In an effort to highlight the people who are leading colleges and universities across the nation, we at Watch The Yard reached out to Tennessee State University and did an interview with Derrell Taylor the 2023-2024 Student Government Association president.

The position of SGA president is a highly respected role and there is a special pride that one takes in being elected by their peers to lead. Taylor, who is majoring in Business Administration – Management, is from Memphis, TN.

We interviewed Derrell Taylor, and talked to him about his position, goals, future and what it means to hold this type of leadership position in 2023-2024.

Read the full interview below.

What is the biggest thing you’ve learned as an SGA president so far?

I believed the biggest thing I’ve learned so far is to understand the value in of being a man of the people. The relationships I have gained, the opportunities I have had to mentor and build younger students, and the opportunity to represent the student body daily has taught me so much about what it takes to lead and serve a large number of individuals. Being a man of the people means more than throwing exciting events or presenting empowering speeches. It is the day to day interactions with others that truly influence and impact the next person.

What made you decide to attend Tennessee State University for undergrad?

I chose to attend Tennessee State University because it chose me first. As I began to consider different colleges, I found myself attracted to schools that I felt valued community, career development, and culture. It was on my agenda to attend an HBCU, but coming from a predominantly black area (Memphis, TN), I wanted to ensure I would be in an atmosphere that was designed to embrace who I am and who I desired to become as I matriculate through college. Upon high school graduation, I was fortunate enough to receive a full ride scholarship from Tennessee State University. It meant a lot to me to be invested into by TSU; an investment that would allow me to attend college without placing a financial burden on my family. This was one of the best decisions I could have ever made pertaining to my academic advancement.

How has Tennessee State University molded you into the person you are today?

Tennessee State University has molded me into the person I am today by its ability to build me up as a young man, scholar, and servant to the community. Since my arrival to TSU, a countless amount of people have personally invested in me and have demonstrated the impact of attending an HBCU in general. Without Tennessee State, I would not understand the importance of networking and leadership development. From the “HBCU intro and elevator pitch” to understanding how to connect and follow up with your constituents, I have grown so much professionally since my time at TSU. My HBCU has also molded my character by pushing and preparing me to compete globally. It was the career counselors and professors inside the classroom who have pushed me to apply for internships and attend career fairs. This has provided me with so many opportunities, including 2 internships. Finally, the culture at TSU has molded me by allowing me to embrace my potential due to the inclusive and motivating atmosphere.

What specific initiatives have you headed up this year (or are planning) and how do you think they will improve the school and surrounding community?

During my administration, we have been intentional on addressing specific student concerns and areas of growth on our campus. We have been able to establish student committees that function alongside SGA. This allows students without leadership positions to develop direct relationships with student leaders in order to collaborate on the decisions or initiatives developed. The committees are: Student Concern, Civic Engagement, and DE&I. My administration has also developed an appreciation & development project for our marching band, the “Aristocrat of Bands”. This was a great opportunity to highlight the hardworking members of our band by awarding paraphernalia, and developing a 5 year plan to revamp their practice fields. Lastly, my administration has been focused on addressing the $2.1 Billion dollar underfunding of our institution. This has motivated us to take the lead on resolving the nation-wide issue of HBCUs being underinvested in.

How is your SGA administration/school currently working on attending to the mental health of students?

The 83rd SGA Administration has issued a response to the mental health concerns by meeting with University administration to improve the university counseling center with a goal of fostering collaboration between this office and the student body more consistently. We were able to produce a week full of activities catered to understanding how to tend to your mental health. The Mental Health Week, “Tiger Wellness Week”, began with an event that discussed understanding your emotions and properly releasing them. The event featured a presentation from a university counselor and included making custom stress balls and personal journals. This event also included a yoga session. The remaining events throughout included a walk/run, breakfast, movie & relaxation night, and much more! The university is also working on relocating and expanding our counseling center to include more services. We, as students, are proud that TSU is committed to providing mental health resources for our campus.

What does leadership mean to you?

