Yale University has its first Black student body president in its history, reports the Huffington Post.
Kahill Greene was elected in April and starts his position the fall. The junior campaigned on a four-part plan that included fostering a safer, healthier and more equitable campus culture. The Maryland native told Fox 5 News Wednesday that he was inspired to run for president to “amplify the voices of the underserved communities on campus, especially students of color. So being the first Black president, I feel like I’m in the position where I can really do that.”
Greene, who is an economics major, served on the Yale College Council prior to his election as president. He also said that he thinks Yale can be a more “diverse and inclusive” campus and that he’s grateful to be in a position where he can help make that happen. Greene paid homage to Black influential figures who have made history at Yale. He mentioned Edward Bouchet, who is recognized as the first African American to earn a Ph.D. at any American university when he received his doctorate in physics at Yale in 1876.
When asked for his advice to other students who may want to pursue leadership positions at their institutions, Greene said: “You don’t necessarily grow up thinking you’re going to be the first person to do anything in this world, but if you work hard and you dream big, it can and will happen.”
