Leadership Highlight: Albany State University’s Student Government President Jonathan Bing 

In an effort to highlight the people who are leading colleges and universities across the nation, we at Watch The Yard reached out to Albany State University and did an interview with Jonathan Bing , the 2025–2026 Student Government Association president.

The position of student government president is a highly respected role and there is a special pride that one takes in being elected by their peers to lead. Jonathan Bing , who is majoring in Psychology & Computer Science minor, is from Lawrenceville, Georgia.

We interviewed Jonathan Bing  and talked to him about his position, goals, future and what it means to hold this type of leadership position in 2025–2026.

Read the full interview below.

What is the biggest thing you’ve learned as a student government president so far?

The biggest thing I learned as SGA President is that leadership is never about me it’s about the people I serve. Holding this position taught me the importance of being selfless, putting the needs of others before my own, and showing up for students even on the days when it wasn’t easy. Throughout my term, there were many moments when I had to step out of my own way, get out of my own head, and focus on the bigger purpose. This experience showed me that real leadership requires humility, compassion, and a commitment to doing what’s best for the community, not just what’s convenient for myself.

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

What made me attend Albany State was truly the grace of God. My high school counselor, Mr. Andre Prospere, encouraged me to apply and told me to experience college life for myself and I trusted his guidance. I had never been to Albany until orientation, which was also my move-in day, and from the moment I arrived, I fell in love with the campus. My first impression was powerful everyone welcomed me like family and showed genuine love. That sense of community is what made Albany State feel like home from day one.

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

Albany State University has shaped me into a God fearing, determined, and resilient leader. The lessons and experiences God allowed me to go through here have played a major role in my growth, and I honestly don’t know where I would be without them.

The most important things I’ve learned are to always stay true to who you are  God designed each of us uniquely, and there will only ever be one you. I also learned to never quit. No matter what challenges God places in front of you, He will develop you, guide you, and carry you through. You just have to trust the process, keep working, put one foot in front of the other, and take it one breath at a time, one step at a time, and one day at a time. 

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?

A few key initiatives the CHANGE Administration has led include improving our graduation rate, raising the average freshman GPA, and strengthening the relationship between the University and the City of Albany. These efforts aim to increase student retention, support academic success, and ensure that the surrounding community feels valued and supported by the University. By building stronger students and stronger community partnerships, we create a foundation for long-term growth and impact.

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

Our University takes mental health extremely seriously. Our Counseling Services and Accessibility Resources provide students with active appointment based therapy and counseling support. We also offer a Reset Room, where students can spend up to one hour per day engaging in holistic practices such as meditation and sensory based regulation exercises to help reset and refocus their minds.These services are designed to support every demographic on our campus, and we are intentional about creating spaces, programs, and events that celebrate, educate, and inform students about mental health and overall well-being.

What does leadership mean to you?

Leadership to me is about influence, responsibility, and the courage to set the standard. A true leader understands that words carry weight, but actions create impact. Anyone can talk about what they plan to do, but it’s the work you put in the consistency, the discipline, the integrity that inspires people to believe in you. When others see you living out your purpose with passion and commitment, it hits differently. It motivates them, it challenges them, and it gives them permission to rise to a higher level themselves. Leadership isn’t just about guiding others; it’s about becoming the kind of person who empowers people just by showing up and doing the work.

We now live in a digital world, what do you think schools need to do to represent themselves online in 2025–2026?

I honestly believe schools need a complete digital rebranding. Universities should invest in revamping their websites and strengthening their social media presence, because the first impression for future students happens online long before they ever step foot on campus. A modern, engaging, and informative digital image can be the deciding factor in whether a student chooses to explore a university further.

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

Watch The Yard is important because it connects universities across the country, engages alumni, and amplifies campus culture through powerful digital platforms and networks. It doesn’t just elevate HBCUs  it elevates all universities by showcasing their traditions, student leaders, and campus life on a national stage. Watch The Yard takes the pride, energy, and excellence of each institution to another level.

What do you plan on doing after graduation?

I plan to serve in the Air Force while continuing my education in computer science. After my time in the Air Force, I aspire to give back to my community by working as a high school counselor and coaching sports, helping guide and inspire the next generation both academically and personally.

We at Watch The Yard would like to commend Jonathan Bing  for his work as the student government president of Albany State University .

Photo Credits: @reesewimberly_