Leadership Highlight: Savannah State University’s Student Government President Zaylen Gates

In an effort to highlight the people who are leading colleges and universities across the nation, we at Watch The Yard reached out to Savannah State University and did an interview with Zaylen Gates, 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. Zaylen, who is majoring in Political Science with a minor in Homeland Security, is from Savannah, Georgia.

We interviewed Zaylen Gates 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’ve learned as Savannah State University’s SGA President is the meaning of the phrase “Welcome to Leadership,” which our university president, Dr. Jermaine Whirl, reminds me of often. I have grown and been molded as a leader both in and outside of formal positions—through my time as vice president in high school, sophomore class president, a senator for my brotherhood, and now serving as SGA President while taking on additional responsibilities when needed. Each leadership role is different, and even if you come prepared, the challenges will always be there. Leadership will humble you because it requires sacrifice, and there are pros and cons you don’t always anticipate.

The SGA President position has challenged my leadership skills, tested my patience, and pushed me to grow in ways I didn’t expect. I am grateful for the opportunity because it has helped me learn how to guide my peers in the right direction while maintaining humility. While I’ve never liked using the phrase “heavy is the head that wears the crown,” I now understand that wearing the crown is part of embracing responsibility and overcoming obstacles.

As I move through each chapter of my life, I plan to continue developing my own leadership while helping others grow as leaders as well. My goal is to lead with integrity, humility, and a commitment to serving my community.

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

Some people assume that I chose to attend Savannah State University simply because I was born on its campus. While it’s true that I was born there, that is not the real reason I decided to enroll. The real influence came from my mother and my high school principal, Alfred McGuire, who are both Savannah State alumni. They had a conversation about my future and agreed that I should participate in dual enrollment to begin preparing for college early.

While attending Woodville-Tompkins Career and Technical High School, I took dual enrollment courses at Savannah State. This experience gave me an entire semester to adjust to the expectations of college life and develop the mindset needed for higher education. Initially, I planned to attend another university. However, I also wanted to stay close to home with my family, continue preparing academically, and potentially transfer after my first year.

Over time, Savannah State grew on me. I became more aware of the university’s rich history, my family’s legacy and connection to the institution, and the significant impact the university has had on Black communities. Experiencing the strong sense of Tiger Spirit on campus also made a lasting impression on me.

Because of my experience, I will always encourage students to consider dual enrollment. It can open many doors and give students a valuable head start on their college journey. In many ways, dual enrollment is what ultimately led me to where I am today.

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

Savannah State University has molded me into the person I am today by helping me develop leadership skills both on and off campus. It has expanded my mindset, encouraging me to pursue further education, grow professionally, and build meaningful relationships through true friendship, brotherhood, and sisterhood. The university has also taught me resilience, independence, and the importance of stepping out of my comfort zone to reach my full potential.

Overall, Savannah State has played a significant role in shaping the man I aspire to be, instilling values and experiences that continue to guide me personally, academically, and professionally.

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?

Under my administration, the relationship between the student body and university leadership has grown stronger than I have ever seen during my time at Savannah State University. Student concerns and issues are addressed effectively or are actively in progress. The ongoing collaboration and communications between President Whirl, the executive leadership, my executive board, and myself have helped address student concerns, increase transparency, and build stronger chemistry with the student body.

This past summer, I connected and assisted students in meeting Senator Jon Ossoff, which led to another opportunity this semester for students to engage with him again. This demonstrates the visibility and accessibility of our university leadership, especially for students in the social sciences departments. We have also partnered with the Athletics Department to bring greater awareness and support to our student-athletes, reminding the community that they are students first while fostering engagement with the broader campus.

