In an effort to highlight the people who are leading colleges and universities across the nation, we at Watch The Yard reached out to Rowan University and did an interview with Hope Campbell, 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. Campbell, who is majoring in Psychology, is from Bridgeton NJ.
She is a proud Fall 2023 initiate of Sigma Gamma Rho.
We interviewed Hope Campbell and talked to her about her 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?
One of the biggest things I learned is how impactful my influence is. This is evidenced through my relationship with the student body, monthly meetings with our university President, and well respected administrators. I used my influence to amplify a welcoming and supportive campus culture. Students are encouraged to thrive and be their true authentic selves. I have learned that there is so much weight in how you choose to carry yourself.
What made you decide to attend Rowan University for undergrad?
I chose Rowan University because I was positively impacted from a previous student. I was introduced to a new found sense of community. I was inspired to pour back into myself and rewrite my own story. Rowan showed me that I can lead in rooms that I would have never imagined I would be in. And that I do deserve a seat at the table.
How has Rowan University molded you into the person you are today?
Rowan University has helped develop my sense of self. Rowan has created space for me to be authentically myself. Throughout my time at Rowan I have learned to trust myself, not to doubt my abilities, to lean on my community, and not to dim my light.
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?
My overall agenda is to support students. One initiative in specific that I am most proud of is our Student Assemble. Where we created a more accessible way where students can connect with university officials. Students were provided with transparency and giving the opportunity to express their perspectives. As a result of this we were able to better support students socio-politically, and mentally.
How is your student government administration/school currently working on attending to the mental health of students?
SGA attends to students mental wellbeing by connecting them to appropriate services offered on campus. For example, UWill, our Wellness Center, Center for Belonging and Student Engagement, and promoting campus and hall involvement.
What does leadership mean to you?
Leadership means the opportunity to impact someone how I was impacted. It gives me the opportunity to serve my community with grace, kindness, and resiliency. To show others that they are capable of achieving their dreams and becoming successful. A pillar of my leadership style is to present myself as a role model for others.
We now live in a digital world, what do you think schools need to do to represent themselves online in 2025–2026?
It would be helpful for school’s to cater to their audience, need to become a custom to student needs, and produce engaging content. By doing this it will help maintain relevance and grab the attention of those they are serve.
Why do you think Watch The Yard is important to Black students and college culture?
Watch the yard is important because it connects students from HBCU to PWI’s on the basis of cultural and unity. It showcases Black excellence, highlighting’s the NPHC, and shows students of color that they are not alone. Although we all don’t have the same college experiences we still have the opportunity to connect with other students like us.
What do you plan on doing after graduation?
After undergrad I plan to attend Graduate school to obtain my Masters in Higher Education Administration. I want to serve all Students with the focus on students of color, students from marginalized backgrounds, and/ or those who face challenges. I want to leave a lasting impact through my career and future opportunities I am giving.
We at Watch The Yard would like to commend Hope Campbell for her work as the student government president of Rowan University .
Photo Credits: @flareofbliss @portsbykenz