VERMILLION – Brookings native Josh Sorbe was elected University of South Dakota Student Government Association president in late February, with record high voter turnout.

Sorbe is a sophomore at USD studying political science and economics.

His term as president lasts for one year. 

As president, Sorbe will serve as a representative of the student population, will serve on a variety of committees and will help provide input and recommendations on university policy.

“Really, we’re the go-to people when it comes to students,” Sorbe said.

One of his goals for his time as president is to enhance communication among South Dakota’s six public schools. 

Another goal he has is to make sure student input is considered while USD searches for its next president.

“Our current president, (James) Abbott, has been here for 21 years and was an alumni of USD. He’s an icon here at the school, so him announcing retirement and a new president being on board around May or June really does put students a little bit on edge,” Sorbe said.

Sorbe is no stranger to prominent student leadership positions. He served as the national president of Family, Career and Community Leaders of America from 2015-2016 and then on its board of directors, representing the membership body of 161,000 students.

He’s also part of the men’s swim team at USD and holds several school records with three podium finishes at the 2017 Summit League Conference Championships.

Contact Eric Sandbulte at esandbulte@brookingsregister.com.