Orange Crush Festival

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Orange Crush Festival 2026

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GUIDING THE LEADERS OF THE FUTURE

“Bold Leaders. Bright Futures. Built by CRUSH.”

Make It

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Young Leaders

The Orange Crush Festival is more than a celebration — it’s a launchpad for the next generation of changemakers. Through Orange Crush University, Crush Label, Crush Coin, and our campus outreach programs, we empower students and young professionals with real-world leadership opportunities, creative platforms, and community-driven initiatives. Whether you’re an artist, activist, tech innovator, or entrepreneur — your leadership journey starts here.

Lead the Culture. Shape the Future.

“One Culture. Many Leaders. Real Impact.”

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Youth & Community Leadership Council

The Orange Crush Youth & Community Leadership Council (YCLC) brings together emerging voices and experienced leaders across education, politics, the arts, advocacy, and public service. This council provides strategic guidance, cultural insight, and civic leadership to shape the future of Orange Crush Festival, Orange Crush University, Crush Coin, Crush Label, and all affiliated initiatives.

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Council Purpose

  • Advise on key programs, policies, and partnerships across the Orange Crush ecosystem

  • Lead community engagement and youth-centered innovation initiatives

  • Support inclusive, grassroots solutions for social impact and sustainability

  • Bridge dialogue between the public, private, and nonprofit sectors

  • Ensure long-term cultural, educational, and economic equity in everything we do

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Who Should Join

  • Community organizers and educators

  • Student leaders and alumni

  • Elected officials and public servants

  • Entrepreneurs, artists, and advocates

  • Anyone committed to uplifting culture, community, and innovation

🎓 Council Member Benefits

  • Play an active role in festival planning, nonprofit strategy, and public partnerships

  • Recognition across Orange Crush platforms, media, and event materials

  • Access to exclusive events, strategy sessions, and speaking opportunities

  • Opportunities to mentor, invest in, and shape future leaders

  • Formal acknowledgment as a founding leader in a growing national movement

📩 How to Get Involved

We are currently building our 2025–2026 Council. If you’re passionate about leading from where you are — and shaping what’s next — we welcome your voice.

Learn More or Express Interest → OrangeCrushFestival.net/YCLC

One Culture. Many Leaders. Real Impact.

Make It

The Youth & Community Leadership Council is the heartbeat of the Orange Crush movement — a coalition of changemakers, creatives, public servants, and everyday visionaries united to shape the future of culture, equity, and impact. From classrooms to council chambers, from artists to elected officials, we believe leadership isn’t about position — it’s about purpose. This council ensures that the voices driving innovation, justice, and celebration across our communities are not only represented but empowered to lead boldly and collaboratively. Together, we guide strategy, amplify voices, and build the cultural future we deserve.

CRUSH MAGAZINE

STUDENT LEADERSHIP SPOTLIGHT

Spotlight: JonathAN Bing – Albany State University SGA President

Jonathan Bing is not just a student leader — he’s a force of nature at Albany State University. Currently serving as the 2025-2026 SGA President, Jonathan exemplifies a perfect balance of charisma, discipline, and strategic leadership. He was recently crowned Mister Albany State University, further solidifying his role as a campus icon and student advocate.

Jonathan’s commitment to student success extends far beyond titles. Whether representing his peers in boardrooms or spotlighting HBCU excellence on national platforms, his vision is always clear: to elevate, empower, and create impact.

A proud voice for student government, student engagement, and professional development, Jonathin Bing embodies what it means to lead with purpose. His presence in the CRUSH ecosystem will inspire students across Georgia and beyond to unlock their potential — and do it with excellence.

Recognitions & Roles

- 2025-2026 SGA President, Albany State University
- 2025 Mister Crimson & Cream Albany State University
- HBCU Student Advocate
- Emerging Leader in the CRUSH Ecosystem

CRUSH MAGAZINE

STUDENT LEADERSHIP SPOTLIGHT:

Zaylen Gates

Above the Pages – CRUSH MAGAZINE

Why SGA Presidents Matter at HBCUs

Student Government Association (SGA) Presidents are more than student representatives — they are the soul of campus leadership, especially at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). In institutions where history, identity, and innovation intersect, SGA Presidents play a transformative role in preserving culture, advocating for equity, and amplifying the collective voice of the student body.

