The Panther

The Student Government Association would like to congratulate all of its newly elected members, and we send our thanks to all of those who had the valor and initiative to run for office. Please don't be discouraged, because you can still make a change or represent your class, college, or university without a position in SGA.

To those who are interested, there are still positions available in the Student Government Association. There will be a list of available positions posted in the SGA office.

I would like to thank those students who accompanied the university representatives to Jena, La. You did an excellent job in representing your university. I hope that you understand how impacting your presence was at that historical event.

I want to give a special thanks to Ms. Claudia Munoz, who was one of the most instrumental facilitators of this trip. I would also like to thank the Department of Student Activities and Leadership, Tyra Metoyer, director of university relations, Frank Jackson, mayor of Prairie View, Judge DeWayne Charleston, Lettie Raab, Dr. Kelvin Kirby, the Social Work Club, & Williams Chicken.

Call to Leadership

When emotions are high and the buzz is strong, African Americans will adhere to the cause, but sometimes we fail to follow up with our commitments. I was hesitant about making this statement, but I felt that it was necessary.

Example: In 2003, 5,000 students marched in the rain to the courthouse in Hempstead to protest for their rights to vote in Waller County. Out of those 5,000 students who marched, only 800 students voted. (Those students who did not vote were just following suit, and were not truly committed to the cause).

Far too often we tend to follow a few truly dedicated and passionate individuals who relay information, facilitate discussion, and orchestrate demonstrations. Imagine if those individuals became more proactive in the planning stage, we would dominate in every aspect. I think that this university has great leadership, but it only exists within a few individuals, and right now we need collective leadership. Once again, I say none of this to inveigh anyone, but to encourage and enlighten the students about the power that they possess, but don't use.

I charge all of you right now to realize your intrinsic value and know that when we ask for leaders, we are talking about you.

Help us make a change... join SGA!!!

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