Homestead Campus SGA President Resigns Due To Health Issues

Rolanda Schand, who was serving her second year as Student Government Association president at Homestead Campus, has resigned citing complicated health issues and a need to work more, according to her letter of resignation.

Schand , 27, who submitted the letter in mid-October, said she will continue to work closely with SGA as she finishes her degree in Education.

“I want to thank Miami Dade College for the opportunity to serve, and mostly importantly the Homestead Campus for helping me to be a better me,” Schand said. “Dr. Jeanne Jacobs (Homestead Campus President) you are a woman of inspiration, thank you for always believing in me. This has been an experience of a lifetime. With tear filled eyes I must move on.”

Nicole Bryant, the student life director at Homestead, declined comment concerning Schand’s resignation. Abdolpho Leger, who had been serving as vice president, will take over as SGA president, Bryant said.  

According to SGA Homestead Campus bylaws Leger can appoint a new vice president. Leger could not be reached for comment for this story.

Schand, a single mom of a three-year-old child said she maintained her post as SGA president as well as three jobs: at the Institute of Civic Engagement and Democracy, as a mentor at Strong Women, Strong Girls, and in the campaign for a Republican senator.

However, in recent months, she said, the burden got to be a bit much. During the past five months Schand said she has lost fifty pounds and has been hospitalized once.

“It almost felt like I’m letting my team down,” Schand said. “But regardless it would be a let down because I can’t continue with my duties [as president] without jeopardizing my health.”

Schand hopes the Homestead Campus will continue to prosper.

“I am so grateful for this college, the faculty, and staff, but most important you the students.” Schand said. “You have inspired me to be so much more and go above and beyond.”