New SGA Leader at Mississippi College Embraces Strong and Courageous Focus

MC SGA President Michael Washington, Jr. is a senior. The mathematics major excels as a Choctaws football player and student leader.

Masking up and observing all other health protocols on campus, Michael Washington, Jr. is stepping up as a Mississippi College student leader.

As MC’s new Student Government Association president, Washington quickly became a key player in the university’s COVID-19 response efforts.

The Choctaws football standout embraces the Christian university’s “Strong and Courageous” focus for the 2020-21 academic year.

“Honestly, I love it! I don’t think there’s any better scripture during this crazy time,” Washington said. “We must always remember that the man upstairs commands us to be strong and courageous, especially in times like this.”

President Blake Thompson recently announced the university adopted the “Strong and Courageous” focus inspired by passages in the Book of Joshua.

MC begins its 195^th academic year with classes starting August 17. Faculty, staff and students face daily challenges during the global health emergency.

Thanks to Michael’s ideas and support, Mississippi College created a new pledge for students to sign. The document is designed to strongly encourage students to adhere to health guidelines at school and off campus. As of early August, USA coronavirus cases topped 5.2 million with more than 164,000 deaths reported.

Health protocols on the Clinton campus and in communities are meant to curb the spread of the deadly virus. It goes beyond wearing masks, social distancing and washing one’s hands.

Besides the COVID-19 response, there’s more on his agenda. Washington, 21, expects to earn a bachelor’s degree in mathematics in May 2021. The Mississippian plans to pursue a master’s in athletic administration starting in fall 2021.

What are SGA’s priorities?

“Our biggest goal is to help the administration in every aspect so we can continue the semester on campus.”

The Lauderdale County resident stresses the importance of students observing health protocols. Each year, SGA leaders seek to improve campus life for thousands of students.

“If we do not take our campus guidelines seriously, we may not be here to attempt to put them (goals) in action.”

His first duty as SGA president was serving on the institution’s Fall 2020 Reopening Task Force. That’s where the idea of a pledge originated. Students led the initiative. Student leaders like Washington crafted the words on paper.

Michael Washington is eager to start his senior year. “In my honest opinion, when we get to the point where we can accept this new normal, it is going to be a great year.”

Choctaws head football coach John Bland is impressed with Michael’s achievements as a team leader. “He has served as our team captain and the guys look up to the example he sets.”

It’s really no surprise, Bland said, that he’s “taken a leadership role across the entire student body. We are really proud of his contributions across the board at Mississippi College.”

SGA Vice President Damon Wright admires Michael Washington for his positive attitude, and a work ethic that’s off the charts.

Arriving at MC in 2018 from Northwest Mississippi Community College, Michael “has exuded excellence both on and off the field,” said the Choctaws teammate.

From serving with the Presidential Ambassadors to working with the Campus Activities Board, Welcome Week, tutoring and playing football, Michael does it all. “He properly prioritized when needed and has never let one aspect of involvement falter.”

Year-round, Michael Washington “has always been devoted to his faith, family and the people around him,” says Wright, an Alabama resident. “I cannot wait to see how he leads the campus in these unique times.”

During these sultry summer days, the Mississippi College family feels blessed to welcome Michael Washington aboard as SGA president.