When Josie Tolsma first arrived at Georgia Highlands Cartersville campus as a freshman, she did not know how she would fit in. A good student but not heavily involved in extracurriculars, she quickly found a community that welcomed her and encouraged her to take on new opportunities.
That support inspired her to step into student leadership and now, as the newly elected Student Government Association president, Tolsma is ready to make her mark.
Tolsma wears GHC merch as she poses for a portrait by the fireplace on the Cartersville campus.
“I felt like if I can help out with student engagement, community work and fundraisers, why not,” Tolsma said, reflecting on what drew her to SGA. She first ran for president during her freshman year, earning the role of vice president instead.
Last year, when the previous president stepped down due to other commitments, Tolsma assumed the position and gained experience she now brings to her full term as president.
Her time as vice president helped her develop leadership skills she relies on today.
“I had to fill in for meetings, attend public events and represent the school. It gave me a quick rundown on the responsibilities and showed me how to execute as someone who represents Georgia Highlands,” she said.
As president, Tolsma leads meetings, advocates for students and plans events that strengthen campus life. She is organizing a fundraiser for the holiday season where clubs can contribute in their own ways. She hopes the effort will create stronger connections among students and clubs.
Tolsma sits in her former volleyball coach Clifton Puckett’s office, holding a volleyball that was once run over during practice.
She also focuses on supporting student needs, including through the new Allies and Advocates club, which provides a platform for students with disabilities or neurodivergent experiences.
“It’s really important to have leaders in clubs who can advocate for students and bring issues to my attention,” Tolsma said.
Tolsma also wants to encourage more students to get involved with SGA. “I tell everybody how welcoming this school is. There are so many opportunities to get involved, whether it’s sports, hobbies or clubs. I want students to know they have a voice here,” she said.
The most rewarding part of her role has been the connections she has built with faculty, staff and students.
She enjoys helping students make a strong first impression at the school and feel part of the community from day one.
Tolsma hopes her presidency will inspire others to step outside their comfort zones. “I hope more people are encouraged to try new things. If my experience can help even one student feel like they can do the same, that’s a legacy I will be proud of,” she said.
With her approachable leadership style, dedication to student engagement and vision for a connected campus community, Tolsma is poised to leave a lasting impact on SGA and the students she represents.