They Advocate for the People

At HBCUs, student needs are dynamic, and the stakes are high. SGA Presidents serve as a direct line between students and administration, often addressing issues like housing, food insecurity, financial aid delays, and campus safety. Their advocacy ensures that policies reflect the lived realities of the students they serve.

They Preserve and Elevate Black Excellence

HBCUs are cultural powerhouses, and SGA Presidents are among their fiercest protectors. Through their leadership, they curate programs, uphold traditions, and ensure that the legacies of Black scholars, activists, and trailblazers are honored and evolved. They are not just students of history — they are shapers of it.

They Learn Real-Time Governance

Being an SGA President at an HBCU means managing budgets, negotiating with administrators, addressing press and policy, and navigating power dynamics — all in real time. These experiences prepare them for roles in government, law, entrepreneurship, and nonprofit leadership. It’s more than student government — it’s statecraft in motion.

They Mobilize Movements

SGA Presidents are organizers. They rally students to vote, protest, create, and lead. Whether it’s a local campus issue or a national movement, these leaders know how to bring people together, build consensus, and make change happen. Their work often serves as a blueprint for civic engagement far beyond college life.

Conclusion

In the ecosystem of HBCUs, the SGA President is one of the most powerful and influential figures on campus. Their presence is essential to progress. They are catalysts, defenders, innovators, and visionaries — and their leadership deserves both recognition and investment.

Student Spotlight: Zaylen Gates

At the heart of Savannah State University’s student life beats a leader who blends charisma, confidence, and commitment — Zaylen Gates, the 2025-2026 SGA President. Known for his approachable energy and strategic mindset, Zaylen represents a new generation of student leaders: bold, informed, and unafraid to raise the standard for what student government can truly achieve at an HBCU.

Campus Leadership with Purpose

As SGA President, Zaylen leads with intentionality. He’s focused on bringing students into the decision-making process, ensuring SSU policies reflect the real experiences of those on campus. From safety reforms to enhanced student engagement, Zaylen has made it his mission to ensure that every student’s concerns lead to action, not just talk.

An Influential Voice in the Tiger Nation

Zaylen’s leadership style resonates deeply with Savannah State’s rich legacy of activism and academic excellence. Whether he’s speaking at campus events or working behind the scenes, he brings authenticity and strength to every setting. His leadership embodies the values of respect, accountability, and unity.

Why Zaylen Matters in the CRUSH Ecosystem

As Savannah State plays a vital role in the Orange Crush University network, Zaylen stands out as a key bridge between students, innovation, and tradition. His commitment to cultural leadership, student advocacy, and institutional impact makes him a powerful voice in the statewide CRUSH movement. He not only represents Savannah State — he represents what’s possible when leadership is done with both heart and vision.

Zaylen Gates is more than just SGA President — he’s a movement leader, an agent of change, and a trusted voice for the next generation of HBCU scholars. With leaders like Zaylen, the future of student government — and the future of our communities — is in good hands.

CRUSH MAGAZINE

Student Spotlight: Victoria Smiley

Leadership is not always loud—it is focused, fearless, and deeply intentional. Victoria Smiley, the 2025–2026 Student Government Association (SGA) President at Clark Atlanta University, embodies that definition of leadership. Her presidency stands at the intersection of tradition and transformation, reinforcing the enduring value of student-led governance at one of the nation’s most iconic HBCUs.

Commanding with Purpose

Victoria approaches her role with the clarity of a seasoned strategist and the heart of a community builder. From campus policy to peer empowerment, her presidency is anchored in advocacy, access, and accountability. She leads with a sharp awareness of student needs and a grounded sense of responsibility to her peers and the university’s legacy.

