On Jan. 20, Barack Obama became the 44th president of the U.S., and the nation’s first-ever African American commander in chief. Students at SCAD-Atlanta recently shared their thoughts on the historical moment.
I think he’s really inspiring because he’s not conventional. He thinks and speaks for all parties. He knows politics well. Even though he’s not Republican, he can bring everyone together.
Lesly Washington
Second-year
Fashion Market
I can understand why people are excited about Obama but there are also people who are exploiting him because they’re treating him more like a celebrity than a politician because of all the merchandise they’re selling.
Joel Dobson
Second-year
TV Production
I was excited for a change. I’m ready for our economy to improve.
Nailah DeBeatham
Third-year
Broadcast Design
I feel that he will bring change to the rest of the world. I think he is not conventional. He’s smart. He’s black and he’s sexy.
Sir Ra
Second-year
Film/Television
We have not had a president in a long time who spoke so passionately. Not only he is different, he’s going to make a difference in the world. I’m very happy.
Ron Hedqepeth
Second-year
Fashion Design
I was really glade our Professor wanted us to photograph [the Inauguration Celebration at the Centennial Park.] I mean originally I [thought] “it’s nine degrees outside. I don’t care if it’s a historical event. I don’t know how I can photograph outside.” I get violently ill when it’s cold. It was a great moment though. I mean it was not long ago that anything compared to this was unimaginable. I’m such a history buff that it really was a fantastic and monumental day. The inauguration really made me happy to see how excited and at peace the crowds were really a historical moment indeed need I say more? I’m very happy I photographed it and got the sensation back in my hands and feet within 24 hours.
Jade Shelnut
Second-year
Photography
I really hope that he does change our economy and make our country go in the direction for the better. Not only we do have a new president, but the first African American president. We all witnessed history.
Kalen Curtis
Second-year
Photography
I hope that Obama works on regaining the economy and encourages Americans to renew their faith in the country. We can’t expect him to fix everything. We’ll all have to do our part.
M.H. Thomas
Graduate Student
Photography
I believe that his presidency will actually make changes in our government. He doesn’t have the backing of the oil industry or Wall Street for that matter. He’s new to politics, and so he’s as “untainted’ as you can be in Washington. A lot of people play up the racial ramifications, but I believe that’s not the biggest point here. The point is that we are looking at a president that wants to fix our country, not profit from it, or become some media superstar. I, unlike a lot of Americans, understand that Obama can’t wave a magic wand to fix everything. It will take a long time to fix our economy, or correct the damage done to our constitutional rights during the Bush presidency.
Chris H. Bastedo
Third Year
Digital Video Editing
I feel nervous. I’m glad he was elected; change seems like a good idea for this time and age. But he has a major responsibility ahead of him, and it seems that he will either crash and burn or be a complete success. I hope he pulls up the employment rate.I’ve never realized what a hole we were in until my father’s job security was being questioned.
Ana Marie Ursi
First-year
Photography