SSGA Transitional Retreat
Spelman College Student Government Association (SSGA) had a transitional retreat for outgoing and incoming members on Saturday, April 25, 2015.
During the retreat, students had the opportunity to bond with one another through activities. The SSGA 2015-2016 administration learned more about the roles that they will be stepping into this upcoming fall. In addition, students were reminded that the purpose of SSGA is to serve as the bridge between the student body and the administration.
During the retreat, students had the opportunity to bond with one another through activities. The SSGA 2015-2016 administration learned more about the roles that they will be stepping into this upcoming fall. In addition, students were reminded that the purpose of SSGA is to serve as the bridge between the student body and the administration.
Student Leadership Banquet and Induction Ceremony
Spelman College’s Office of Student Life and Engagement held a Student Leadership and Induction Ceremony for students involved in Spelman College Student Government Association (SSGA), Class Council, Miss Spelman, and PULSE Programming Board on Thursday, April 23 2015.
Current SSGA President, Mary Pickard, passed the gavel to 2015-2016 SSGA President, Zarinah Mustafa, who will officially start her term this fall. In addition, new members of SSGA, Class Council, Miss Spelman, and PULSE were inducted into their respective organizations.
Students had the opportunity to engage in conversation with one another and hear reflections from outgoing members of the various organizations. Members of faculty and staff were recognized for their dedication to the Spelman community.
Current SSGA President, Mary Pickard, passed the gavel to 2015-2016 SSGA President, Zarinah Mustafa, who will officially start her term this fall. In addition, new members of SSGA, Class Council, Miss Spelman, and PULSE were inducted into their respective organizations.
Students had the opportunity to engage in conversation with one another and hear reflections from outgoing members of the various organizations. Members of faculty and staff were recognized for their dedication to the Spelman community.
SSGA Hosts a Town Hall Event
Spelman College Student Government Association (SSGA) hosted a town hall event on Tuesday, April 7, 2015.
Students assembled in Cosby Auditorium to hear from members of the 2014-2015 administration about what they accomplished during the school year. Some of these events included, Alcohol Awareness Week, Breast Cancer Walk for Awareness, and a Voter Registration Drive. In addition, selectees for the 2015-2016 SSGA administration were in attendance to answer any questions and concerns from students.
Students assembled in Cosby Auditorium to hear from members of the 2014-2015 administration about what they accomplished during the school year. Some of these events included, Alcohol Awareness Week, Breast Cancer Walk for Awareness, and a Voter Registration Drive. In addition, selectees for the 2015-2016 SSGA administration were in attendance to answer any questions and concerns from students.
SSGA Improves Voter Turnout in 2015 Election
Spelman College Student Government Association released election results for its 2015-2016 administration as well as class council positions on Tuesday, March 2, 2015. Voter turnout increased significantly since last year’s election with 38.39 percent of the student body submitting ballots electronically. The results are as follows:
2015-2016 SSGA Administration:
2015-2016 SSGA Administration:
- SGA President: Zarinah Mustafa
- SGA Secretary of Academic Affairs: Ashley Reid
- SGA Secretary of Student Affairs: Alaya Martin
- SGA Secretary of Enrollment Management: Taylor Harrell
- SGA Secretary of Institutional Advancement: Imani Dixon
- Sophomore Class Council President: Taylor Debnam
- Junior Class Council President: Amber Hobbs
- Senior Class Council President: Neah Evering
SSGA Holds Speeches and Class Council Debates
Spelman College Student Government Association (SSGA) held class council speeches and debates on Feb. 23, 2015 in Sisters Chapel. SSGA speeches and debates were held the following day in the same location.
Students from various classifications and majors campaigned for several weeks leading up to the speeches and debates for positions ranging from SSGA president to class council president.
Students in attendance were able to ask candidates questions regarding their vision for the upcoming school year within their position. Elections were held on Thursday, Feb. 26, 2015 until Monday, Mar. 2, 2015. Students who voted were able to bring confirmation of their submissions to Market Friday and receive a cupcake from SSGA on Friday, Feb. 27, 2015.