Building Her Legacy at Clark Atlanta

Clark Atlanta University has long been a beacon of Black intellectual power and social change. As SGA President, Victoria sees herself not just as a representative, but as a steward of that legacy. She is committed to amplifying student voices, reinforcing academic equity, and sustaining the cultural pride that CAU students wear proudly.

SGA Presidents Are Essential to HBCU Progress

Victoria Smiley exemplifies why SGA Presidents at HBCUs are more than ceremonial figures. They are culture shapers, movement builders, and institutional influencers. Their work reflects the unique political and cultural context of Black colleges—where education and liberation are deeply connected.

A Role Model in the CRUSH Leadership Network

Victoria’s presence in the CRUSH Ecosystem solidifies her as a rising voice in student-centered leadership. Her thoughtful governance and bold vision make her a role model for students across the country who are stepping into leadership in spaces that demand both purpose and power.

With leaders like Victoria Smiley, the future of HBCUs remains both protected and propelled. She is proof that Black student leadership continues to be one of the most transformative forces in higher education.

CRUSH MAGAZINE

Why Spelman’s 84th SGA President Matters to the Culture and HBCU Impact

Student Spotlight: Cori’Anna White

There are leaders—and then there are visionaries. Cori’Anna White, the 84th SGA President of Spelman College, represents a new era of leadership rooted in integrity, excellence, and intentionality. Her presidency is not just a position of power—it’s a platform of purpose, centered on equity, cultural representation, and academic transformation.

Leading With Purpose at Spelman

As SGA President, Cori’Anna White carries the torch of one of the most respected student leadership roles in the HBCU community. She leads with poise and precision, committed to amplifying student voices, preserving Spelman’s legacy, and building new pathways for those who will follow. Her leadership is both visionary and tactical—grounded in real issues and powered by a deep connection to her peers.

A Champion of Black Womanhood and Legacy

Spelman College has long been a national symbol of Black excellence and womanhood. As the 84th SGA President, Cori’Anna continues that legacy while boldly expanding it. She champions issues that matter—mental health, policy transparency, civic engagement—and represents her student body with authenticity and grace. Her presidency speaks to the larger cultural force that Spelman women have always represented.

Shaping the CRUSH Ecosystem and Beyond

Cori’Anna’s work extends into the broader CRUSH Ecosystem, where she brings clarity, balance, and strategic thought leadership. She is a powerful advocate for elevating the presence and influence of HBCU women in leadership networks, media, and movement spaces. Her story is a reminder that when you invest in the leadership of Black women, you are investing in generational progress.

Cori’Anna White is more than a student leader—she is a symbol of Spelman’s living legacy. Her vision, courage, and unwavering commitment ensure that the future of HBCUs remains in powerful hands.

Spelman College has long stood at the pinnacle of HBCU excellence, serving as a national model for Black womanhood, scholarship, and leadership. With the inauguration of its 84th Student Government Association (SGA) President, the college continues its legacy of cultivating transformational leaders. In today’s sociopolitical climate, the importance of Spelman’s top student leader extends beyond campus—she represents the global face of Black excellence, strategic advocacy, and cultural legacy.

Upholding a Legacy of Leadership

Spelman’s SGA President does not simply hold a title—she carries a tradition. For over 140 years, Spelman has produced groundbreaking scholars, freedom fighters, public intellectuals, and industry leaders. The SGA presidency is a continuation of this lineage—leading not just for today’s students, but for generations yet to come.

Black Women Leading the Culture

The 84th SGA President leads during a time when the world is finally beginning to acknowledge the power of Black women. Her role at Spelman is emblematic of the leadership, emotional intelligence, and political clarity that Black women bring to the national table. She sets the tone for policy advocacy, campus transformation, and cultural celebration—not just at Spelman, but across all HBCUs.

Symbolism Meets Strategy

The position comes with intense visibility and equally intense responsibility. Spelman’s SGA President is often called upon to speak on behalf of students in high-level meetings, forums, and national interviews. But behind the spotlight is a strategist focused on tuition reform, health equity, career pipelines, and alumni engagement—turning student concerns into institutional change.

