Southern University’s bi-annual Presidential Address serves as reminder of the dedication and leadership of Southern University’s student government and the enduring commitment to fostering positive change on campus.
Student Government Association (SGA) President, Kennedy Orr, along with other class presidents, unveiled updates on their accomplishments and upcoming goals to the student body. Held during the 2024 Homecoming week, the address not only celebrated the university’s achievements but also provided a critical platform for student leaders to outline initiatives to continue improving student life. The timing of this event during Homecoming underscores its significance, as it allows alumni, current students, and faculty to witness firsthand the growth and direction of the student body’s leadership.
The address was led by SGA President Kennedy Orr, senior Agricultural Business major, who highlighted her commitment to serving the university with integrity and transparency. “Since being elected by my peers, it continues to be my mission to serve our university by way of maintaining the highest standards and being open and honest,” Orr said in her opening remarks. She candidly addressed key challenges the university has faced, particularly in areas like housing, admissions, finances, and academics, noting her ongoing conversations with administration to address these pressing issues.
“Coming into this position, I knew that the ship was sailing in the wrong direction, and it required a leader ready to push the boundaries in order to see a positive change,” she said, pointing to her determination. Orr also reflected on her personal growth as a leader, admitting that in previous roles, she had sometimes stayed quiet out of fear of conflict. “But now that I am here, all of that is out the window. While I was claiming to be the voice of advocacy for others, I still was finding mine. Now I do not hesitate to share my thoughts on any matter.”
Next on stage was SGA Vice President Alton Holloway, a Senior Computer Science major, who discussed the responsibility of running the Senate, encouraging students to resort to them as a resource. Chief Justice Kharis Taylor, a Senior English major, focused on new innovative ways that the student body will continue to uphold the SGA Constitution. To follow, Men’s Federation President Ja’Mon Gracin and Association for Women Students President Auriyonnie Lopez emphasized creating inclusive spaces for student engagement and development.
The importance of mentorship and guidance was also a central theme of the event. Nala Anderson-Hill, Assistant Director of Student Leadership and Engagement, shared her thoughts on watching the students she advises grow into strong leaders. “It’s so interesting being on this side. Because what’s so great is I’ve been there and I’ve done that, so I know the challenges that they are going through… it helps me because I get to self-reflect and I’m able to be patient with them,” she said. Anderson-Hill, a former SGA leader herself, highlighted the unique connection she has with the students, understanding the pressures of leadership and providing support as they navigate those challenges.
In the audience, Gia Orr, lobbyist for the state of Illinois fawns over her daughter’s accomplishments. Gia spoke of her immense pride in Kennedy and her ability to overcome adversity. “Our pride for her… I have never posted Southern the way I have posted for four years. When she told me she wanted to take this position on, I told her, ‘the world is your oyster and no grit, no pearl.'” Orr emphasized how Kennedy’s upbringing in Chicago, a city known for its “grit,” prepared her to lead with resilience at SU.
As the 80th SGA President in the history of Southern University, Kennedy Orr expressed her gratitude to her fellow presidents, cabinet members, and her mentors for their tireless work to keep the university moving forward. In closing, she thanked her mother for her unwavering support.