Leadership is defined to me as the impact that is made on others. Management and leadership mean two completely different things to me. Leadership is the ability to trust your team and motivate them to continue raising the standard or expectation of the project. Leadership includes mentoring, lifting up, and being a role model figure to the ones you serve. Finally, being a leader means bracing yourself to ride the highs and lows of your team, taking responsibility for the shortcomings, but giving credit to your team for the victories.

We now live in a digital world, what do you think schools need to do to represent themselves online in 2023/2024?

I believe schools should receive more resources to further receive education on the advancements and development of technology. Institutions should also implement a plan of action for understanding the world of AI and social media.

Why do you think Watch The Yard is important to Black students and college culture?

I think Watch The Yard is important to Black students because it is necessary to be aware of the activities happing across HBCUs. It is essential to keep a network between each institution so that we are growing as a family. This applies to students, organizations, alumni, faculty, etc.

What do you plan on doing after graduation?

I plan on exploring public advocacy. This will provide me the opportunities to continue advocating for HBCU and the issues of our communities.

We at Watch The Yard would like to commend Derrell Taylor for his work as the SGA president of Tennessee State University.

Share this on Facebook and help us highlight Derrell Taylor and Tennessee State University.

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Marvel Studios has just dropped an electrifying new trailer for its much-anticipated feature film, “Deadpool & Wolverine.” Directed by Shawn Levy, the film promises an epic team-up between two of Marvel’s most beloved characters, played by Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman.

The star-studded cast also includes Emma Corrin, Morena Baccarin, Rob Delaney, Leslie Uggams, Karan Soni, and Matthew Macfadyen, ensuring fans are in for a treat with this action-packed adventure.

Behind the scenes, the film boasts an impressive lineup of producers, including Kevin Feige, Ryan Reynolds, Shawn Levy, and Lauren Shuler Donner. Executive producers for the project include Louis D’Esposito, Wendy Jacobson, Mary McLaglen, Josh McLaglen, Rhett Reese, Paul Wernick, George Dewey, and Simon Kinberg.

Penned by a team of talented writers including Ryan Reynolds, Rhett Reese, Paul Wernick, Zeb Wells, and Shawn Levy, “Deadpool & Wolverine” is set to deliver a story that is both thrilling and hilarious.

Fans won’t have to wait too long to catch “Deadpool & Wolverine” in action, as the film is slated for release on July 26. With the promise of the “ultimate team-up throwdown,” Marvel Studios is gearing up to deliver a blockbuster hit that is sure to be a summer sensation. Stay tuned for more updates as the countdown to July 26 begins!

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The 51st annual Daytime Emmy nominations are here!

On Monday, the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences announced details of the awards ceremony, which honors the best “work in a variety of categories, including daytime dramas, talk shows, instructional programming, hosting, culinary, and legal/courtroom programs.”

The Daytime Talk series category is stacked with some of the biggest shows in the genre, with “The View,” “Tamron Hall,” “The Jennifer Hudson Show,” and “Turning The Tables with Robin Roberts” all getting nominations.

In the Legal/Courtroom Program category, hits like “Justice For The People with Judge Milian,” “We The People with Judge Lauren Lake,” “Hot Bench” and others all earned nods. Allen Media Group, which owns theGrio.com, produces “Justice For The People with Judge Milian” and “We The People with Judge Lauren Lake.”

The Arts and Popular Culture Program category celebrates Oprah Winfrey‘s “Oprah and ‘The Color Purple’ Journey,” in which the media mogul takes viewers behind the scenes of the 2023 musical adaptation of “The Color Purple.” Programs like “Harlem Globetrotters: Play It Forward” (NBC) and “African Queens: Njinga” (Netflix) were recognized under the Educational and Informational category.

The Daytime Emmys will be presented live at 8 p.m. EDT on June 7 in Los Angeles and air on CBS (delayed in the Pacific time zone). The show will also be available via livestream and on-demand from Paramount+.