A Central Pillar in the HBCU Movement

As a leading women's HBCU, Spelman's SGA President often becomes a thought leader for the broader HBCU community. Her presence is essential in conversations about gender equity, academic reform, and intercollegiate unity. She helps shape how HBCUs are perceived, preserved, and pushed forward into the future.

Conclusion

The 84th SGA President of Spelman College is not just a campus leader—she is a cultural force. Her leadership bridges the past, present, and future of Black excellence. As HBCUs face new challenges and opportunities, voices like hers remind us why investing in student leadership is an investment in the future of our communities

CRUSH MAGAZINE

🔥 STUDENT LEADER SPOTLIGHT

💫 Livvy Nicole | @iamlivvynicole

SCAD Student • Model • Creative Visionary • Youth Advocate

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CREATIVITY WITH CONVICTION

Livvy Nicole, a standout student at Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD), is blazing a trail across the worlds of fashion, art, wellness, and youth empowerment. Known for her signature grace and grounded presence, she commands not just runways—but real conversations.

Livvy isn’t waiting for doors to open. She’s building new ones—fusing her modeling work with community engagement and unapologetic advocacy for self-love, visibility, and power in Black womanhood.

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BEYOND THE CAMERA

While her editorial images captivate thousands, Livvy’s work off-camera is just as compelling:

  • Hosted youth confidence workshops for local high school girls in Savannah

  • Leads campus dialogues on colorism, body image, and inclusivity in creative industries

  • Launched her own visual storytelling platform, where she curates interviews with underrepresented creatives in fashion and tech

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HER IMPACT IN NUMBERS

  • 18+ modeling credits with brands from Atlanta to New York

  • 3 student-led campaigns focused on mental health and self-worth

  • 1,000+ followers inspired daily by her affirmations and style tips

  • Featured in 2 short films promoting Black fashion history & identity

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HER ORANGE CRUSH LEGACY

Livvy represents the CRUSH mission in every way:

Creative. Resilient. Unapologetic. Strategic. Hopeful.

As a SCAD ambassador and student influencer, she will be part of Orange Crush University’s 2025–2026 Student Advisory Network—helping plan fashion showcases, youth panels, and campus tours centered around representation and social impact.

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LIVVY’S MESSAGE TO OTHER YOUNG LEADERS

“If they say you’re ‘too much,’ stay louder. If they don’t see your light, shine harder. You were made to be seen. You don’t need to fit in when you were born to stand out.”

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QUICK FACTS

  • Major: Fashion Marketing & Management

  • Hometown: Atlanta, GA

  • Campus Role: Model Collective Co-Director

  • Passions: Healing through creativity, Afrofuturist aesthetics, media justice

  • Dream Collaboration: Rihanna’s Fenty, and a global body-positivity docuseries

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COMING SOON: CRUSH x LIVVY COLLAB

Watch for Livvy’s upcoming features in:

  • CRUSH University Tour (Fall 2025)

  • HBCU Influencer Showcase

  • Crush Magazine Fall Style Issue

@iamlivvynicole is a SCAD’28 student & CRUSH model who is also a Business Owner & Custom Clothing Designer (@SaintIvy)

Featuring: @iamlivvynicole

SCAD | Model • Creative Director • Advocate

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“More than a look. It’s a legacy.”

Savannah-based student and creative powerhouse @iamlivvynicole is redefining what it means to lead with style, soul, and substance. As a standout talent at the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD), Livvy is using her voice and platform to shift narratives and open doors—not just for herself, but for the entire creative community.

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Who She Is

  • Major: Fashion Marketing & Management

  • Hometown: Atlanta, GA

  • Affiliations: SCAD Black Student Union, Campus Model Collective

  • Instagram: @iamlivvynicole

  • Style Influence: Empowered femininity meets editorial edge

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Why She Matters

Livvy isn’t just walking the runway—she’s building her own. As a model, mentor, and student leader, she brings a fierce sense of self, professionalism, and pride to every room she enters. Her advocacy includes:

  • Uplifting young Black creators in fashion and media

  • Promoting mental health awareness and self-love in the modeling industry

  • Collaborating with local and national brands that align with her values

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What’s Next

From curating shoots to leading student panels, Livvy is preparing for a career that’s equal parts business and beauty. She plans to launch a digital series focused on Black women in creative leadership and continues to serve as a voice for inclusion across campus.

