SGA President Puts Students First

As the president of the Student Government Association at Thomas Nelson, Z. Cherry likes to stress the "student" aspect.

"The goals that I have set are for the students, my peers," said Cherry, who prefers to go by her first initial or last name.

First and foremost among those goals is making her peers aware the SGA is for them; that if they "have any questions, comments or concerns, whether good, bad or ugly," the organization is there for them.

Specifically, she wants to show students, many of whom struggle financially, there are scholarships, grants and other options available.

"The bottom line is I just want my peers to know there is help out there," she said. "There is staff who care, there are ways to get what you need done."

However, just like in life, it won't be handed to you; an effort must be made by the student.

"You have to be willing to go to where that information is," Cherry said. "If you're not going to search the website, then show up at the SGA meeting because that's where all the information is. If you don't show up at the meeting and you don't go to the website, you will be lost."

That is the last thing she wants to happen to the students.

"For those who may need help, that's my goal as president and for the club itself," she said.

Kadisia Archer, Student Life and Leadership coordinator, said that attitude is what makes a good SGA president.

"She honestly cares about the students' experience at the College and how it can be made better," she said.

Cherry, who is on track to graduate in May with associate degrees in Administration of Justice and Paralegal Studies, has experience in student government. She was SGA president at Grace H. Dodge Career and Technical High School in the Bronx and an SGA senator at the College last year. Cherry used that time to observe what makes a successful leader.

She observed that being SGA president takes leadership skills, which she cites as one of her strengths. It's also important to care about others.

Archer sees those traits in Cherry.

"When we have events and activities, she's very outgoing and she encourages students to participate," Archer said. "I think she has a way of making them feel welcome and like they are a part of the College. They may come to an event and be apprehensive, but I think she helps lower that wall for them."

Her term as president might be shorter than others because the elections for the 2021-22 academic year were held in September instead of April. She didn't have as much time to make the transition. But making adjustments is in her nature.

She was born in New York but moved to Norfolk before her high school years, and spent time going back and forth, eventually graduating from Booker T. Washington High School in Norfolk. Her original plan for college was to attend Hampton University and be part of the marching band. However, covid disrupted that. Soon after, she noticed Thomas Nelson was fewer than 10 minutes from her home.

"I just needed to know to get there," she said with a laugh.

After Thomas Nelson, she aspires to continue her education at a four-year school, then wants to attend law school. Her goal is to be a Supreme Court justice, "so I can continue to help others and make a difference."

She's also heavily involved with the College, being on the cheerleading team, as well as the appeals committee for parking.

"I think what stands out about her is her vibrant personality, her enthusiasm and love for the College," said Archer, who also noted Cherry's "advocacy for students and her openness to learn as much as she can."

And to make sure her fellow students have the opportunity to learn just as much also.