Students from various classifications and majors campaigned for several weeks leading up to the speeches and debates for positions ranging from SSGA president to class council president.
Students in attendance were able to ask candidates questions regarding their vision for the upcoming school year within their position. Elections were held on Thursday, Feb. 26, 2015 until Monday, Mar. 2, 2015. Students who voted were able to bring confirmation of their submissions to Market Friday and receive a cupcake from SSGA on Friday, Feb. 27, 2015.
SSGA President Participates in Law Enforcement Forum
The South Metro Atlanta Chapter of 100 Black Men of America, Inc. and The Ben Hill United Methodist Church (BHUMC) under the direction of Pastor Byron E. Thomas and First Lady DuWanna Thomas hosted an event on Jan. 14, 2015 regarding legal justice and law enforcement.
Student leaders from higher education including Student Government Association presidents from Spelman College, Morehouse College, and Clark Atlanta University participated. Spelman College Student Government Association President, Mary Pickard C’2015 reflects on her experience at the forum.
“I was honored to sit on this panel and be a part of this outstanding event. 100 Black Men and BHUMC brought the community together, but more importantly young adults were able to learn how to deal with the police in an educated manner,” Pickard said. “It was an interactive event that was beneficial for all age groups. This was a necessary conversation, and I'm sure it is only the beginning of many.”
The conversation also included The Atlanta Police Department (APD) Deputy Chief, CJ Davis, whose in charge of Strategy and Special Projects for APD. Political representative, Councilwoman Keisha Lance Bottoms, Joyce Morley, Ed.D., and hundreds of concerned citizens also attended the event.
Authors of When the Cops Come Knockin’, Travis and Trinity Townsend, gave a 30-minute presentation on how to interact with police and citizens rights.
Student leaders from higher education including Student Government Association presidents from Spelman College, Morehouse College, and Clark Atlanta University participated. Spelman College Student Government Association President, Mary Pickard C’2015 reflects on her experience at the forum.
“I was honored to sit on this panel and be a part of this outstanding event. 100 Black Men and BHUMC brought the community together, but more importantly young adults were able to learn how to deal with the police in an educated manner,” Pickard said. “It was an interactive event that was beneficial for all age groups. This was a necessary conversation, and I'm sure it is only the beginning of many.”
The conversation also included The Atlanta Police Department (APD) Deputy Chief, CJ Davis, whose in charge of Strategy and Special Projects for APD. Political representative, Councilwoman Keisha Lance Bottoms, Joyce Morley, Ed.D., and hundreds of concerned citizens also attended the event.
Authors of When the Cops Come Knockin’, Travis and Trinity Townsend, gave a 30-minute presentation on how to interact with police and citizens rights.
SSGA Hosts #SpelmanWalksForBreastCancer Event
Spelman College’s Student Government Association (SSGA) hosted a breast cancer walk to honor people who have been affected by the disease on Oct. 3, 2014. SSGA Secretary of Institutional Advancement, Jordan Watters C’2015, elaborates on the importance of the event.
“As a predominantly African American women's institution, I felt it was imperative that we recognize October as Breast Cancer Awareness month since we are effected the most,” Watters said. “It was my goal to not only inform the Spelman community about Breast Cancer, but also to be interactive in our support.
“Therefore, I planned the walk in memory of women who lost their battle, in honor of women who are survivors, and to encourage women who have been recently diagnosed and/or are going through treatment.”
Members of the Spelman community walked around the new oval in shirts that said #SpelmanWalksForAwareness on the back. Proceeds raised from the event were donated to the Susan G. Komen For The Cure Foundation.
“As a predominantly African American women's institution, I felt it was imperative that we recognize October as Breast Cancer Awareness month since we are effected the most,” Watters said. “It was my goal to not only inform the Spelman community about Breast Cancer, but also to be interactive in our support.
“Therefore, I planned the walk in memory of women who lost their battle, in honor of women who are survivors, and to encourage women who have been recently diagnosed and/or are going through treatment.”
Members of the Spelman community walked around the new oval in shirts that said #SpelmanWalksForAwareness on the back. Proceeds raised from the event were donated to the Susan G. Komen For The Cure Foundation.
