Student Leadership in Action: GSGA’s New Initiatives
Published: November 27, 2025
Author: Liz Dowell
When Olivia Anderson arrived on Greenville University’s campus as a first-year student, she was struck by the warmth and welcome she felt from the Greenville Student Government Association (GSGA). Now serving as student body president, she is determined to extend that same sense of belonging to others.
“I have always had a drive for leadership,” Anderson said. “During my freshman year, GSGA created such a welcoming atmosphere at all their programs. I wanted to help provide that same experience for the next class of students.”
This year, Anderson and her cabinet have committed themselves to one guiding word: intention. Their focus is to make every student—new or returning—feel that they belong at Greenville University and are loved by the people around them.
That intentionality is shaping new initiatives aimed at broadening GSGA’s reach. Recognizing the challenge of serving a diverse student body, the cabinet is working to ensure that all voices are heard.
The co-directors of Student Relations will lead expanded outreach, and new programs are being planned to highlight the international cultures represented on campus.
One of GSGA's most visible forums is the Student Senate, overseen by Student Body Vice President Jorgi Dupureur. The Senate provides a space where students can voice concerns and propose solutions. Additionally, GSGA regularly circulates polls and surveys to gather input on decisions that impact the student body.
The results of these efforts are already evident in campus life. Each fall, GSGA hosts the Back to School Bash during New Student Orientation weekend—a celebration complete with food, activities, and music. For Anderson, this event embodies the heart of GSGA's mission.
“Watching students interact and gather, you can see the community beginning to form,” she reflected.
For Anderson and her fellow cabinet members, leadership at Greenville is not just about planning events or passing resolutions; it is about fostering a culture of excellence. It is about cultivating joy, purpose, and faith.
“We all agree that the reason we are in leadership is to serve the Kingdom of God,” she said. “Remembering this keeps us accountable in our work and drives us toward a greater purpose.”
Serving as president has stretched Anderson in unexpected ways. She has learned patience, the importance of listening first, and the power of servant leadership. “It has given me opportunities to serve others in a way that reflects Jesus’ example—not for recognition, but to genuinely uplift others. I couldn’t be more grateful for this opportunity.”
As Anderson and her peers look ahead, they see a student-driven future—one built on intentional leadership, diverse representation, and faith-centered activities across all aspects of campus life.
