Success is synonymous with student achievement at the School of Journalism and Mass Communication, newly appointed director Damion Waymer says. And he's prepared to take calculated risks to continue, and to improve upon, this success.
He has seen the rewards of risk-taking and is ready to take risks head-on, breaking barriers for the school, students and faculty.
Waymer earned a corporate communication undergraduate degree at the College of Charleston before continuing his academic success at Purdue University, earning his master’s and doctorate in communications, both in public relations.
He has been recognized with several prestigious awards, most recently, as a distinguished alumnus at Purdue University College of Liberal Arts.
He joins SJMC from the University of Alabama, where he served as senior associate dean of the College of Communications and Information.
Having grown up in Orangeburg, South Carolina, Waymer is excited to bring his talents and abilities home to the state’s flagship university. He is confident in his abilities to help advance SJMC, propelling the next generation of communicators. Waymer says he envisions the school’s becoming a regional and national research, career readiness and teaching excellence leader.
Waymer is proud to show off what SJMC offers employers.
When asked what success looks like to him, Waymer says, “Success is the students; it’s why we are here. If our students are successful and career-ready that is success.”
“The faculty is at the front line of helping these students succeed.”
As a professor himself, Waymer knows what it takes to ensure students are equipped to thrive in the workforce.
“Come sit in on a senior seminar and see how the students are being prepared for the industry,” Waymer says. “Or sit in one of the public relations or advertising capstone courses to see the clients and the real-world work the students are doing. The proof is in the pudding.”
SJMC Dean Tom Reichert expresses equal enthusiasm.
“Dr. Waymer will set the tone for the J-school’s next 100 years of success,” Reichert says. “His energy and administrative experience will be vital assets in guiding the school’s evolution to meet student and industry needs.”
Reichert and the J-school, eagerly anticipate the future — with Waymer’s passion for student and faculty success.