Check out this year’s nominations in the main Daytime Emmy categories, below,; the complete list is here.

DAYTIME DRAMA SERIES

The Bay
Popstar! TV

The Bold and the Beautiful
CBS

Days of our Lives
Peacock

General Hospital
ABC

Neighbours
Amazon Freevee

The Young and the Restless
CBS

DAYTIME TALK SERIES

The Jennifer Hudson Show
Syndicated

The Kelly Clarkson Show
Syndicated

Tamron Hall
Syndicated

Turning The Tables with Robin Roberts
Disney+

The View
ABC

ENTERTAINMENT NEWS SERIES

Access Hollywood
Syndicated

Entertainment Tonight
Syndicated

Extra
Syndicated

CULINARY SERIES

Be My Guest with Ina Garten
Food Network

Family Dinner
Magnolia Network

Selena + Chef: Home for the Holidays
Food Network

Valerie’s Home Cooking
Food Network

What Am I Eating? with Zooey Deschanel
Max

LEGAL/COURTROOM PROGRAM

Hot Bench
Syndicated

Judy Justice
Amazon Freevee

Justice For The People with Judge Milian
Syndicated

The People’s Court
Syndicated

We The People with Judge Lauren Lake
Syndicated

Recommended Stories

TRAVEL, ADVENTURE AND NATURE PROGRAM

Animals Up Close with Bertie Gregory
National Geographic

Extraordinary Birder with Christian Cooper
National Geographic

Guy’s All-American Road Trip
Food Network

Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom Protecting the Wild
NBC

Street Somm
Tastemade

INSTRUCTIONAL/HOW-TO PROGRAM

Fixer to Fabulous
HGTV

Fixer Upper: The Hotel
Magnolia Network

Hack My Home
Netflix

Martha Gardens
Roku

Windy City Rehab
HGTV

LIFESTYLE PROGRAM

Downey’s Dream Cars
Max

George to the Rescue
NBC

Growing Floret
Magnolia Network

Homegrown
Magnolia Network

Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones
Netflix

ARTS AND POPULAR CULTURE PROGRAM

Billion Dollar Babies: The True Story of the Cabbage Patch Kids
Vimeo

King of Collectibles: The Goldin Touch
Netflix

Off Script With The Hollywood Reporter
SundanceTV

Oprah and “The Color Purple” Journey
Max

Variety Studio: Actors on Actors
PBS

Working in the Theatre
AmericanTheatreWing.org

EDUCATIONAL AND INFORMATIONAL PROGRAM

African Queens: Njinga
Netflix

Harlem Globetrotters: Play It Forward
NBC

Ireland Made with Love
PBS

Leveling Lincoln
PBS

What Really Happened: America’s Wild
National Geographic

DAYTIME SPECIAL

Culture Quest: Ukraine
PBS

Disney Parks Magical Christmas Day Parade
ABC

97th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
NBC

Recipe for Change: Celebrating Black Men
SpringHill

Unexpected
Hulu

SHORT FORM PROGRAM

Catalyst
LinkedIn News

The Dads
Netflix

Hollywood Atelier: Rob Pickens
The Hollywood Reporter

How Una Pizza Napoletana Became the No.1 Ranked Pizza in the World
Eater

Temple of Film: 100 Years of the Egyptian Theatre
Netflix

In an effort to highlight the people who are leading colleges and universities across the nation, we at Watch The Yard reached out to Jackson State University and did an interview with Jason Johnson the 2023-2024 Student Government Association president.

The position of SGA president is a highly respected role and there is a special pride that one takes in being elected by their peers to lead. Johnson, who is majoring in Electrical Engineering, is from Belleville. He is a proud Spring 2022 initiate of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.

We interviewed Jason Johnson, and talked to him about his position, goals, future and what it means to hold this type of leadership position in 2023-2024.

Read the full interview below.

What is the biggest thing you’ve learned as an SGA president so far?

