Southern University’s first female student body president dies

BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First) — The Southern University community is mourning the death of Roena Wilford, the university’s first female student body president and former physics professor.

Wilford died on Wednesday, April 2. The university honored her as a trailblazer after she was elected as the first female Student Government Association president in 1970.

“Ms. Wilford’s impact on Southern University, the Baton Rouge community, and beyond is immeasurable,” SU Chancellor John K. Pierre said. “Her leadership, service, and dedication to uplifting others have left an indelible mark on our institution and all who had the privilege of knowing her.”

As a Southern student, she majored in physics and math education. She attended LSU to earn a Master of Arts and education specialist degree.

She was involved in the Baton Rouge community, serving as a Girl Scouts site organizer and troop leader and Sunday school teacher at Mount Carmel Baptist Church. She was also a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. She aided in organizing the Greater Baton Rouge Pan-Hellenic Council.

“She loved her sorority dearly and was committed to soaring to greater heights in sisterhood and service. Though our hearts are broken, we are grateful for the profound impact and legacy she leaves behind,” AKA’s Nu Gamma Omega chapter said.

Wilford’s funeral services are set for Saturday, April 12, at Mount Carmel Baptist Church.

Latest News