SGA president: Panthers prosper through different stages

Kamille Whaley speaks at the matriculation convocation. (Panther photo by Kenneth White III)

SGA President Kamille Whaley made a personal connection with students, comparing the classes of the student body to the life cycle of a panther.

During the Sept. 23 matriculation day convocation to kick off the academic year, Dean of Students Dr. Arthur E. Doctor installed Whaley as the 2025-26 Student Government Association leader.

“Panthers are powerful, resilient and fearless. But even the strongest panther starts somewhere. Just like us, it goes through different stages, each one preparing it for the next,” said Whaley, a senior marketing major.

To the freshman, she said, “It's okay to feel overwhelmed. You're exactly where you're supposed to be.

“Class of 2029, you are the cubs just entering the jungle,” she said. “Everything feels new and sometimes overwhelming. ... This is your time to learn, to ask questions, to explore every path in front of you. Don’t be afraid to stumble, because every step builds the strength you’ll need later.”

Whaley emphasized to sophomores, “You're learning who you are and how you want to leave your mark.

“Class of 2028, you are the toddler cubs. … This is the stage where you start stretching, growing and realizing that you can’t stay comfortable if you want to keep climbing. Lean into discomfort, because that's where growth really happens.”

Whaley stressed to the class of 2027, “It's your chance to adapt to new challenges and sharpen your focus.

“Class of 2027, you are the adult panthers. … This is the time where internships, leadership roles and the future really start to hit. .... Never settle into being comfortable because Panthers don't thrive in stillness.” she said.

Whaley ended the life cycle by reminding her senior class, “Every late night, every challenge and every success has been preparing us for this moment.

“Class of 2026, we are the full-grown panthers. … As we prepare to leave Claflin, let's not just think about what's next, but also honor what we’ve built here. Let's take these lessons, friendship and experiences with us as tools for the journey ahead,” she said.

Whaley tied the life cycle of panthers into college life, reminding students that they all start somewhere and grow throughout their matriculation

Whaley left the Claflin Panthers with a seed of inspiration.

“As we step into this new year, let’s do it with grace, excellence and unity. Let’s show that collectively we are not only students at Claflin University, but we are panthers, and panthers don’t just survive, they conquer,” she said. “May this bring you all growth, purpose and lasting panther pride.”