I have really learned that your greatest work and accomplishments happen because of those who you decide to surround yourself with. I am blessed to have a great circle of student leaders in my current administration who are all ready and always eager to help wherever need be, which always makes the work and my job a whole lot easier. It’s truly impossible to do everything yourself no matter how good you may be so keeping that in mind and asking for help when needed has done me a lot of good in my time as president.

What made you decide to attend Jackson State University for undergrad?

I decided to attend Jackson State really off a whim honestly. I visited the campus during winter break in my senior year of High School just weeks before Covid-19 closed schools and I really didn’t see too much of the campus. Coming all the way from Michigan it really came down to having a strong feeling that Jackson State was for me. I knew I wanted to go to HBCU and Jackson State was a school where I knew I would get all the resources I needed as an Electrical Engineering student.

How has Jackson State University molded you into the person you are today?

Attending Jackson State University has really made me into the man I am today. Through attending JSU I have gained the tools and confidence to go out into the world confidently upon graduation and believe without a doubt that I will be successful. I feel like in attending college you are sent off knowing what you are supposed to as far as getting your education, but it is through actually being there alone that you have no choice but to learn how to really navigate by yourself. I have faced many hardships and challenges in college but I have always found a way to prevail by using my resources whether it be my religion, my friends and family, or even simply believing in myself. If given the opportunity even through the hardships I would do it all over again, because Jackson State taught me how to always trust in myself at the end of the day.

What specific initiatives have you headed up this year (or are planning) and how do you think they will improve the school and surrounding community?

This year at Jackson State some of the main initiatives we have been focusing on include voter registration, mental health, and overall communication. Each of which have been backed by plenty of events, conversations, and activities both on and off campus. Over the school year we have have had the privilege of partnering with our Jackson State NAACP chapter to prepare students to vote. We have also hosted many events targeting mental health including partnering with our University’s Latasha Norman Center for Counseling Services. Through constant networking and conversation with students and faculty we have spent the year trying to find better ways to get message across to students and reach them the most effectively as well.

How is your SGA administration/school currently working on attending to the mental health of students?

Our SGA Administration are all very aware of the importance of mental health and the necessity for addressing it at our college campus. So much so that we have hosted various mental health targeting events including coloring book exercises, yoga days, and other events including guest speakers giving students the chance to relax and focus on their mental health. Another way our SGA administration has targeted mental health at our university is by working with our University president to bring several mental health days to our campus ceasing all university functions including class in order to give students a chance to focus on themself for the day. We understand that every student faces challenges on a day to day basis, but strongly encourage everyone to take the time they need when it comes to their mental health.

What does leadership mean to you?

Leadership to me is not only setting yourself up to be the best example for your university and community, but also your ability to learn and listen to your community at all times. It is taking the stand—being ready to handle whatever is being thrown your way with little to no hesitation. It is being the shoulder others lean onto. It is the ability to listen to everyone’s concerns but make the decision that best suits the community in its entirety. Leadership is to have courage—in yourself, in your abilities, and in your community.

We now live in a digital world, what do you think schools need to do to represent themselves online in 2023/2024?

Every day the world seems to become more and more digital focused. Nowadays not having a digital presence can almost put people at a disadvantage especially when it comes to schools and universities. Some ways I feel school’s need to represent themselves when it come to being digital include:

Interactive Websites: Websites should provide information about the school’s mission, programs, faculty, and facilities. It should also include features such as virtual tours, interactive maps, and multimedia content to engage visitors.

Social Media Presence: Schools should always actively maintain profiles on popular social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn. These platforms can be used to share updates, achievements, and interact with current and prospective students, parents, alumni, and the community.

Online Learning Platforms: Especially since Covid-19 online learning tools have become a necessary feature ever school has the option of, schools should invest in learning management systems in order to support remote education. These platforms should provide access to course materials, assignments, assessments, and communication tools for both students and teachers.

Digital Marketing: Schools should lastly utilize digital marketing techniques such as content marketing, email marketing, and online advertising to reach their target audience and attract prospective students. This can include promoting open houses, special events, and academic programs through targeted online campaigns.

