Above the Pages – CRUSH MAGAZINE Part 2 Why SGA Presidents Matter at HBCUs

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.