A desire to improve her leadership skills and contribute to the development of new leaders in her community inspired finance senior Myya Jones to take the role as president of the Black Student Alliance for the coming school year.
However, Jones knew her already developed skills were needed to head the organization — most of the veteran members such as alumni Rashad Timmons and Patrice Wright graduated in May 2015.
So far, it appears there is nothing Jones can’t do.
When describing her myriad of experiences, she never misses a beat, remaining calm but also modest about all she has accomplished.
Jones has been involved in the Black Student Alliance, or BSA, since her sophomore year. She has also represented BSA in meetings of the Residence Halls Association.
Among the work that she does for the BSA, Jones is also involved in other organizations both on and off-campus.
But Jones’ role as BSA president is not her first leadership position.
“I’m on MSU’s Homecoming Court, I’m a Spartan Success Coach and I was an RA in Wilson Hall my sophomore year,” Jones said. “I was also on the executive board on the National Association of Black Accountants for two years.”
Looking forward, Jones said she hopes the BSA continues to build its presence within students, faculty and other members of the community.
“I just want BSA to continue to build our community with us and the other CORES and COPS groups, and do a lot of other events with groups around campus outside of CORES and within CORES,” she said.
CORES stands for the Council of Racial and Ethnic Students and COPS stands for Council of Progressive Students. Each council groups clubs and organizations that promote diversity around campus.
Though Jones is dedicated to solidifying the executive board, she said she also understands the importance of cultivating club members who are not in leadership positions.
The Black Student Alliance Street Team is one of those resources used by Jones that allows members of the community to get involved with the organization.
“We have monthly community service events, monthly socials, and then also they play a part in our bigger events, so when we have events like the Black Power Rally they play a part in that,” Jones said. “They can be a part of the team and help us with ushering, with getting the skits and stuff together (and) just being there to fill in where we need extra help.”
Jones added these groups of newer members will have separate meetings this year in addition to executive board meetings.
