Education

B.A., College of Journalism and Mass Communications, University of South Carolina
M.B.A., Darla Moore School of Business, University of South Carolina

Background

Result-oriented accredited communications professional with leadership experience with a Fortune 100 telecommunications company, an international manufacturing company, an accredited with distinction state chamber of commerce, universities, K-12 schools, nonprofits, public relations agencies and governmental agencies. Proven success in communications strategy, branding, creative problem solving and team building.

Research and Areas of Interest

Marcia Purday's areas of interest are in strategy, how digitization is impacting the way society communicates, and evolving global demographics.

Teaching

Purday integrates real world experience in the classroom by focusing on teamwork and strategic communications in all of her classes. She is a strong advocate for preparing students for careers in advertising and public relations. Recently, she introduced a special topic courses to help students secure certification in Google Ads and other social media platforms. Purday also teaches Integrated Communication Campaigns, Creative Strategy to Execution, and Speakers Series. Currently, she is exploring the development of other social media courses.

Recent Publications

Are you neglecting your best branding tool?, Midlands Biz. June 2019.

Stakeholder Engagement – A silver approach, Midlands Biz. October 2018.

Service

Purday has served as the Southeastern District Chair and Southeast Secretary of the Public Relations Society of American. She has also served in numerous leadership positions with the South Carolina Chapter of the Public Relations Society of America including President and Assembly Delegate. She is the founder and first chairman of the statewide Mercury Awards program. Purday has also served in several leadership roles with numerous organizations including University Medical Associates at
MUSC, USC School of Journalism & Mass Communications Partnership Board, SC Broadcasters Association and the SC Governor's School for the Arts.

Personal

Purday has won numerous industry awards, but she is most proud of receiving the Two Thumbs Up award from USC for making a signicant difference in the experience of a student with disabilities. When she is not teaching or serving as a consultant, Purday loves to travel, cook, and workout with family and friends. During downtime, she likes to read and paint. She lives with her three children, two dogs and two cats. Her aspiration is to start a vlog, write a book, and maybe join the Peace Corps.