The Alabama State University Student Government Association (SGA) held its formal Presidential Inauguration Ceremony on Aug. 21 at 6 p.m. in the John Garrick Hardy Center Ballroom.

SGA Chief Justice Jaleah Jackson administered the Oath of Affirmation to the 72nd President DeJuan Trotman, an accounting major from Lumpkin, Georgia, who previously served as executive treasurer under the previous administration.

Jackson also administered the oath to Trotman’s fellow executive officers: Executive Vice President Joshua Davis, Executive Treasurer Amiracle Green and Executive Secretary Aaron McNeil, as well as committee members and fellow senators.

In his inaugural address, Trotman thanked God, his mother, family, mentors and the university community for shaping his path. He recalled applying for the SGA Freshman Internship Program before stepping on campus, an experience that sparked his desire to serve. Although he lost his first campaign as a freshman representative, he said the setback pushed him to return stronger as a College of Business senator and later as SGA treasurer.

“My journey is proof that leadership is not about where you start but about your willingness to keep going, to keep growing and to keep serving,” Trotman said. “If you stay hungry, faithful and determined, there is nothing at Alabama State University or in life that you cannot achieve.”

He said his administration will work to revive Hornet pride on the yard, in the classroom and in the stands on game day.

“That spirit is more than just school pride; it is the heartbeat of Alabama State,” he said. “This year, we will revive it, strengthen it and carry it everywhere we go.”

He emphasized unity and service as the foundation of progress.

“This presidency belongs not to me but to every student who dares to dream, who speaks up and who continues to contribute to the legacy of Hornet Nation,” he said. “True progress happens when we come together, when we set aside differences and when we push forward with a shared commitment to excellence.”

Trotman also acknowledged his mentors for their guidance and support, saying their encouragement reminded him that leadership is never built alone but through the collective strength of others. He closed by thanking the student body for trusting him to represent their voices and concerns.

“Every step I take in this role is on behalf of you,” he said. “This moment belongs to you just as much as it does to me.”

SGA Senate Parliamentarian Moses Tyree III, a College of Education representative now serving his third year in SGA, said he is confident in the new administration.

“As senators, we advocate for the student body by addressing concerns and issues students may have,” Tyree said. “This year’s committee will be very effective. We have many veteran SGA members, and I believe they are ready to do the work for the student body and Alabama State University.”

For freshman Jashaun Williams, a social work major, the ceremony was an inspiring introduction to campus life.

“This was my first inauguration, but it won’t be my last. I plan to keep coming back,” Williams said. “I love SGA, and I love everything school-related. When I came here, I already knew this was going to be my family. I knew this was where I belonged.”

SGA’s Publicity and Awareness Chair Breina McMichael, now serving her third year in student government, said she wants to ensure students’ voices remain at the center of SGA’s work.

“This year is really about listening more to the student body and figuring out what we actually need as students on Alabama State’s campus,” McMichael said. “I want to encourage students never to stop, to keep pushing for what they want, and not to plan on taking no for an answer.”

In an exclusive interview with The Hornet Tribune before the inaugural address, Trotman outlined five priorities that he wanted to accomplish for his administration.

“A few of the main items we are trying to push through with the agenda include making sure every student knows what the constitution is within SGA,” Trotman said. “A lot of students are not familiar with what we do in the Student Government Association, so that is one of the main priorities.”

Reviving campus spirit is also high on his list, with plans to reintroduce pep rallies and bring back the once-popular Street Team program. He emphasized the importance of increasing participation in town hall meetings, explaining that student concerns must be voiced publicly to be effectively addressed.

“Transparency and open communication will guide every initiative, and the final priority is expanding student involvement in decision-making to ensure all voices are represented,” Trotman said.

Trotman said it is a heavy responsibility stepping into the role of the president.

“It is really joyous to be able to serve Alabama State University,” he said. “It means a lot to carry the legacy of our past presidents, because as President Ross says, ‘Our students are most precious.’”