National President, JAG Career Association
Austin Christopher Small
Grambling, Louisiana
Austin Christopher Small, born in Shreveport, Louisiana, is the 2025–2026 National President of the JAG Career Association, proudly representing more than 80,000 students across the country. Now a student at Grambling State University, majoring in Elementary Education with a minor in Political Science, Austin has committed his life to serving students and uplifting youth across Louisiana and beyond.
As the oldest of four boys, Austin’s upbringing was marked by resilience, shaped by periods of housing and food insecurity that taught him the importance of hope, purpose, and service. It was in high school at Woodlawn Leadership Academy where he discovered JAG—thanks to his JAG Specialist, Ms. Sherika Clay. That introduction changed everything.
Austin quickly rose to leadership, serving as President of his local JAG chapter, State President for JAG-Louisiana, and ultimately being elected by his peers as the 2024-25 national JAGCA President-elect. He has spoken at national events like the NASWA Summit, led workshops, judged competitions, and traveled to meet and inspire JAG students across the country.
“JAG gave me a voice and helped me believe in myself as a leader,” Austin says. “It helped me realize my future doesn’t have to be defined by my past.”
Austin’s goals as National President include expanding JAG’s reach, strengthening student leadership networks, and amplifying the stories of JAG students across the nation. He hopes to one day serve as Louisiana’s State Superintendent of Education, transforming the systems that serve students and communities.
Austin is living proof that with mentorship, opportunity, and belief—young people can change the world.
Favorite quote:
“Your current situation is not your final destination.”