Just Do It: How Jade Ward Stands Up for Students at Bowie State

When Jade Ward '26 arrived at Bowie State as a freshman four years ago, she refused to blend quietly into the background, even though it might have been the easier thing to do.

"I took part in New Student Orientation, and I was welcomed with open arms. That warm reception really made me want to get involved with student leadership right away. So my first year I ran for a class position and was elected freshman vice president. I've been involved in student governance ever since."

Today, the sociology major from the Eastern shore of Maryland is Bowie State's 41st Student Government Association (SGA) president, capping a college experience defined by advocacy, involvement and an authentic commitment to her fellow students.

Since freshman year, Ward has steadily climbed the SGA ranks. She was elected as sophomore class vice president and junior class president before winning the SGA presidency her senior year.

"I wanted to be part of certain conversations to advocate for other people. The progression during the past four years helped me truly understand student needs across class years and prepared me for the responsibilities of leading the entire student body."

She says one of her proudest achievements as SGA president was hosting regular student body forums open to everyone on campus, including leaders representing specific university populations such as graduate students, commuters and transfers. Her goal was to provide a place for everyone to be heard so the SGA could take meaningful follow-up action.

"Every month we came together to have conversations as a BSU family. Everyone shared really good resources or information with each other, and over food we'd have open discussions and hear from students and campus leaders. Representatives from the administration would come too."

These dialogues revealed a major area of concern: upholding academic excellence. Students wanted more responsive advisors, better engaged deans and greater accountability in the classroom.

"We advocated on students' behalf for more transparent faculty advising and academic access. I think President Breaux, Provost Amoussou and administrators listened to these concerns. During the 2025-2026 school year, they reiterated the importance of attending Friday classes and advising, to make sure that students are getting their educational money's worth."

Leadership and opportunity have always shaped Ward's life, and she understands their impact deeply.

"For students thinking about getting involved in anything at BSU--just do it. Do it scared. Do it tired. Do it hungry. Do it anyway. Don't pass up on opportunities because you might have some fear. I knew less than five people when I got here."

Academically, she has special words of praise for Dr. Anthony J. Jackson and Dr. Anas Askar, assistant professors in the Department of Sociology and Child Studies.

"They have been very influential in my educational experience by expanding how I think and given me a deeper understanding of major issues such as critical race theory, critical consciousness and overall advocacy for the underrepresented. They've genuinely been amazing professors."

After commencement, Ward plans to continue her academic journey. She has long-term plans to pursue a Ph.D. in sociology. She says Bowie State taught her that showing up with courage and purpose can change not only your own path but also an entire campus community.

"I think Bowie State has done a great job of making sure everyone feels included, because not all universities do that. The fact that the SGA was able to create a space for liaison between President Breaux and representatives of different BSU populations is definitely something that we take pride in."