Other initiatives include weekly check-in tables, residential check-ins, SGA Week, and the development of an interactive SGA page designed to engage students directly. We also continue mentorship programs, awareness campaigns, collaborations, and face-to-face conversations with students. Last semester, and continuing now, we have been updating the SGA Constitution with amendments and revisions that provide clarity, flexibility, accountability, and new opportunities for students. Additionally, I am working to reinstate the 1890 Committee & Scholarship, originally established by the Student Government Association and the university, along with other financial resources for students. We are also finalizing university projects, partnerships, and developing our first university app for students. While there are many ongoing initiatives, these represent the main efforts that have strengthened the university and positively impacted both the student body and the surrounding community.

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

Under the Savannah State University “Uproar” and the Student Government Association’s “Get Things Accomplished” administrations, we have been actively working to support the mental health of students. This includes hosting weekly check-in tables where students can share concerns related to wellness and public safety, as well as conducting residential check-ins to ensure that students living on campus feel supported. We also encourage participation in events hosted by the SGA and our Royal Court for both male and female students, which help promote engagement and provide opportunities for students to step out of their comfort zones.

Additionally, our administration collaborates with the university, particularly the Department of Student Development, to promote mental health initiatives. We help disseminate information about available resources and support services, guiding students on where to go, who to talk to, and how to seek help when needed.

What does leadership mean to you?
To me, leadership doesn’t just mean leaving a legacy; it’s about the legacies you are creating and supporting around you.

For example, when people ask me who I am at Savannah State University, I simply say I’m a student sometimes. You don’t always have to define yourself by your title—the position doesn’t make you; you make the position. Leadership is about allowing the role to develop you while you serve others.

Leadership also means being willing to sacrifice for others, even when things aren’t going in your favor. It means staying humble, leaving ego behind, leading with intent, and being open to change regardless of what others think. Leadership isn’t always about being seen as the “good guy.” Sometimes, you may be misunderstood, but true leadership is not about being liked—it’s about guiding others toward what is right.

We now live in a digital world, what do you think schools need to do to represent themselves online in 2025–2026?
In today’s digital world, schools should make sure their websites are updated, easy to navigate, and clearly communicate important information about academics, student life, opportunities, and campus resources. This helps students and families gain a clear understanding of what the institution offers and reassures them that their children are in good hands.

Schools should also actively use social media to highlight student achievements, campus events, and the overall culture of the university. By sharing stories of student success, leadership, research, and community involvement, schools can create a more authentic and engaging representation of campus life. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube allow institutions to reach students where they already spend time online and provide a more personal look at the college experience.

Finally, schools should use their online presence to build transparency and connection with their communities. This includes communicating important updates, showcasing diversity, and highlighting how the institution contributes to the surrounding community. When schools are consistent, engaging, and authentic online, they can strengthen their reputation, attract prospective students, and maintain a strong connection with current students and alumni.

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

I believe Watch The Yard is important to Black students and college culture because it highlights and preserves traditions that are central to the Black college experience, especially at Historically Black Colleges and Universities. The platform celebrates Black excellence by showing the achievements of students in areas such as academics, leadership, and campus involvement. Since some mainstream medias often overlooks positive back stories, Watch The Yard helps bring visibility to the accomplishments and impact of Black students. By sharing these experiences, the platform creates a stronger sense of connection among students across campuses and helps keep the traditions, history, and pride of HBCU culture visible and celebrated.

What do you plan on doing after graduation?
After graduation, I plan to pursue an internship while also working toward earning my master’s degree. As a Political Science major with a minor in Homeland Security, I want to continue gaining deeper knowledge and experience in the areas of politics, public policy, and business. My initial goal is to become a policy change-maker who can help influence decisions that improve communities and strengthen systems within government and public safety.

Ultimately, I aim to become a sage and stalwart leader who can advocate for communities and contribute to the greater good. My goal is to build a career that allows me to serve others, represent my community positively, and create opportunities for future generations. I want to use my education and experiences to help build a safer and more equitable society.


We at Watch The Yard would like to commend Zaylen Gates for his work as the student government president of Savannah State University.

Photo Credit: @shotbytamari, Litus Marshall, @senossoff