Jacksonville, AL – Jacksonville State University (JSU) has announced the appointment of Katie Edwards as its new Chief Marketing Officer, effective July 21. A 2004 JSU graduate, Edwards brings over two decades of experience in marketing, broadcasting, content creation, and community engagement to the role.
Edwards’ connection to JSU extends beyond her academic background in English and Communication. She was named Miss JSU in 2003 and has remained actively involved with her alma mater in various capacities. Most recently, she served as a content creator for JSU’s Office of Alumni Engagement, where she produced monthly alumni spotlight features and led social media initiatives, including the CASE award-winning “Cocky Business” campaign that promotes alumni-owned enterprises.
Her professional background includes leadership roles such as Director of Marketing at Anniston Orthopaedic Associates and co-founder of High School Football Alabama, a digital media startup where she spearheaded brand strategy, sales, and social media development. Early in her career, Edwards gained experience in local broadcasting as a morning show host and news anchor for TV24 and WHMA Radio.
“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 her new role, Edwards will oversee JSU’s marketing strategy, collaborating across departments to enhance the university’s visibility and support institutional goals in enrollment, advancement, and engagement.
“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.”
Kelli Holmes, Associate Vice President for Philanthropy, welcomed the announcement. “We’re thrilled about the expertise and energy she brings to this role,” Holmes said. “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.”
