A Look into 2026’s SGA Presidential Candidates

In order to give the campus an opportunity to inform themselves on the coming SGA election, the Gazette student journalism team developed and sent a questionnaire to each candidate running for Student Government Association President. Three of the four candidates responded with their positions on the importance of the election, why they are running, what their qualifications are, what they see as the biggest issues affecting the campus, and why they feel students should vote for them. Their entire answers, unedited, are provided below. Candidates have been organized alphabetically by last name.

A voting link will be emailed to all current Langston University students on April 7, and students will have 24 hours to vote. A debate between the candidates will be held April 2 at 6pm in the Atrium.

Terrance L. Keys II
A smiling man in a purple suit sitting at a conference table, with a gray background and a digital screen behind him.
Why should students care about this election?

Students should care about this election because it directly impacts their everyday college experience—and this campaign is built around giving that power back to them.

At the end of the day, this election isn’t just about choosing a person—it’s about choosing how much influence students have over their own campus experience. If students want their voices amplified and their needs prioritized, this election is how that happens.

Why are you running for SGA President?

I’m running for SGA President because I genuinely care about the student experience and I know we can do more to make every student feel heard, included, and supported. I’ve seen where we’re doing well, but I’ve also seen where students feel overlooked or disconnected—and I want to help change that.

For me, this isn’t just about holding a title. It’s about creating real impact—making sure students have a voice, improving communication, and building a campus environment where people feel proud to be here. I want to be someone who listens, takes action, and brings people together.

What are your qualifications? (past leadership, campus involvement)

I have a lengthy list of qualifications both her and in life experience. Before I arrived to Langston University, I served on the Principal Advisory Council and served as the Class President for the Senior Class of 2020. With this title, I navigated my senior class experiences in the midst of worldwide pandemic.

During my time here at Langston, I have served on numerous E-Boards and Organizations. Currently, I work in the Office of Student Life as a Student Engagement Intern. I also serve as the Chaplain and Editor for the Phi Psi Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. I also serve on the Langston University NPHC Executive Board as the Activities Coordinator. I am Langston University Ambassador. Formally, I’ve served as Student Government Association Activities Coordinator. I served on the Student Activities Board as the graphic designer and Spirit Liaison. I also have served on the SGA Senate as the Athletics Committee Co-Chair.

In the midst of all of this, I also currently serve in the United States Armed Forces.

What do you see as the most significant issues affecting the Langston campus today, and how would you advocate those issues with the Langston administration?

The biggest issues at Langston University are housing and lack of support for student-athletes. Housing is often limited and inconsistent, and athletes don’t always get the academic and personal support they need.

I would advocate by gathering student feedback, presenting it to administration, and pushing for clear improvements like better housing conditions and stronger academic and wellness support systems for athletes

Why should students vote for you?

Students should vote for me because I will actively listen to student concerns and turn them into real action. I will prioritize key issues like housing and student-athlete support, while improving communication between students and the administration at Langston University. My focus is on being accessible, accountable, and making sure every student feels heard and represented.

Lana Na’Cole
A smiling woman with long, straight hair wearing a navy cardigan and white dress, making a 'L' shape with her hand against a plain background.
Why should students care about this election?

I believe students should care about this election because it directly impacts our everyday experience on campus. Just like in The Proud Family, every voice matters in shaping the environment we live in. This election is about choosing leadership that will advocate for student needs, celebrate our culture, and create real change. When students vote, they’re not just choosing a president they’re choosing the future of our campus family.

Why are you running for SGA President?

I’m running for SGA President because I want to be a voice for every student and help build a campus that feels like home for everyone. My platform, “Proud Family,” reflects unity, growth, and resilience. Just like Penny faced challenges and grew into her confidence, I want to help students navigate college life while feeling supported and empowered. I’m passionate about making sure students feel heard, valued, and proud of where they are.

What are your qualifications? (past leadership, campus involvement)

I serve as Miss Jabberwock 25-26 as well as A member of Women of Purpose, and also the special assistant on the Student Government Association board, as well as I served as Miss Purple and Gold 24-25

What do you see as the most significant issues affecting the Langston campus today, and how would you advocate those issues with the Langston administration?

Some of the most significant issues affecting campus include student engagement, communication between students and administration, and ensuring all students feel included and supported. Under my “Proud Family” platform, I want to strengthen that sense of unity while addressing real concerns. I would advocate by creating open forums, listening sessions, and consistent communication channels so student voices are heard clearly. I will work closely with administration to turn student concerns into action, ensuring transparency and accountability every step of the way.

Why should students vote for you?

Students should vote for me because I am committed to building a campus that feels like a true “Proud Family” where every student is seen, heard, and valued. I don’t just want the title, I want the responsibility of advocating for real change, stronger communication, and a more unified student body. Just like the Proud Family grew through challenges and supported one another, I will work to create an environment where we uplift each other and succeed together. I will lead with purpose, listen with intention, and serve with pride because this campus isn’t just where we go to school, it’s our home.

A woman in a stunning silver gown poses in front of a colorful background featuring animated characters from 'The Proud Legacy'.

Damien Simmons
A smiling individual wearing a black blazer with a gold emblem, a white shirt, and a black and gold striped tie, standing against a plain white wall.
Why should students care about this election?

Because it dictates the future of the university the student body needs affective leadership in order to fix the issues students have

Why are you running for SGA President?

