Southern University students voiced growing concerns about classroom experiences and recent legislative discussions during the Student Government Association (SGA) Senate meeting. Several students expressed frustration with teaching methods, classroom engagement, and overall academic quality—especially within the School of Nursing. Junior Nursing major Valnea Smalls shared her disappointment, stating, “As a nursing major, the attitudes are off. Professors make mistakes and don’t acknowledge them. I feel like I just go to class to be there, not to actually learn.” She added that many students worry the program’s lack of accountability could put the nursing school’s accreditation at risk.
Junior Sociology major Joi Jones voiced similar frustrations, saying that students are wasting time in class reading straight from the book and that some required courses aren’t being offered, causing delays in graduation for many students. Senior Psychology major Torie Joseph mentioned ongoing facility issues in Blanks Hall, explaining that it’s often so cold that classmates bring blankets just to stay comfortable.
During the meeting, senators also reviewed two new bills addressing student leadership qualifications and representation within key campus organizations. Bill 1 proposed allowing groups such as the Human Jukebox/Dancing Dolls, Athletics/Sports and Greek Council to have appointed senators instead of requiring them to take SGA qualification exams. Supporters argued that this would ensure their representatives could fulfill their duties without conflicts related to practice or travel schedules. However, Junior Agricultural Science major, Jayln Christian raised concerns that appointed members may not know the constitution or understand how to interpret it. Senior Kamarie Stinson countered that by saying, “If they don’t understand something, they should go back and review it.” Students also questioned whether appointed leaders would still receive constitution training. Elections Commissioner Samjah Robinson clarified that appointed members would still be required to complete training, stating, “I won’t charge them with that—they’ll still receive the same instruction.” Despite the discussion, Bill 1 did not pass, receiving several “nay” votes.
The second proposal, Bill 2, focused on SGA leadership qualification standards and aimed to lower the passing score on the SGA leadership eligibility exam from 80% to 75%. Supporters said the change would make leadership roles more accessible to students who may not be strong test takers but still demonstrate leadership potential. Robinson supported the measure, explaining, “If we move it down, we give others a better chance to be leaders. That small percentage keeps some qualified students out.” He also noted that the Alma Mater, once a bonus question, is now a required part of the test. The Association for Women Students (AWS) Vice President, Paige Witherspoon suggested that the change could start with freshmen in the fall. However, Stinson countered stating, “Some current leaders don’t want it lowered because they feel it gives an advantage to others who didn’t put in the same effort.” The bill received mixed reactions and remains under review for possible revision in future Senate sessions.
