SGA president fears lack of student involvement

 Claflin University’s Student Government Association President Otiana Thompson.

Claflin University’s Student Government Association President Otiana Thompson is stressing the importance of student advocacy and the need for new student leaders as her administration comes to an end.

“I don’t want students to lose that advocacy spirit,” Thompson said, addressing her concerns during a news conference with student journalists on Tuesday, Jan. 24.

During her reign, Thompson aimed to prioritize mental health, improve campus-wide communication, and amplify student voices through her administration theme of U.N.I.T.Y.

U.N.I.T.Y. is an acronym for uniquely navigating institutional transformation for you, Thompson said.

Thompson’s goal is for the university to implement mental health days for staff and students.

“My initial goal for the school year was to have the administration prioritize mental health,” Thompson said.

Increasing student programs and activities will help students find balance, Thompson said.

SGA hosts town halls for students to talk about subjects such as mental health, academics and issues regarding the cafe; town halls that students barely show up to, Thompson said.

“You’re advocating for students when they’re not there for you,” Thompson said.

To combat the issue, Thompson started hosting town halls via Zoom. Although more students do show up, she is unsure of the effectiveness.

“Administrators have made it clear that they want students to advocate for themselves, in person,” Thompson said.

As she gets ready to graduate, Thompson urges students to get involved, ask questions and demand answers.

“Don’t just be a regular student,” Thompson said.

During the campaign for the position as SGA president, Thompson ran unopposed causing her to fear what is next.

“I’m very scared about what happens after me,” Thompson said.

She predicts that students will not stay engaged with SGA after her administration ends.

“All of that is going to be in vain if we don’t have new leaders to carry that torch,” Thompson said. “I won’t be the end.”

After graduating, Thompson plans to get her Master’s, and PhD.

“I’ve always had a dream of wanting to change policy,” Thompson said. “I want to change the way in which we value education.”

Thompson hopes to help change education policies in the Columbia area by becoming a senator.