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Crushing Forward

As a rising force in both fashion and higher education, @iamlivvynicole embodies the Orange Crush Festival mission: amplify culture, empower youth, and celebrate excellence. We’re proud to spotlight her as a CRUSH Student Leader and style innovator.

🗣️ “I want girls to know they don’t have to change to be powerful. They can be soft and bold, beautiful and brilliant—exactly as they are.” – Livvy


CRUSH MAGAZINE

🔊 STUDENT LEADER SPOTLIGHT - @iam.cozzy

🎧 DJ Cozzyy – The Beat Behind the Movement

Albany State University | CRUSH DJ | Official Tour DJ for RaqBaby

When it comes to merging student energy, cultural impact, and high-powered music, @iam.cozzyy is leading from the front. As a proud representative of Albany State University and a vital piece of the Orange Crush Festival sound experience, Cozzyy is more than a DJ—he’s a youth influencer, creative entrepreneur, and voice of the streets turned strategy.

🏆 Role in the CRUSH Ecosystem:

  • Official CRUSH DJ – Commanding festival stages and student events with curated sets that amplify culture, connect crowds, and keep the energy unshakable.

  • Youth Engagement Partner – A musical bridge between CRUSH University and Gen Z audiences through performance, personality, and presence.

  • Albany State Connector – Representing HBCU student life with authenticity, grind, and leadership.

🎤 National Spotlight:

Cozzyy isn’t just rocking campus shows—he’s commanding national attention as the official DJ for rising artist RaqBaby, traveling across stages from Atlanta to beyond, bringing the South’s rawest energy to sold-out crowds.

“The music moves the people, and I move with purpose. I represent Albany, the youth, and CRUSH with every set I drop.”

— @iam.cozzyy

🌍 Why He’s CRUSH-Worthy:

  • 🔥 Cultural Curator: Blending street sound with student consciousness.

  • 🎓 Student Leader: Active voice for HBCU visibility, talent, and pride.

  • 💼 Tour DJ & Entrepreneur: Balancing music, education, and business with discipline.

📸 Featured:

  • CRUSH DJ Booth Activations

  • On Tour w/ RaqBaby

  • Youth Events & Community Engagement

  • Crush Magazine Sound & Style Features

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STUDENT & ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT

Matthew “MJ” Gresham

📍 Savannah State University Alumnus | 🎧 Official CRUSH DJ

📲 IG: @mj.da.kid

🔥 Title & Roles:

  • Director of CRUSH Education & Faculty Engagement

  • Head of Performance Arts Programming

  • Student Engagement Leader – Orange Crush University

  • Founder, Underground SAV ENT

  • Official DJ & Ambassador – Orange Crush Festival

🎤 About MJ:

Matthew “MJ” Gresham is the pulse of student culture and creative leadership across the Orange Crush movement. A proud Savannah State University alumnus and founder of Underground SAV ENT, MJ is dedicated to uplifting emerging talent, empowering student voices, and uniting the next generation of creators through music, performance, and education.

At the core of CRUSH’s faculty and student engagement efforts, MJ bridges the gap between higher education and entertainment. He leads CRUSH Education Initiatives, organizing everything from campus tours and faculty collaborations to student-led panels, artist showcases, and HBCU workshops. As an Official CRUSH DJ, his sound sets the vibe at every major event — from Tybee Island to campus festivals across Georgia.

🎯 Impact Highlights:

✅ Co-led faculty engagement at SSU and regional HBCUs

✅ Organized artist showcases spotlighting student talent

✅ Built direct bridges between professors, performers, and civic leaders

✅ Created platforms for student-led brands and emerging artists to perform and grow

✅ Developed mentorship pipelines across Orange Crush University programs