Katie Edwards Named Chief Marketing Officer at Jacksonville State

07/20/2025

Jacksonville State University has announced Katie Edwards as its new Chief Marketing Officer, effective July 21. A seasoned communications professional and proud Gamecock alumna, Edwards brings more than 20 years of experience in marketing, broadcasting, content creation, and community engagement to the role.  

Her ties to Jax State run deep. A 2004 graduate of the university with degrees in English and Communication, Edwards was crowned Miss JSU in 2003 and has remained actively connected to her alma mater. Most recently, she served as a content creator for the Office of Alumni Engagement, producing monthly alumni spotlight features and leading social media efforts, including the CASE award-winning “Cocky Business” campaign, which highlights alumni-owned businesses and fosters community pride. 

In addition to her recent work at Jax State, Edwards served as Director of Marketing for Anniston Orthopaedic Associates and co-founded High School Football Alabama. At this successful digital media startup, she led brand strategy, sales, and social media efforts.  

“In 2001, I walked into Self Hall and somehow convinced the owners at TV24 to let a 19-year-old Communications major—lacking experience but overflowing with enthusiasm—host a local television morning show every weekday,” Edwards said. “Today, I walk into that same building with the honor of leading Jacksonville State’s marketing efforts. In 24 years, the experience has increased, and the enthusiasm has not waned in the slightest.” 

Edwards began her career in local broadcasting, serving as a morning show host and news anchor for TV24 and WHMA Radio before moving into leadership roles in marketing and sales. A relationship-driven communicator, she has consistently exceeded sales goals, grown digital audiences, and led award-winning campaigns across both nonprofit and corporate settings. 

“Jax State gave me the tools to lead, to communicate, and to serve,” Edwards said. “My professional journey reflects a deep commitment to relationships, community engagement, and brand building—strengths I am eager to give back to the institution that helped shape my path. I am honored, humbled, and excited to help steward its brand into the future.” 

In her new role, Edwards will lead the university’s marketing strategy, working collaboratively across departments to elevate Jax State’s visibility and support enrollment, advancement, and engagement goals. 

“We’re thrilled about the expertise and energy she brings to this role,” said Kelli Holmes, Associate Vice President for Philanthropy. “Katie comes to us with a strong background in marketing, and I’m confident she’ll do a tremendous job as she transitions into the world of higher education.”