by Shawn Nowlin
Jayveon Tucker, 18, has actively been part of student government since he was a standout pupil at Woodrow Wilson Middle School. Making those around him feel heard and supported has been a passion of his for as long as he can remember.
Early on, it was evident that Tucker would be a leader in life, not a follower. Serving as President of the Roanoke NAACP Youth Council for a few years taught him the importance of having your actions speak louder than words.
During a community gathering earlier this year to honor the life of Tyre Nichols, an unarmed man murdered by Memphis police, Tucker said, “Nothing will ever justify why Tyre used his last breath screaming for help. But knowing the people that could help him were actually the people killing him and beating away his last breath.”
A highly decorated high school student, Tucker says walking across the stage to earn his Patrick Henry High diploma was one of the best days of his life. Getting accepted into Norfolk State University (NSU) to further his education is another memorable day.
Tucker says he doesn’t just want to get a college degree, he wants to surround himself with like-minded people that will hold him accountable and play a role in him reaching his full potential.
Having the opportunity to be part of NSU’s student government body was too good for Tucker to pass up. Within a few weeks of arriving on campus, he thoroughly did his due diligence to see how he could get involved and make a difference.
“I went to the elections interest meeting to get a better understanding of things. Learn about the available positions which were President, Vice President, Mr. Freshman and Mrs. Freshman,” he said. “I noticed another student sitting by herself, so I went over and introduced myself. After a comforting conversation with Isabella Norman, I said, ‘Regardless of the position you are running for, I just want to get involved and be supportive.’”
Continuing, Tucker added, “Staying humble is a key to life. Regardless of what I’ve accomplished, that doesn’t make me better than anyone. Once it was clear that Isabella and I had the same vision, we decided to run on the same ticket. Running our campaign is one of the hardest things I’ve ever done. Earning the trust of people who don’t know you is very hard.”
In the beginning, more than 60 students were vying for the Freshman President and Vice President positions. Jayveon and Isabella learned of their victory while attending a school party.
In his new role, Tucker’s responsibilities will consist of engaging with the student body on a regular basis and properly managing the allotted budget for activities, entertainment and other things. The position also requires serving as a student voice to the administration.
Reflecting on just how much his life has changed in the last year, Tucker said, “Like most first-year college students, I had a lot of anxiety when I arrived on campus. Pushing myself out of my comfort zone is one of the best decisions that I’ve ever made. I’m exciting to make more memories as my Norfolk State University journey continues.”
