July 12, 2021 –Jackson Alexander has been named director of the Salkehatchie Leadership Institute (SLI).
“Jackson brings energy and enthusiasm to the Leadership Institute and we are pleased to welcome him to our team,” USC Salkehatchie Dean Chris Nesmith said. “The SLI contributes a vital part of our mission, and I am excited to see his plans and ideas come to life to further engage with and support our communities.”
The Salkehatchie Leadership Institute was established to stimulate economic development in Allendale, Bamberg, Barnwell, Colleton, Jasper, Beaufort and Hampton counties. Because he is a product of rural America, Alexander understands the needs and challenges the region faces.
“If we want to help small communities and towns prosper, we must invest in the human capital of the region. SLI aims to elevate the communities it serves through leadership, community development, economic development and civic engagement. These endeavors align with my own belief that all individuals deserve access to educational and leadership opportunities that bolster their local economies,” Alexander said.
Alexander has a vision for the institute and is ready to showcase what SLI can do.
“I’m thrilled to join the Salkehatchie family and to be part of an institution that plays such an important role in the community. Salkehatchie empowers those across its region through academic and community programming which provides the knowledge and skills needed to cultivate progress,” Alexander said. “I’d like to expand Leadership Salkehatchie, grow our partnerships with local businesses and industries, invest in county leadership programming across the service area, and engage the area’s youth in leadership and career development opportunities.”
Alexander earned his Master in Agricultural and Extension Education from the University of Arkansas and expects to complete his Doctorate in Public Policy and Administration from Mississippi State University in 2022.