SSGA Hosts a Voter Registration Drive
With Midterm Elections around the corner, Spelman College’s Student Government Association (SSGA) recognized the importance of making sure students were informed about the upcoming political process on Oct. 3, 2014. SSGA Vice-President, Jasmine Payne C’2015, organized the drive, which included special guests such as Keshia Knight Pulliam C’2001 as participants in the event.
“I think the students were impacted by gaining greater information about the candidates, where to vote, and about the unspoken reasons of why it is important to vote,” Payne said. “I also think Ms. Pulliam's presence encouraged them to consider voting as their civic duty and as a crucial part of developing as a global leader.”
Held in the lower level of the Manley College Center on Spelman’s campus, the voter registration drive was supported by students, faculty, and staff.
“I think the students were impacted by gaining greater information about the candidates, where to vote, and about the unspoken reasons of why it is important to vote,” Payne said. “I also think Ms. Pulliam's presence encouraged them to consider voting as their civic duty and as a crucial part of developing as a global leader.”
Held in the lower level of the Manley College Center on Spelman’s campus, the voter registration drive was supported by students, faculty, and staff.
SSGA Serves in the Cafeteria
Spelman College’s Student Government Association spent time assisting the student body in the Alma Upshaw Dining Hall on September 10, 2014. From the hours of 11:30am-12:00pm, various members of SSGA swiped ID cards, served food, and sat with students.
Emphasizing the importance of “sisters serving sisters,” SSGA had the opportunity to show their peers that their concerns about the College truly do matter.
SSGA President, Mary Pickard C’2015, expands on the significance of SSGA working in the cafeteria.
“Working in the cafeteria will give SSGA the exposure we need so students will be able to recognize their SSGA members and feel comfortable approaching us with ideas, problems, concerns, etc,” Pickard said.
SSGA will continue to serve their Spelman sisters in the cafeteria throughout the year.
Emphasizing the importance of “sisters serving sisters,” SSGA had the opportunity to show their peers that their concerns about the College truly do matter.
SSGA President, Mary Pickard C’2015, expands on the significance of SSGA working in the cafeteria.
“Working in the cafeteria will give SSGA the exposure we need so students will be able to recognize their SSGA members and feel comfortable approaching us with ideas, problems, concerns, etc,” Pickard said.
SSGA will continue to serve their Spelman sisters in the cafeteria throughout the year.
SSGA'S Response to Dr. Tatum's Recent Announcement Regarding Her Retirement
Greetings Spelman Sisters,
In 2002, Dr. Beverly Daniel Tatum was appointed as the ninth president of our beloved Spelman College. Ever since, her works have catapulted Spelman to heights and measures unimaginable, establishing the institution as one of the leading liberal arts colleges in the nation. In fact, in 2003, the College was named among the top 100 Best Liberal Arts Colleges by US News and World Report. Then in their first year of ranking the undergraduate education at historically black colleges in 2008, US News and World Report ranked Spelman as the No.1 Historically Black College or University, a designation we still hold. This and many more achievements would not have been possible without the vision, direction and passion of Dr. Tatum.
Dr. Tatum jump started Spelman as one of the top sustainable HBCUs in the nation, which led to the College being recognized by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency with the Green Key Award for environmental efforts. “When we think about preparing students for the future - preparing them to be ethical leaders – certainly an awareness of sustainability is critical and an important part of what we mean when we say, ‘A Choice to Change the World,’” said Dr. Tatum in an interview with The Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education. Furthermore, in 2006, Spelman broke ground on site of the future “green” residence hall, now known as the Suites. The Suites is the first and only residence hall in the Atlanta University Center to be built with eco-friendly features and architectural attributes, and the first LEED-certified residence hall at any HBCU. This encompasses the great vision Dr. Tatum has for ensuring that Spelman will continue to lead by example while choosing to change and sustain the word.
Among Dr. Tatum’s greatest achievements during her tenure at Spelman is the $150 million goal she set for the College’s 2009 fundraising campaign. The campaign recently ended, and Dr. Tatum not only met, but exceeded her goal, raising $157.8 million. That level of support from alumnae, students, faculty, staff and friends of the College is a testament to how many people truly believe that Spelman is producing the world’s brightest and best women of color, which would not have been possible without a dedicated leader.
