Joshua Goshay ’27 is Leading the Way on Campus and at the Ohio House of Representatives

Posted Jul 03, 2024

Political science major Joshua Goshay ’27 isn’t just a future leader — he’s a current leader! A graduate of Beechcroft High School in Columbus, Goshay hit the ground running with campus involvement his first year at Otterbein. He was vice president and treasurer of Men of Vision, a campus tour guide, a Cardinal Caller for the Otterbein Fund, and a student staff member of the Office of Social Justice and Activism. If all of that wasn’t enough, he made time to complete Otterbein’s Van Sant Leadership Program and won the annual Emerging Leader Award for his outstanding leadership and contributions to Otterbein.

But wait, there’s more! Goshay is also the youngest member of the Central Ohio Young Black Democrats and a member of the League of Women Voters. This summer, he is a legislative page for the Minority Caucus at the Ohio House of Representatives. We asked him to tell us more about his experience.

In December 2023, at the age of 18, I was introduced to the Central Ohio Young Black Democrats (COYBD). In January 2024, I officially became a member, making me the organization’s youngest member at that time, a position I still proudly hold at 19 years old. COYBD is an affiliate organization within the Democratic Party in Central Ohio, dedicated to engaging and empowering young Black individuals in politics. We prioritize promoting voter participation, advocating for issues impacting the Black community, and supporting Democratic candidates who share our values and goals. (Although we are catalytic in our work and efforts in the Black community first, we do not limit ourselves in serving as a bridge to the entire community in Central Ohio.)

I completed my first year at Otterbein when I started my legislative page position for the Minority Caucus at the Ohio House of Representatives. I chose to be a page because it is an excellent entry point into my political journey, as well as being a member of COYBD. Not only that, but I also have a passion for public service, and I want to gain firsthand experience in government.

This role provides a unique educational experience outside of Otterbein’s classroom, enhancing my understanding of policymaking. Being a legislative page also allows me to hone my leadership and communication skills, which aligns with my minor in leadership. I am excited and privileged to network with lawmakers and gain insights from seasoned professionals.

One of the most rewarding things about being a legislative page is having direct access to Ohio’s representatives (including my own). It allows me to interact closely with lawmakers and witness their work firsthand while enhancing my networking capabilities.

Another favorite aspect of being a page is my friendships with other pages. These friendships are with individuals with similar aspirations for change and those with different perspectives. It is inspiring to be part of a community of like-minded and diverse individuals passionate about making a difference and actively contributing to our society.

If you are into politics or considering pursuing it, I think this would be a significant first step. The valuable insights, information, and overall experience you will receive from this are like none other.

While I am humbled to have my story featured by Otterbein, the real honor goes to my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Credit also goes to my mother, Reatha Goshay. She has done an excellent job raising me and supporting me in all my endeavors. My mother is my number one “fan,” second to myself.

Thanks are also due to Otterbein University’s Office of Social Justice and Activism (OSJA), run by Dr. Frank Dobson Jr., Selethia Benn, and Kelsy Gibson, who keep me on track. Without the OSJA, my experience would not be what it currently is and what it has been. For me, the OSJA has been a hub of resources and opportunities with endless possibilities. I am thankful for the support of family members, mentors, success coaches, close friends, and to all to whom honor is due.

Be the best you can be. Be the best version of yourself. Every day is a new opportunity to become a better version of the person you were yesterday.

Joshua M. Goshay
Otterbein University Class of 2027

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