UNDERGRADUATE SPOTLIGHT LEADERSHIP
“LEADERSHIP IS ABOUT CREATING SYSTEMS THAT HELP OTHERS SUCCEED.” - Jaden G. York, Grand Board Member
with accountability and ends with ser- vice. His experience working alongside other undergraduate leaders under the Junior Grand Vice Polemarch’s direction has shaped how he views teamwork. “To support the Junior Grand Vice Polemarch’s vision, I’m focused on collaboration, accountability, and mentorship,” he said. “By sharing best practices across provinces and engaging alumni mentors, we can create a unified team of capable leaders committed to upholding Kappa’s principles.” Whether advocating for diversity in education or mentoring young men on campus, Jaden’s purpose remains consistent: to serve and to empower. His commitment to equity is visible in every initiative he undertakes, from campus conferences to state programs, all designed to uplift marginalized voices and expand opportunity. “I want to help prepare undergraduates for success within and beyond Kappa,” he said. “When we strengthen each other, we strengthen the bond.” With his sights set on public policy and law, Jaden intends to continue blending advocacy with action. His long-term goal is to influence edu- cational policy and expand access to opportunities for underrepresented communities. Every role he takes on: scholar, fraternity leader, advocate, sharpens his focus and deepens his commitment to the values that define Kappa Alpha Psi®. “Leadership is about leaving things better than you found them,” he said. “It’s about legacy, service, and responsibility.” Grand Board Member York stands as a symbol of what’s possible when preparation meets purpose. ♦
Baton Rouge. Only one month after his initiation, his peers named him Brother of the Month in recognition of his energy, commitment, and organi- zational skill. “I want to strengthen undergraduate engagement, leadership development, and accountability across all chapters. By building effective systems and promoting unity, we can leave a lasting impact that enhances the
Dean’s Lists at Southern University, a reflection of his drive to excel. On campus, Jaden’s leadership footprint is extensive. He has served as Chief-of-Staff in the Student Govern- ment Association (SGA), Activities Coordinator in the Men’s Federation, and Mentoring Chair for Collegiate 100. He is also a member of Top Jags, a campus leadership organization that promotes scholarship, service, and school spirit. He has also demonstrated an ability to bring people together around meaningful causes. From organizing a Men’s Leadership Conference on campus to spearheading voter educa- tion initiatives, his work exemplifies Kappa’s core principles of achievement and service. His experience as a Con- gressional Black Caucus Intern further expanded his understanding of policy and advocacy. Recently, he launched the Louisiana Governor’s Fellowship Alumni Associ- ation, connecting former participants to share resources, mentorship, and service opportunities. “Leadership is about creating systems that help others succeed,” he shared. “We don’t lead to be recognized; we lead to build.” His involvement in Kappa has rein- forced his belief that leadership begins
fraternity’s legacy,” he asserts. Beyond the fraternity, he has
distinguished himself as both a scholar and a campus force. A participant in the 2024 Louisiana Governor’s Fellow Program with the Disability Services Department and a Cedric Richmond Scholar, he’s already working at the intersection of policy and people, seeing firsthand how decisions made in the capitol ripple into everyday lives. He is also deeply involved with the Thurgood Marshall College Fund, advocating for scholarship access and resources for HBCU students across the nation. “The goal is to connect opportunity with need,” he explained. “When we expand access to scholar- ships and partnerships, we create the conditions for excellence to thrive.” His academic discipline and leader- ship in civic engagement earned him recognition on the President’s and
FALL 2025 ♦ THE JOURNAL 45
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