In today’s digital age, finding the most effective ways to interact and use the internet to make an impact on our campus is vital. By using these strategies, schools can effectively represent themselves online in the digital world and create a positive image for everyone to view.

Why do you think Watch The Yard is important to Black students and college culture?

I think Watch The Yard is so important to Black students and college culture in general because of all the positivity it spreads. I’ve been following Watch The Yard since before I got to college and been truly been amazed of all the great work taking place at these HBCUs across America, some of which I would have never heard about without Watch The Yard. The outlet gives students like me the platform to show off our hard work and achievements while also being the resource providing meaningful information to thousands. I’m thankful for Watch The Yard deciding to feature myself along with my other SGA Presidents and I can not wait to read more great articles from them in the future.

What do you plan on doing after graduation?

Right now I am blessed to have several job offers on the table in the field of Electrical Engineering, but I am still deciding on a definite position. My goal is the begin my career and then go back graduate school to further my education.

We at Watch The Yard would like to commend Jason Johnson for his work as the SGA president of Jackson State University.

Share this on Facebook and help us highlight Jason Johnson and Jackson State University.

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A24’s gripping drama “THE IRON CLAW,” directed by Sean Durkin, is set to make its streaming debut on HBO Max on Friday, May 10th. Following its streaming release, the film will also be available on HBO and is scheduled to make its linear debut on Saturday, May 18 at 8 p.m. ET.

Starring a talented ensemble cast including Zac Efron, Jeremy Allen White, Harris Dickinson, Stanley Simons, Maura Tierney, Holt McCallany, and Lily James, “THE IRON CLAW” tells the true story of the Von Erich brothers. These inseparable siblings made waves in the intensely competitive world of professional wrestling during the early 1980s.

The film delves into the brothers’ journey through both tragedy and triumph as they navigate the shadows of their domineering father and coach. Amidst this backdrop, the brothers strive for larger-than-life immortality on the grandest stage in sports.

Sean Durkin takes the helm as both writer and director for “THE IRON CLAW,” with production credits going to Tessa Ross, Juliette Howell, Angus Lamont, Sean Durkin, and Derrin Schlesinger.

Don’t miss the chance to witness this compelling tale of ambition, family, and the pursuit of greatness when “THE IRON CLAW” premieres on HBO Max this May.

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It’s been two months since Beyoncé dropped Cécred, her line of hair care products designed to treat textured hair. And while most fans couldn’t wait to get their hands on all of that shampoo and conditioning goodness, others just couldn’t help but hate.

Earlier, we told you about the comments that came from some users who criticized Bey for not demonstrating the products in the first batch of visuals. And others argued that they wouldn’t trust her with their haircare because she wears wigs.

But the “Texas Hold ‘Em” singer just silenced all of that hate with a new video of her wash day using Cécred products.

“It has been such a special experience seeing all of your #cecredwashday rituals all over my timeline. I just had to join in with something I had in the archives 🥰,” she captioned the April 22 Instagram post, which has received nearly two million likes in the 12 hours it’s been live. But would you expect anything less from Queen Bey?

The video shows Bey getting what is clearly her hair washed, blow dried, flat ironed and curled using products from her line. And in the voiceover (yes, there is a voiceover), Bey talks about how much she loves the feel and smell of the products.

“There’s nothing in the world like the conditioner. I love it. There’s nothing like it,” she raves.

And, of course, she had to take a minute to silence all of the hate that’s been thrown her way for wearing wigs.

“The stigma and misconception is that people who wear wigs don’t have long and healthy hair. That’s some bullshit,” she says. “‘Cause it ain’t nobody’s business.

Fans have been sharing their excitement at the opportunity to get all up in Bey’s scalp with comments like,

“Not Beyonce showing us her hairrrrrrrrr 😍,” ”WHEN YALL SAID IT WASNT HER HAIR ?!!! Oh okayyyy,” “Auntie said not a track, lace front, or closure in sight! Stop playing with her🤭”

Bey also let users know that her products were carefully developed out of her own experience and are meant to help people maintain healthy hair.

