by Amanda Respess

G eorgia College & State University President Cathy Cox is featured in Georgia Trend magazine’s March cover story "The Power of Representation: Eight Notable Women to Watch in Georgia."

The cover story asks, “What causes a leader to stand out? The women highlighted here frequently noted hard work, sacrifice, mentorship – receiving and providing it – humility, taking risks and collaboration as key reasons for their success.”

After serving in the Georgia House of Representatives and as Georgia’s first female Secretary of State, President Cox made the leap to higher education in 2007. Cox became the 12th president of Georgia College Oct. 1, 2021, having previously served as president of Young Harris College and dean of Mercer University Law School.

Cox told Georgia Trend, “I knew it was a huge risk, but I also knew this life wouldn’t end if I didn’t win the race [for Secretary of State]. I went for it, and I made it. But had I not taken that risk, a million other doors wouldn’t have opened for me that have been even more fulfilling for my life than I ever dreamed of.”

At this point in her career, Cox has spent more time in higher education than in politics. And she relishes connecting with college students.

“I’m known for taking selfies on campus,” Cox told Georgia Trend. “I love being out with our students and knowing as much about them as possible so I can know more ways to help them pursue their dreams.”

Previously, President Cox was named to this year’s Georgia Trend list of "Notable Georgians," the publication’s ‘Georgia 500’ list in 2023 and nine times to its “100 Most Influential Georgians” list.

A native of Bainbridge, Georgia, Cox served as a state legislator and two terms as Secretary of State, the first woman in Georgia elected to the Constitutional office. Her distinguished career in law, education, politics and journalism embodies what it means to have a liberal arts background, which is at the heart of GCSU’s mission.

Header Photo: President Cox stands on the front porch of Atkinson Hall. (Photo courtesy of Georgia Trend)