By Aron Smith
Jackson State University’s SGA President Jason Johnson ended Black History Month by attending an exclusive reception hosted by Vice President Kamala Harris and her husband, Second Gentleman Douglas Craig Emhoff. Held on Thursday, Feb. 29, at the vice president’s residence, the reception honored and commemorated student leaders from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) student leaders.
Representatives from nearly 25 SGAs from prominent HBCUs attended the event, including Alabama State University, Florida A&M University, Howard University, and Morehouse College.
“I was very honored to meet a current U.S. vice president who thinks about HBCU students. Knowing that she’s a graduate of the same type of HBCU institution that we all came from meant the world to me,” said Johnson.
The day began at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building with a policy council presentation focused on enhancing the efficiency of new FASFA student loan policies on college campuses. According to NerdWallet, due to the FAFSA Simplification Act signed into law in late 2020, the form now contains far fewer questions, a direct data exchange with the IRS, and a new formula that could impact student’s financial aid packages.
Panel discussions featuring speakers from the White House, covering topics such as science and technology, space, STEM, and workforce policy. Speakers also provided insights into the advantages and disadvantages of implementing artificial intelligence (AI) on college campuses and its implications for the future.
Guest speakers included notable celebrities such as actor and producer Terrence Jenkins and actress Keshia Knight Pulliam. They offered insightful professional development advice. The event concluded with an electrifying step show by Morgan State University’s Greek life.
After the program, Johnson and other attendees proceeded to the vice president’s residence, where Harris shared her initial experiences in the White House and offered valuable advice on advocating for voices on campuses.
As a JSU student leader, Johnson has devoted numerous hours traveling and networking on behalf of the institution. He credits the opportunities and vast experiences he gained at Jackson State for growing his interpersonal skills. The Michigan native also said he has forged strong bonds with a supportive circle of friends.
“I always strive to present myself in the best light, with a warm smile, and ensure that I look and speak confidently. Even when addressing challenging issues, I maintain a positive and respectful demeanor, aiming for constructive dialogue and mutual understanding,” he shared. “It’s crucial to approach discussions openly and tactfully to help foster a receptive environment where ideas can be effectively communicated and considered.”
Johnson shared that his main takeaway from the Black History event was recognizing the unpredictability of life’s opportunities and the importance of seizing them. Furthermore, he stressed the significance of not taking any opportunity for granted, highlighting the possibility of unexpected chances to connect with influential individuals.
“Never feel like no one is looking out for you because many people do that even when you don’t know it. People such as Vice President Kamala Harris are trying to figure out how they can best serve you,” he said.