“Maintaining 25 years of blonde on natural hair through all the experimenting I do has played a huge part in developing @cecred’s products. It’s the hardest to keep color-treated hair healthy and strong, but @cecred is here. All quality, with NO shortcuts. Congratulations to the entire CÉCRED team for contributing to developing award-winning products, 💕” she wrote in her post.

Cheslie Kryst’s mother is fulfilling her daughter’s dying wish of publishing her memoir.

Two years after Kryst’s death by suicide, April Simpkins is sharing intimate details about her 22-year-old daughter’s life in a newly published book, “By the Time You Read This: The Space Between Cheslie’s Smile and Mental Illness.”

According to People magazine, Kryst wrote the book, which Simpkins completed after her death to assist others battling with mental health issues. Simpkins has also helped launch the Cheslie C. Kryst Foundation, which will benefit from the book’s proceeds and support mental health programs for youth and young adults.

“I knew that I had to get this done,” said Simpkins, a mental health advocate and ambassador for the National Alliance on Mental Health. “Doing this thing that was so important to her, it was a phenomenal feeling. When it was finished, it was the first time I saw the sun and could exhale.”

At 30, Kryst had a law degree and an MBA, was a Miss USA crown holder, and worked as an Emmy-nominated correspondent for “Extra.” Still, she wrote in her memoir that she carried an “unshakable feeling that I did not belong” and battled a “constant inner voice repeating ‘never enough.’” 

Expressing the pressures that came with her success, she added, “I had to be perfect because I had to represent for all youth, women, and Black people who also wanted to be in the room but had been denied access.”

While news of Kryst’s death shocked those who only knew her as a beauty queen with multiple degrees and a high-profile job, Simpkins understood the severity of her daughter’s struggles.

She acknowledged that despite Kryst’s high-achieving personality, the struggle with depression was always present. She had attempted suicide in 2015.

“I was blindsided,” said Simpkins. “I thought we could talk about anything, so when I got that phone call, I’m playing through conversations in my head, thinking, ‘Why didn’t she feel comfortable enough to talk to me?’”

Simpkins said after Kryst’s initial suicide attempt, she pleaded with God for “more time” with her daughter, and she made the most of it. She dedicated herself to supporting Kryst and learning “not to talk at her, but to listen to her.”

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Then, on Jan. 30, 2022, Kryst sent her mother a devastating text message describing the private pain she had gone through. She started it with a harrowing passage: “By the time you get this, I won’t be alive anymore.”

“I cannot bear the crushing weight of persistent sadness, hopelessness, and loneliness any longer,” she continued. “I cry almost every day now like I’m in mourning…I no longer feel like I have any purpose in life. I don’t know if I ever really did.”

Simpkins shared that when she first learned Kryst was gone, part of her thought she would die from a broken heart. While grieving, she faced criticism from some on social media, asking why she was unaware of her daughter’s struggles or why she wasn’t able to save her, given their close relationship.

However, the mother of six said it was a war her daughter had fought for many years, and no one was to blame.

As a mother, “you want to fight every battle, and you want your children to know, ‘I got your back,’” she said. “But mental illness is a fight you can’t fight for your child.”

“I lived every single day with her to its fullest,” Simpkins said per People. “I can’t let guilt erase what we had. I’m just thankful for all the days Cheslie fought and won and lived to fight another day. You have to accept what was. You can’t change it. And what’s left is gratitude.”

If you or someone you know is considering self-harm or suicide, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 or the Suicide Crisis Line at 1-800-784-2433. Help is available 24 hours a day.

In an effort to highlight the people who are leading colleges and universities across the nation, we at Watch The Yard reached out to Morgan State University and did an interview with Brooke Foyles the 2022-2023 Student Government Association president.

The position of SGA president is a highly respected role and there is a special pride that one takes in being elected by their peers to lead. Foyles, who is majoring in nursing, is from Ellicott City, MD. She is a proud Fall 2021 initiate of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.

