities. It is disheartening that we have to protest in the middle of a global pandemic but this isn’t a new phenomenon. It’s the determination of projecting a message that we are tired and our lives matter, despite any stigma or stereotype created based on the color of our skin that speaks volumes. Students can only embody this on campus based on the atmosphere set by the student leaders. This is not a time for student leaders to dim their light and remain silent. This is the time to use every platform and speak up and out. Organize protests, host events, have these conversations around campus in and out of the classrooms so more students are educated and active. It would be great if SGA partners with the community leaders and come up with plans that can enforce that safety and comfortability for the students at our institutions.
How did COVID-19 affect campaigning and what are you looking forward to in the Fall semester?
The University System of Georgia suspended instruction for two weeks a few days before campaign week at Albany State. A week later they announced that we have to fully transition to online learning, which resulted in us campaigning virtually a few weeks later. Campaigning online saddened me but my campaign team and I adapted to allow my platform to reach the students. I am most excited about reuniting with the student body on campus for the Fall semester.
How do you feel about the representation of women in politics?
Our women are out fighting, losing sleep, organizing, planning, and speaking up about circumstances that are much larger than us in the same instance as men, yet they don’t get the same respect. I would love to see more women being supported as they step up in these positions. It is vital that people stop portraying that women are such emotional creatures that they can’t handle the capacity of affecting great change.
What would you say to a woman that is scared to get involved and become a campus leader?
God places the best things in life on the other side of fear. Don’t allow any opposition you face on campus detour you from making a positive impact. Be observant and mindful of what you do, someone is always watching. I would also tell them that campus leadership doesn’t just start nor end with SGA and Royal Court. Identify what you’re passionate about and put 100% in that area because you can make an impact on someone anywhere.
What is different about the Johnson Administration compared to previous administrations?
The Johnson Administration is different in comparison to others because we are working in the midst of a global pandemic and systemic racism. This administration is dedicated to enriching educational and personal development for students. Our desire is to fervently embody passionate leadership that not only speaks to but personifies a compassionate, transparent, and open space of excellence. This administration is also different because we will be opening Albany State’s first on-campus food pantry this upcoming semester.
I would like to thank our readers as well as Madam Prez as they call her at Albany State for sitting down with HBCU Beauty. Ms.Johnson you are truly an inspiration to those around you and ASU will surely be in good hands with this leading lady in charge!! Till next time stay Beautiful and remember change begins with you!
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