UBSUC vice president elected from Samo
On Nov. 16, Aaliyah McGee (’26) was elected as the second Vice President of Southern California for the United Black Student Unionion, representing Samo on the USBC Board.
Aaliyah McGee / Contributor
Aaliyah McGee (’26) is one of the students
who ran for Vice President and is grateful
for her win.
UBSUC is a platform for Black students all across California, which is divided into three regions: Northern, Central, and Southern. McGee is a part of the Southern region, where many high schools gather for conferences, workshops, and networking events. The board members are responsible for organizing these events, reaching out to colleges for space and speakers, and providing resources such as scholarships and internships for students.
As the Black Student Union (BSU) vice president, McGee is ready to fully participate in this commitment. She said she has always been a fan of fostering community and found this to be an opportunity to make a change.
“I wasn’t going to run at first, but when I realized no one else from my school was running, I thought, ‘Let me just give it a shot,’” said Mcgee.
McGee’s extensive involvement in extracurricular activities has thoroughly shaped her leadership journey. She is a member of the Samo orchestra, cheer and Girl Scouts. Additionally, she organizes an annual event called “Our Girls Rock,” which hosts workshops and seminars on college and career readiness for girls of color. These experiences have deeply shaped her desire to bring diversity and inclusivity into more spaces.
“In a lot of the extracurricular activities I’ve been part of, there’s a lack of diversity, and that made me want to help create a place where people like me can feel seen,” said McGee. "We’re a diverse community, and we shouldn’t cap our future at being in certain career fields, a lot of the times people categorize us like hobbies or activities that you’re supposed to like or do."
McGee’s victory was hard and well-earned; running against two other candidates. McGee said running up against the two candidates felt pressuring, but ultimately was an inspiration to keep fighting for the win. Her message of inclusivity, empowerment and plan of action, resonated with her audience, earning her this amazing role. McGee expressed a mix of pride and responsibility when reflecting on her win.