Great Grads 2025: Justin Nixon

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Justin Nixon, a proud member of the Johnson C. Smith University Class of 2025, has left an indelible mark on the campus community. As the JCSU's 80th Student Government Association president, Nixon has led with vision, humility and a deep commitment to service.

"It has been a transformative experience.  I have been able to step into different leadership roles."

Reflecting on his four-year journey at the only Historically Black College and University in Charlotte, Nixon describes his experience as life-changing.  Among his most visible moments was in 2024, when he took the stage inside historic Biddle Hall for a major Lyceum event. Nixon was selected to interview Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and author of The 1619 Project, Nikole Hannah-Jones, before a packed audience in Gambrell Auditorium.

"I have been able to lead events, lead conversations and create proposals that have helped transform how we look at Student Support Services and Student Engagement."

Despite the spotlight and accolades, Nixon remains grounded.

“I’ve enjoyed building meaningful relationships with peers, faculty and administrators, and maximizing the overall experience,” he said.

A native of Maryland, Nixon has embraced his time at JCSU as both a privilege and a platform to grow.

“I’ve found the experience incredibly fulfilling,” he said. “Being SGA president allowed me to serve as a liaison between students and the administration—and to help shape the student experience in real time.”

For Nixon,  matriculation at Smith has been an evolutionary experience of give and take.

"I have been very satisfied and transformed by the experience," he said.

As he prepares to graduate, Nixon is already looking ahead. He plans to pursue a Master of Public Policy at the University of Maryland, where he has been offered a graduate assistantship and stipend.

With a future fueled by purpose and preparation, Nixon is confident his commitment to excellence will endure long into the future.