Student Spotlight - Vinciane Ngomsi

Vinciane Ngomsi, a rising junior at Truman State University and a 2010 Luce summer intern, has been called every name in the book—and has even been spat on!—for her conservative beliefs. But that has only encouraged her to be more passionate and aggressive about spreading conservatism on her campus.

Luce talked with Vinciane about her experiences as a conservative leader at Truman State.

Luce: How did you become a conservative?

Vinciane: I became a conservative through research and analyzing. I found myself adhering more to conservative principles than liberal beliefs. My conservatism gained new strength when I became a member of the Truman State College Republicans and learned more about the philosophy of conservative leaders in America.

Luce: As a conservative, what challenges do you face at your school?

Vinciane: The challenges I face at Truman are endless. As an African-American conservative, I'm in an even smaller minority. I was criticized and called names for not supporting President Obama during his election. There was an instance where an individual spat on me because of my affiliation with the Truman College Republicans. It was absolutely disrespectful.

Luce: What is your most memorable activist experience?

Vinciane: My most memorable activist experience came during my freshman year at Truman, when I discovered that the Truman College Democrats were secretly “misplacing” voter registration cards for individuals who had registered as Republicans. In addition, they were campaigning in and around the polls on campus on Election Day in 2008, something that is illegal in Missouri. I, along with the Truman CR’s, contacted officials and asked that they be rightfully disciplined. It was a dishonest practice, and these individuals’ actions deserved to be accounted for.

Luce: Tell us about your experience with hosting a campus lecture

Vinciane: Last year we hosted Star Parker and she was terrific, inspiring and of course, controversial. The College Democrats decided to boycott the event, which was a shame because they missed such an interesting lecture. But, everyone who came believed Star had a lot of interesting things to say. Last year when we hosted Bay Buchanan, she stayed for almost three hours! It was great to see so many young adults interested in immigration, which is my favorite policy issue.

Luce: Who is your favorite conservative woman leader and why?

Vinciane: Condoleezza Rice, by far. She is such an amazing woman with fans in both parties. As an African-American conservative, she has proved that there is not a stereotypical conservative. She never allowed others to undermine her authority. She has an excellent sense of foreign policy, along with logical tactics for national security issues. Her life story is inspiring, and her ability to form close, positive relationships with others shows a lot about her character. She remains reserved, but speaks out when necessary. She considers every option before making a decision, proving that she is a leader and not a follower. She possesses a strong understanding of true cultural diversity, which is one of the things I admire most.

Luce: What advice would you give other conservative students?

Vinciane: Know why you are a conservative and stand firm in those principles. If you come out of a debate/discussion with a liberal and still whole-heartedly believe in your values, then you will be successful. Do not allow others on your campus to intimidate or mock your beliefs. Instead, turn around and challenge them, because they probably do not know half as much as they claim to.

Luce: Where do you hope to be in 10 years?

Vinciane: In 10 years, I hope to be traveling the world as a United States foreign diplomat, with graduate or law school behind me.

"Do not allow others on your campus to intimidate or mock your beliefs."