Royal Relief: 91st Miss Southern gives back

On August 27th, Southern University closed at 3:00pm due to the traumatic effects of Hurricane Ida. On Tuesday, August 31st, campus reopened and classes resumed. Although on-campus students were not deeply affected by the hurricane, residents that live nearby and in surrounding areas suffered dreadfully with power outages, wind damages, and flooded cars. Southern University’s SGA decided to extend themselves beyond the student body to give back to St. James Parish after days of suffering severe damages.
Jaden Johnson, the 91st Miss Southern, hosted a Hurricane Ida relief drive from September 8th to September 23rd. On September 24th, her and other members from SGA went to drop off all donations to St. James parish with the help of State Representative and alumni Ken Brass, activist Gary Chambers, and other state representatives.
Jaden says she was inspired to give back after seeing her home, parish and family suffer after the storm. “Seeing family, friends, or people I personally knew from my home parish and surrounding areas affected by Hurricane Ida inspired me to host my Hurricane Ida Relief Drive. There are many people still unable to return to their homes or unfortunately who won’t ever be able to return.” Members from the cabinet supported Jaden by broadcasting and promoting the event via social media.
Students and members also pitched in by donating. The turnout of the event took Jaden by surprise. “We received a lot of donations from students! I am so appreciative of everyone who donated and contributed to the success of this drive. I was amazed by how many donations we actually received and how many students participated. I can most definitely see myself doing something like this again. I am all for helping the community in the best way that I can. Stay tuned!’’
The cabinet traveled an hour out to deliver clothing and toiletry items to St. James parish residents and surrounding areas. Jayda Tatney, a junior majoring in early childhood education says her community was affected horribly by the storm.
“I admire the fact that SGA took the time out to focus on something so important, in the midst of focusing on our campus,’’ says Tia Mitchell, an alumni and resident of the community.
Donating to a cause such as this one meant that she got the opportunity to help a family recover. “I’m so happy Jaden decided to host an event like this because so many families were left with nothing after the storm. St. James parish suffered badly so I know those people were beyond grateful to see Southerns SGA go out to help them.” Miss Southern, and Student Government have shown students that they will continue to make an impact on Southern’s campus, and to other communities around.