We interviewed Brooke Foyles, and talked to her about her position, goals, future and what it means to hold this type of leadership position in 2022-2023.

Read the full interview below.

What is the biggest thing you’ve learned as an SGA president so far?

A pivotal lesson gleaned from my tenure as SGA President is the understanding that this position epitomizes the apex of leadership, yet necessitates a steadfast connection to practicality and humility. Balancing the desire for understanding with the limitations of perspective can be a significant challenge. This position highlights the symbiotic relationship between leadership and the student body, emphasizing the need for active listening, collaboration, and adaptable problem-solving. This can become a challenge as juggling and managing situations can get tricky because you want others to grasp your perspective, but sometimes even you don’t have a clear view. That’s why I stress that being President grounds you the most; you simply can’t lead without being in tune with your fellow students. The essence of the Student Government Association President’s role lies in being a representative of the people, always ready to engage, collaborate, and find practical solutions. In addition, balancing the presidency with academics and other activities requires being realistic about what you can achieve and accepting that you won’t always have all the answers or be able to help everyone in times of crisis. My time as SGA President has been a deeply enriching journey, emphasizing the significance of humility, staying rooted, and being true to oneself.

What made you decide to attend Morgan State University for undergrad?

After considerable deliberation regarding my college priorities, I ultimately decided to enroll at Morgan State University. Factors such as proximity to family, affordability, and the opportunity to remain engaged in activism weighed heavily in my decision-making process. Following discussions with my father, a proud alumnus of Morgan’s Class of 1992, we embarked on a campus tour together for me to gain knowledge of what Morgan truly is about. Witnessing the campus’s beauty and experiencing the strong sense of community solidified my conviction that Morgan was the ideal choice for me. I felt a deep connection akin to that of my great uncle John Sykes, a distinguished member of the Morgan Hall of Fame in 1976, and my uncle Victor Foyles, a founding member of Alpha Nu Omega Fraternity Inc. It was at that moment that I decided to attend Morgan State University, ready to forge my own path and contribute to its esteemed legacy.

How has Morgan State University molded you into the person you are today?

Morgan State University has played a pivotal role in shaping my character, instilling in me the importance of advocating for myself and standing up for what I believe is right. Engaging in various campus organizations and interacting with fellow students has provided me with invaluable insights into the diverse paths that have converged to bring us to this collective moment. Through these experiences, I have expanded my perspective on a multitude of subjects, deepened my knowledge base, and honed my critical thinking skills. I am convinced that Morgan has empowered me to embrace my potential fully, surrounded by individuals who share a common aspiration: to effect positive change in the world according to their vision. Despite encountering challenges along the way, it is through overcoming these obstacles and fostering a supportive community that I have grown into the confident and resilient individual that defines the essence of a Morgan woman today.

What specific initiatives have you headed up this year (or are planning) and how do you think they will improve the school and surrounding community?

Throughout this academic school year, my administration has been dedicated to our C.A.R.E platform, which stands for Conversation, Application, Rejuvenation, and Education. Our primary focus has been on advocating for students, student organizations, and the future student body. We successfully passed legislation to establish a council of student organizations, providing a platform for collaborative problem-solving and innovative solutions. Additionally, we championed the reallocation of student fees to enhance the overall student experience for years to come. We have been at the forefront of establishing student control over our University Student Center and determining its future occupants. Moreover, in the aftermath of the October incident at our university, we have diligently advocated for increased security measures and safety awareness. We have tirelessly pursued each of these initiatives and are committed to continuing our collaboration with various departments to revive Morgan traditions and ensure that student voices remain at the forefront of university decisions.

How is your SGA administration/school currently working on attending to the mental health of students?

