Isabella Hollingsworth-Sons: Blending Creativity, Communication, and Community at GovState
From student leader to GovState staff member, Isabella Hollingsworth-Sons embodies the power of passion, perseverance, and creativity. As a Communication graduate with a concentration in Advertising and Public Relations, Isabella’s journey is rooted in storytelling—both in branding and through the art of dance.
Growing up, education was central to Isabella’s family values, though her parents placed greater emphasis on effort, growth, and personal impact rather than grades. That mindset led her to GovState, where she found not just an education but an immersive and diverse environment that shaped her personally and professionally. "I remember my orientation and seeing diverse students, faculty, and staff. I realized how much I needed that for my growth," she recalls. Her passion for storytelling and creativity naturally led her to a career in communication, where she thrives in the ever-evolving world of branding and social media.
Isabella’s impact at GovState extended far beyond the classroom. A dedicated dancer since the age of five, she was an active member of the GovState Dance Company, serving as President for two years. She also holds the distinction of being the first student to graduate with a minor in dance from the university. Her leadership extended to the Honors Program Student Council, where she proudly represented GovState at a national conference in Boston. The combination of artistic expression and academic excellence continues to shape her career today.
Now, as Social Media & Brand Assurance Manager at GovState, Isabella brings the same creativity and teamwork she honed in dance to managing the university’s digital presence. One of her greatest challenges is ensuring that GovState’s diverse student body is accurately represented in branding. "I love our tagline—‘You can be anyone and still be GovState.’ It’s important to me that every student, from returning adults to traditional freshmen, feels seen and valued," she explains.
In addition to her role at GovState, Isabella travels across the country as a dance judge, critiquing and uplifting young dancers. Her journey into judging began with an application to one of her favorite competitions, where her dance degree gave her a competitive edge. “I love spending my weekends helping dancers improve—it’s an experience I will always appreciate,” she shares.
For students balancing creative passions with professional ambitions, Isabella’s advice is simple: diversify your portfolio. “Practice your art, but also expand your skills. Having a backup career has saved me many times, and networking is essential. Take internships, explore different work opportunities, and always keep learning.” Looking ahead, she hopes to expand GovState’s student worker programs and advance the university’s online presence. With her creativity, leadership, and commitment to student success, she is shaping the next generation of GovState storytellers and changemakers.
At the GovState Alumni Association, we are proud to celebrate alumni like Isabella, who continue to inspire and make a lasting impact. Her story is a testament to the power of dedication, innovation, and community. Stay connected with GovState Alumni to hear more stories of Jaguar success!
Author: Jocelyn Bell, Alumni Relations Communication Coordinator