Recently, in front of family, friends, and a proud campus community, the 2021-2022 Coahoma Community College Student Government Association (SGA) officers were officially pinned. Signifying their status as campus leaders, the event, which happens annually, continued a sacred Coahoma tradition and rite of passage for the group.
William Wade '89, director of Educational Outreach, served as guest speaker and proudly
shared what it meant to return to service at CCC, as he was once SGA president during
his time as a student at the institution.
"I am more than honored to be asked to represent previous student government association presidents here today on this very important occasion," said Wade. "I came here as a young man in the fall of 1987 with not much direction. At that time, it was a very dedicated staff, just like it is a dedicated staff that we see here today. I owe a lot to the staff at the time because they gave me vision."
The SGA is a democratically elected group of students who advocate on behalf of the student body. Each member of the SGA works to improve the Coahoma experience. To accomplish this, the SGA transforms goals into realities.
Wade shared a discussion that he had regarding leadership with the students prior to the ceremony. He noted that he saw great promise within each student.
"Leaders aren't appointed. They step up," said Wade. "They step up and take the plate when they are passionate about areas that they want to see change in."
One such student leader who is especially honored to be an SGA member is Jonestown native Paris Phillips.
Serving as Vice President/Public Relations lead, Phillips became emotional during the ceremony. She shared how the moment is a full circle event in her life thus far.
"In high school, it seemed like I was always in the (front) office. My intentions
were never to be a bad student," Phillips said. "I didn't like 
that image over me."
After a bit of self-reflection and soul-searching, she found her way to CCC by way of Coahoma Early College High School (CECHS) and credits family and friends in aiding her in the decision to make CCC her choice to begin her educational journey.
"I went to CECHS. So, I already knew the grounds of Coahoma. But what really made my decision was my older sister and best friend," she said. "They were SGA members from last year. So, by them being SGA members, they pretty much dragged me on to campus every time there was an event. That showed me more than what I knew (about Coahoma)."
As a result, Paris sees herself flourishing at Coahoma, having shed the regrets of yesteryear. She sees herself making bold and audacious moves as she presses forward toward her goals and dreams.
"I actually see myself walking across the stage to receive a Grammy," she said. "Every moment when I have to walk across a stage, that's the picture in my head. So, I always take that moment as if I'm practicing. Like Dr. Towner said, I'm winning now!"
Coahoma Community College President Dr. Valmadge T. Towner brought closing remarks,
congratulating the group for their achievement. He shared how the skills and abilities
that they gain now will last a lifetime.
"What you are getting now will not go away in 24 months," said Towner. "This will be with you for the rest of your life. What you are doing now is great! Our work as employees and colleagues comes about as a result of you doing well."
2021-2022 SGA OFFICERS
Brianna Ratliff - President
Paris Phillips - Vice President/Public Relations
Jamillia McKinley - Miss CCC/Parliamentarian
Isaias Collins - Mr. CCC/Sergeant at Arms
Jaivian Hughes - Chief of Staff
Ken'Niya Brooks - Treasurer/Public Relations
Tyriana Triplett - Student Activities Chairperson
Christopher Murphy - Event Manager