Under our Rejuvenation platform within the C.A.R.E acronym, my administration has prioritized the mental well-being of students. Over the past year, we have actively advocated for wellness days, dedicated to allowing students a break from classes, coursework, and other activities to focus on rest and self-care. Additionally, we recently organized a Sound bath event aimed at promoting relaxation and meditation, which was open to the entire student body. Looking ahead, we are committed to developing more wellness-focused events and organizing immersive self-care spa days, with the aim of establishing them as recurring annual events. We firmly believe that fostering good mental health and providing a strong support system are essential for the well-being of every student, the vitality of our university, and the strength of our community.

What does leadership mean to you?

To me, leadership embodies diversity and adaptability, even in challenging circumstances. It signifies actively engaging as both a learner and a contributor within any community or organization. Leadership is about inspiring others and pursuing a mission so compelling that it motivates individuals to make a difference in their own spheres.

We now live in a digital world, what do you think schools need to do to represent themselves online in 2023/2024?

I believe that institutions must authentically demonstrate and uphold their core values to effectively represent themselves. It’s one thing for a school to claim certain principles, but it’s crucial to ensure that these values are actively reflected and supported in their actions. This entails faculty actively engaging with students, the institution listening to student concerns on critical matters such as housing, and proactively aligning with the founding principles and reasons why students chose the institution. Additionally, it’s essential for schools to ensure that their branding accurately reflects their identity. While it may be tempting to follow trends or adhere strictly to analytic plans, what truly sets an institution apart is its ability to establish a unique identity and brand that resonates with prospective students.

Why do you think Watch The Yard is important to Black students and college culture?

I strongly believe in the significance of representation and success within the Black community. Witnessing individuals from our community achieve success can be profoundly inspiring and can fuel aspirations for greater achievements. I vividly recall the impact of observing successful students on the page during my senior year of high school, which instilled in me a desire to emulate their accomplishments and strive for greater heights. Additionally, as we move forward, we must preserve spaces and forums that offer solace from the challenges and adversities we face. These spaces are essential for fostering a sense of belonging and community, and it’s vital that we safeguard them as we progress into the future.

What do you plan on doing after graduation?

Upon graduating from thee illustrious Morgan State University, my ambition is to pursue a career as a labor and delivery nurse, with a specialization in advocating for Black maternal health. Following this, I intend to transition into advocacy for sickle cell patients, shedding light on other health disparities prevalent within our communities. My goal is to leverage my expertise and passion to contribute meaningfully to addressing these critical healthcare challenges and striving for equity and improved outcomes for all.

We at Watch The Yard would like to commend Brooke Foyles for her work as the SGA president of Morgan State University.

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One month ago, Kendrick Lamar set the rap world ablaze with his track ‘LIKE THAT’, throwing pointed jabs at Drake. Since then, the industry has been buzzing with reactions, diss tracks, and social media wars, reshaping the landscape of hip-hop.’LIKE THAT’ has skyrocketed to become the biggest rap hit in years, dominating charts and airwaves.

Future and Metro Boomin have capitalized on the hype, securing two #1 albums in the wake of the controversy.J. Cole entered the fray with a Kendrick diss track, only to retract and apologize, deleting the song from streaming platforms shortly after. Meanwhile, ASAP Rocky and The Weeknd joined the chorus of artists taking shots at Drake.

In a twist, a leaked Drake diss record emerged, earning acclaim as one of the best in recent memory. Rick Ross didn’t waste time, responding with his track within hours. The two engaged in a heated exchange over Instagram for days, with Drake even trolling Metro Boomin and Kendrick Lamar on his stories.

Not to be outdone, Drake released another diss track featuring AI-generated versions of Tupac and Snoop Dogg, pleading with Kendrick to respond. Kanye West jumped into the mix, dropping a remix of ‘LIKE THAT’ targeting both Drake and J. Cole. Ye proclaimed that everyone was thrilled about the “elimination of Drake”.Amidst all the chaos, Kendrick Lamar has remained silent, leaving fans and artists alike eagerly awaiting his next move.

Rap music is currently as exciting and competitive as it’s been in years, proving that, as one industry insider put it, “It’s funny how one verse can f*ck up the game.”

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