Holly Miller
Western Carolina University
Holly Miller, a third-year student at Western Carolina University, is a leader focused on engaging her fellow students in the democratic process. Over the course of the past three years, she has worked tirelessly to encourage her fellow students to vote because she recognizes the power of voting to change lives daily. Leading up to the 2020 general election, members of the Student Democracy Coalition registered close to 1,000 voters, and many of those are directly related to Holly’s sheer determination as she became a powerful force with registering her peers to vote one at a time by way of clip boarding. Holly is the type of leader who “starts with yes” for every idea and will work tirelessly to achieve her goals.
Personal Statement
I was lucky enough to grow up in a household that encouraged civil discourse and asking questions. Throughout my childhood, Saturday nights were filled with lively debates around the dinner table, where my parents constantly pushed me to consider the world from perspectives other than my own. In high school, I had the opportunity to represent students from the western region of North Carolina on a committee with local leaders and government officials. These experiences empowered me to promote civic engagement and to advocate for others. The Student Democracy Coalition at WCU gave me the opportunity to do both of these things. Through this non-partisan organization, I help my peers ensure that their voices are heard by helping them cast an informed ballot during every election cycle. I register voters, help bring candidates to campus, and work with campus and county officials to host an on-campus polling site. After graduating, I plan to pursue a career as an educator. I believe that I can continue to make a positive impact on the world around me by teaching my students how to advocate for themselves and to work together in an increasingly polarized world.