Dr. Tatum will be greatly missed, but her legacy as a dynamic craftsman of the Spelman College experience will always be remembered. We will always love and cherish Dr. Tatum for not only what she has done for our institution, but more importantly, we will miss the care and compassion she has continuously shown our student body. As she enters in to a new chapter of her life, we wish Dr. Tatum nothing but success and blessings. And we look forward to an exciting final year of her leadership.
Sisterly,
Your 73rd Student Government Association
In 2002, Dr. Beverly Daniel Tatum was appointed as the ninth president of our beloved Spelman College. Ever since, her works have catapulted Spelman to heights and measures unimaginable, establishing the institution as one of the leading liberal arts colleges in the nation. In fact, in 2003, the College was named among the top 100 Best Liberal Arts Colleges by US News and World Report. Then in their first year of ranking the undergraduate education at historically black colleges in 2008, US News and World Report ranked Spelman as the No.1 Historically Black College or University, a designation we still hold. This and many more achievements would not have been possible without the vision, direction and passion of Dr. Tatum.
Dr. Tatum jump started Spelman as one of the top sustainable HBCUs in the nation, which led to the College being recognized by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency with the Green Key Award for environmental efforts. “When we think about preparing students for the future - preparing them to be ethical leaders – certainly an awareness of sustainability is critical and an important part of what we mean when we say, ‘A Choice to Change the World,’” said Dr. Tatum in an interview with The Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education. Furthermore, in 2006, Spelman broke ground on site of the future “green” residence hall, now known as the Suites. The Suites is the first and only residence hall in the Atlanta University Center to be built with eco-friendly features and architectural attributes, and the first LEED-certified residence hall at any HBCU. This encompasses the great vision Dr. Tatum has for ensuring that Spelman will continue to lead by example while choosing to change and sustain the word.
Among Dr. Tatum’s greatest achievements during her tenure at Spelman is the $150 million goal she set for the College’s 2009 fundraising campaign. The campaign recently ended, and Dr. Tatum not only met, but exceeded her goal, raising $157.8 million. That level of support from alumnae, students, faculty, staff and friends of the College is a testament to how many people truly believe that Spelman is producing the world’s brightest and best women of color, which would not have been possible without a dedicated leader.
Dr. Tatum will be greatly missed, but her legacy as a dynamic craftsman of the Spelman College experience will always be remembered. We will always love and cherish Dr. Tatum for not only what she has done for our institution, but more importantly, we will miss the care and compassion she has continuously shown our student body. As she enters in to a new chapter of her life, we wish Dr. Tatum nothing but success and blessings. And we look forward to an exciting final year of her leadership.
Sisterly,
Your 73rd Student Government Association
2014 HBCU Top 30 Under 30 Features Spelman and SGA's Very Own!
HBCU Buzz is the leading source of news for Historically Black Colleges and Universities. Every year, 30 students are honored with the title of, "Top 30 Under 30" among all HBCUs nationwide. These students have not only achieved academic success but success within their local community, state, nation and even worldwide, while under the tender age of 30. We are sure nothing less than success will transpire for these soon to be prominent leaders within today's society. Among these 30 are three of our very own Spelmanites who have proven to be exceptional in all that they have embarked upon.
It is no surprise that HBCU Buzz has declared SGA's gem, Mary Pickard a Top HBCU Student as her scholarship, service, dedication to leadership and excellence speaks for itself. As our fearless leader, Mary Pickard is the embodiment of not just a Spelman woman but a well-rounded woman who expects and produces nothing but the best. Her GPA is not only a testament to this, as she boasts a remarkable 3.9 major GPA and 3.88 cumulative GPA, but it is her commitment to the Spelman standards and to the continued advancement of our wonderful college. She truly does it all; on campus she is involved in the Morehouse Business Association, Residence Hall Association, SKIRTS- Sisters Keeping It Real Through Service, Phi Alpha Delta, Pre Law Fraternity, a Goldman Sachs Spelman Leader, and a recently inducted member of the National Society for Leadership and Success. She carries this dedication to leadership to the community as a literacy tutor at Gigi's Playhouse, a center for children with Downs Syndrome, a mentor with YES! Atlanta, and the Georgia Firefighters' Burn Foundation. Mary is a prime example of overcoming obstacles and following your passions as an accident in October, nearly halted her course work for the remainder of the year. However, she used her stumbling blocks as stepping stones, finishing her work and on course for graduation in 2015. With over 400 service hours since her time at Spelman, and outstanding accomplishments, Mary is well-deserving of the title 2014-2015 Spelman Student Government Association but more importantly a role model to all that have the privilege to know and love her!
