Today@Sam Article

Commencement Spotlight: Jordan Johnson

May 20, 2021
SHSU Media Contact: Emily Binetti

“Commencement Spotlight” is a series focused on highlighting SHSU graduates who have made remarkable strides in their lives to reach commencement day. These stories from Bearkats graduating this month, who have demonstrated a “can-do” spirit through challenges and service, remind us of the many ways Sam Houston State University is preparing students for meaningful lives of achievement. Visit today@sam/commencementspotlight to find the list of stories highlighted so far.

Jordan Johnson
Round Rock, Texas
Degree: Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communications with concentration in Public Relations & Advertising

“I'm going to miss the people the most. I've made so many great relations at my time here at Sam that I'm going to treasure for the rest of my life.”

Jordan Johnson has been the Sam Houston State University student body president since May 2020. During her time at SHSU, she was also a part of the Orange Pride, served as co-executive director of the Center for Diversity & Intercultural Affairs, was the 2020 Miss Piney Woods Pageant winner, and a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha and Alpha Kappa Psi.

Why did you choose SHSU?
JJ: I chose to attend Sam to be a part of the award-winning Orange Pride Dance Team. I came because of dance, but I stayed because of the people!

What challenges did you face to complete your college degree?

JJ: Of course, I faced the challenges that COVID brought to all of us, but I also felt the challenge of being a minority student and feeling like I had to go above and beyond with my involvement. Being an ambitious person can sometimes be overwhelming and specifically being a black woman, it was hard to determine if the campus community would embrace me with open arms. I decided to put those inhibitions aside and go after my goals, which proved to be the right decision.

What community service projects have you taken part in during your time at SHSU?
JJ: As a member of SGA, I have participated in Bearkat All Paws In for three years. As President of Student Government, I've had a chance to organize that event and many others that serve the community including voter registration drives and providing free feminine hygiene products to students in need.

What future career goals do you have?
JJ: I currently have a summer internship with Congressman Lloyd Doggett in Austin. I plan on working in political communications and work towards bridging the gap between young people in politics by educating them on important issues in our community, through the power of social media.

See more Commencement Spotlight features. 

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