Spelman Student Government President Fana HaileSelassie, C’2021, Committed to Strengthening Student Access to Senior Leadership
When she first arrived at Spelman, Fana R. HaileSelassie, C’2021, had no desire to get involved in student government. She had just completed a stint as student body president of her high school, and, as a legacy student, attending Spelman had always been her dream. She enrolled, deciding to focus her attention on enjoying her college experience without any leadership responsibilities.
But
just before her sophomore year, she began to envision new ways students could advocate for themselves.
"When I joined the 77th administration of Spelman’s student government [in 2018] as a sophomore and as the Co-First Year Liaison, I noticed a disconnect between the general student body and Spelman’s senior administration," said the international studies major. "I also noticed limited student feedback in SGA’s efforts to gauge student’s concerns. Both
of these problems suggested a need for reformed methods of communication between said parties and revised systems of accountability."
As the College shifted to virtual learning in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, HaileSelassie recognized that effective communication and community in the midst of the pandemic needed to be a priority and she wanted to be part of the solution.
One of her main priorities is the launching of a virtual advocacy platform – the first of its kind at Spelman.
"Students will use the portal to submit questions and concerns to SGA in order for us to organize and relay their feedback to Senior Team," she said. "I think it is of the utmost importance to note the impact that the global pandemic has had on students who rely on campus housing for conducive living and learning environments. I want to encourage my Spelman sisters and siblings to remain undaunted by the fight. Though it is easy and natural to become weary in these times, we must both protect our peace and continue to advocate for our communities."
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