Capitalizing off of the nickname "Farrinheit" she received at a young age by classmates, Farrin Hymon is soon to take the world of entertainment and entertainment blogging by storm. It was not unusual that Farrin would become an entertainment blogger and entrepreneur as from a young age, Farrin was surrounded by music of all genres but more notably Hip-Hop as her father was an entrepreneur working as a celebrity bodyguard. Farrin is a 2014 graduate of Spelman College, earning her degree in Psychology. Not only has she achieved this milestone but founded Farrinheit Entertainment & Media (FEM) her own full service company concentrating on creative directing, media training, public relations, production, entertainment and generating positive media buzz around her clients. This exceptional woman has not only covered the "411" but has become HBCU Buzz's new "411" by making her passions her trade!
Breagan Ricks has brought a new definition to the word "Fun" for nearly 200 students in over ten schools in three cities and abroad! Fueled by her passion for science and community service, Breagan has made quite an impact. FunLab, Inc. is Breagan's non-profit organization which aims to teach minority and disadvantaged children basic scientific concepts through enjoyable laboratory experiments. Breagan is a senior biology major on the pre-med track at Spelman College and has numerous achievements, namely the Bonner Community Service Scholar, a member of the Health Careers Program, and Alpha Lambda Delta First Year Honor Society. Her endeavors are not only known to HBCU Buzz but they caught the attention of the President of Spelman College and its Board of Trustees as she was the first student ever to obtain the Local Community Service Award. Ebony Magazine has also featured Breagan in their May 2014 issue as a Hero Next Door. Breagan's future is nothing but bright as her service, scholarship, and passions will send her to unimaginable heights!
SSGA President Advocates for Improved Communication Across Campus
September 6, 2012
When reflecting on her journey to become Spelman Student Government Association president, Anita Foster, C’2013, recognizes that her classmates played an essential role. “They are what kept me on the stage,” said the first-generation college student from Washington, D.C. Foster explains that she has always been one to “go against the grain” and think innovatively [...]
Source: Inside Spelman
When reflecting on her journey to become Spelman Student Government Association president, Anita Foster, C’2013, recognizes that her classmates played an essential role. “They are what kept me on the stage,” said the first-generation college student from Washington, D.C. Foster explains that she has always been one to “go against the grain” and think innovatively [...]
Source: Inside Spelman
New Student Leaders Listen to Constituents and Refocus SSGA
April 5, 2012
Cheers rang throughout the lower Manley concourse while anxious students crowded around to hear the announcement of the names of the 2012-2013 Spelman Student Government Association and class council members. Junior international studies major Anita Foster was selected SSGA president. Although apprehensive throughout most of the election, Foster felt an extreme sense of accomplishment when [...]
Source: Inside Spelman
Cheers rang throughout the lower Manley concourse while anxious students crowded around to hear the announcement of the names of the 2012-2013 Spelman Student Government Association and class council members. Junior international studies major Anita Foster was selected SSGA president. Although apprehensive throughout most of the election, Foster felt an extreme sense of accomplishment when [...]
Source: Inside Spelman
Justice for Trayvon Martin Rally in Atlanta with Spelman's SGA President SpeakingMarch 23, 2012
Taylor Allen, Student Government President at Spelman College, addresses the thousands gathered on the steps of the Georgia State Capitol building. Ms. Allen graduated with honors in English. Her speech gives a good reflection of her excellence and her passion reflects the feeling of all who were gathered there. Source: http://atlanta.cbslocal.com |
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