I truly want to be a change for the better for the student body, and I’m tired of waiting for things to change. I want to make it

What are your qualifications? (past leadership, campus involvement)

I have been in SGA since I was a freshman. I was freshman class president, sophomore class president, senate pro- temp, civic voice chair, I have written legislation on a state level to help students across the state, and I’m the Oklahoma assistant district director of Alpha Phi Alpha

What do you see as the most significant issues affecting the Langston campus today, and how would you advocate those issues with the Langston administration?

This campus belongs to the students, but we are sold a mentality that we are powerless to make a change. That mindset kills because the best way to lose is not to act

Why should students vote for you?

Students should vote for me because I’m not just gonna talk about doing the work, I will get up and do it regardless of the situation, to do what I believe in, which is true change and progress for the university

Campaign poster for Damien Simmons, SGA President candidate, featuring a smiling young man making a hand gesture. The background is blue with text promoting his candidacy and key campaign points about progress, unity, and empowerment.

Jonell St. Fort
A smiling individual stands in front of a blue wall adorned with inspirational text, wearing a black sweater, light-colored pants, and brown shoes.
Why should students care about this election?

Students should care about SGA elections because the officers elected play a direct role in shaping their experience at Langston University. The decisions they make, the events they plan, and the legislation they pass all impact the student body. Just as we pay attention to national leaders, we should show the same level of care and engagement in choosing our student leaders, since their roles carry real influence within the campus community.

Why are you running for SGA President?

I’m running for SGA President because, as the Student Activities Coordinator, I’ve had the opportunity to see the inner workings of the Student Government Association and the real impact it has on shaping the student experience here at Langston. I’ve witnessed firsthand the influence we have not just in planning events, but in making decisions that affect students academic, social, and overall campus life. However in my current role, my responsibilities have been limited primarily to event planning and programming. While I’m proud of the work I’ve done, I know I have much more to offer the student body beyond organizing events. Our students deserve leadership that not only creates memorable experiences but also advocates for their needs, listens to their concerns, and actively works to improve their future on this campus. I’ve served as a chair member of the Senate, worked as the Activities Coordinator, and gained valuable mentorship from administrative staff and past SGA presidents. These experiences have given me a well-rounded understanding of leadership, collaboration, and the responsibility that comes with representing student voices. Now, I’m ready to bring all of that together to lead with purpose and vision. As SGA President I want to help create a Langston where students feel heard, where decisions are made with their best interests in mind, and where their voices truly drive the changes they want to see. I want to strengthen communication between students and leadership, increase transparency, and ensure that every student feels represented and valued. I am committed to building a stronger, more united campus community one where opportunities are expanded, student concerns are addressed, and progress is intentional. I’ve worked hard to learn the ins and outs of this organization to prepare for this moment, and I am ready to lead with dedication, integrity, and passion. I will give my best effort every day to serve our student body and make a lasting, positive impact.

What are your qualifications? (past leadership, campus involvement)

Former vice president of the Caribbean student organization, G.E.N.T.S member, secretary for the NAACP, resident assistant then promoted to senior resident assistant overseeing the RAs, SGA senator, kings court president, SGA activities coordinator, LU marching pride band, NASAP student leadership honor, community connect awardee, guide rites Officer for kappa alpha psi the alpha Pi chapter, and these are just to name a few

What do you see as the most significant issues affecting the Langston campus today, and how would you advocate those issues with the Langston administration?

One of the most significant issues affecting the Langston campus today is the need for stronger communication between students and the administration. Many students feel unheard or unaware of decisions that impact their experience. As SGA President, I would advocate for more transparency by creating regular forums, town halls, and open lines of communication so students can voice concerns and stay informed. I would also work to ensure that student input is genuinely considered in administrative decisions. Another issue is students lack of understanding of the power of social media. While it’s important to address challenges on campus, posting negatively without purpose can harm the university’s image and, in turn, the value of our degrees. I would promote awareness about responsible social media use and encourage students to express concerns in more constructive ways, while also providing better platforms for their voices to be heard.

Why should students vote for you?

Students should vote for me because I bring experience, vision, and a genuine commitment to serving the student body. I’ve worked inside SGA as a Student Activities Coordinator, served as a Senate chair member, walk the grounds as an RA and learned from past leaders and administration so I understand how to turn student concerns into real action. As AC I was never focused on planning events; I was always focused on creating impact. I want to strengthen communication between students and leadership, make sure every voice is heard, and ensure that decisions made on this campus truly benefit the student body. Most importantly, I’m dedicated to you. I’ve put in the time to learn, grow, and prepare for this role, and I’m ready to lead with integrity, accountability, and purpose. If you want a president who will listen, advocate, and work for real change, then I’m the right choice. I did everything I promised our students as AC and will do the same as President

Campaign poster for Jonell St. Fort for President of the Student Government Association, featuring a smiling man in a dark sweater, with a backdrop of a campus building and flowers, promoting leadership, empowerment, advocacy, and development.

Story ideas, opinion editorials, calendar events and advertising requests can be sent to dthom34@langston.edu. You may follow The Gazette on Instagram @lu_gazette, or sign up for our free newsletter.

The Gazette serves as the student voice of Langston University. It is produced within the Department of Communication as a teaching tool and local news source for the campus community. The views and opinions expressed within are those of the writers whose names appear with the articles and do not necessarily represent the views of Langston University. 

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