Sam Watson named executive director of Strategic Communications & Marketing at SC State
Veteran communicator to lead integrated brand, media and digital strategy for South Carolina State University
Watson will oversee the university’s executive communications, brand strategy, media relations, marketing campaigns, merchandising, social media, digital imaging, website management, and radio operations.
Under the leadership of President Alexander Conyers, Watson will partner with campus leaders to align messaging with enrollment, advancement, academic and student success priorities. He also will work with General Counsel Nashiba Boyd to ensure consistent, accurate and timely communications related to legal, policy and public information matters.
“Sam brings seasoned judgment, creative energy and a deep understanding of our mission,” Conyers said. “His extensive media experience, management successes and record of communications excellence make him the right choice to elevate Strategic Communications and Marketing to new heights.
“His leadership will help us share SC State’s story with clarity and impact, reaching local, national and international audiences, strengthening our visibility, and advancing our reputation as a leading public teaching and research institution,” Conyers said.
Having joined SC State in February 2021 as public information officer, Watson has served as director of University Relations since July 2022. During his tenure leading university communications, Watson has strengthened SC State’s public relations and media engagement strategy, resulting in significant national visibility and consistent positive coverage across major outlets. He also guided the redevelopment of the university’s website, working closely with academic and administrative units to create content that highlights SC State’s programs, achievements and impact.
“I’m truly grateful for the confidence President Conyers has placed in me,” Watson said. “It’s an honor to share the story of this remarkable university and the people who make it so special. SC State has momentum, purpose and pride, and I’m excited to be part of the team driving that forward. We have an outstanding team of communications professionals who effectively contribute to that effort every day.”
Before arriving at SC State, Watson built a 35-year career in journalism, serving as a photographer, reporter and editor for newspapers in Tennessee. He concluded that chapter as managing editor of a daily publication, where he oversaw newsroom operations and guided coverage of community, state and national issues.
A Kingsport, Tennessee, native, Watson earned a Bachelor of Science in English/journalism from Tennessee Technological University in 1988.