For the past 364 days, I’ve had the privilege of interacting with student, state and world-renowned leaders. Yet there are some leaders I have worked with that many people do not know about, leaders who have made my world go round and allowed others to become great. This past year, the SGA would not have been as successful as it was if it were not for someone who inspired me to become better, give more and sacrifice much. There is one leader who, regardless of her remarkable service, has stayed in the shadows.
Rockville’s Wootton High School sent this university a gift. Sumia Ahmad, the Student Government Association’s outgoing chief of staff, has truly inspired not only the individuals with whom she has interacted but also an entire organization. Her passion, motivation and drive to better this university are unmatched by anyone else I have come across. Ahmad prides herself on making others great, but she will avert any attempt at praise or recognition. Her selflessness is unrivaled and sometimes perplexing, and she always knows how improving the character of an individual makes the entire community better.
Ahmad is a senior economics and environmental science and policy major. She has been involved in the SGA during all four years of her college career. She has served as a committee member, executive secretary, director of student groups and chief of staff. Her dedication to the organization has not gone unnoticed by students who work with her on a routine basis. While Ahmad has been recognized in the SGA, winning accolades such as best cabinet member, best committee chair and the recipient of the Bud Thomas SGA award, she will not boast those honors as her true accomplishments in the organization.
Ahmad has helped put together events such as the SGA’s annual Crab Fest and Good Morning Commuters. She also worked to establish Stamp Student Union’s student group resource room for student groups to use on a regular basis to achieve the missions of their respective organizations. Her countless hours dedicated to the SGA have time and time again been the means for success of the entire institution.
Ahmad’s warm and welcoming personality make her an accessible and valued resource. On a daily basis, she has helped the organization run smoothly and efficiently. Throughout the year, she oversaw my entire cabinet, including their individual projects and large-scale events they were chosen to manage. All members of the SGA have grown to rely on Ahmad to help them represent their constituencies and fulfill their service initiatives. During this same time, she not only became my mentor but also one of my closest friends.
My name and face are often highlighted on this newspaper’s pages for the SGA’s accomplishments. However, I can guarantee that none of these endeavors could have occurred without Ahmad. Her perspective, understanding and dedication have created a culture of cooperation within the SGA. Ahmad is my inspiration to make your university and community better every day.
It has been my honor and privilege to serve this university with such an esteemed colleague.
Steve Glickman is the SGA president. He can be reached at SGAPresident at umd dot edu.
