February 9, 2021
Dear Trojan Community,
It is my pleasure to announce two new appointments to the USC leadership team.
First, I am pleased to announce the appointment of Kyle Henley as USC’s Senior Vice President of Communications, effective March 15. Kyle is an experienced and innovative leader in the field of communications with a passion for higher education and its ability to transform people’s lives. He comes to us from the University of Oregon, where he was Vice President of Communications leading the university’s marketing and communications efforts.
Kyle brings a breadth of experience that will strengthen USC’s strategic vision for communicating its mission, service and impact. His track record is one of successful collaboration, dynamism and partnership with faculty, staff, students, alumni and community.
Kyle comes from Southern California, and started his career as a journalist. He has a journalist’s awareness for identifying key issues and elevating compelling stories. His prior communications work included both corporate and agency work in media and public relations.
He has been in higher education for the past 10 years. First at Colorado State University, and most recently at the University of Oregon, Kyle has been a visible presence around campus, known for his strong relationships with campus and the broader community. He is passionate about creating cohesive cross-university communications.
In his five years at Oregon, he built a 70-person team with an emphasis on digital first. He understands the fast-paced landscape of communications. Inheriting an experienced and dedicated team here, he will work to ensure that USC’s groundbreaking work in research, academics and institutional priorities continue to rise to national and international prominence.
I am also pleased to announce the appointment of Sam Garrison as USC’s Senior Vice President for University Relations, effective immediately. As the interim head of University Relations since February 2019, Sam has provided exceptional leadership for USC’s community engagement and government affairs. He leads an accomplished team and is creating new opportunities for USC to demonstrate leadership, partnership and commitment to communities across the region.
I would also like to announce that Glenn Osaki will transition to the role of Senior Advisor to the President for International Marketing and Communications when Kyle comes on board next month. Glenn’s extensive experience working in international markets – especially across Asia Pacific – will be instrumental as the university expands its reach across the globe. USC is one of the country’s top destinations for international students and is a leading institution for collaborative research and study among peers in higher education around the world.
Over the last year, Glenn has tirelessly led USC’s communications efforts during the pandemic and collaborated across our entire institution to ensure our community is well-informed and kept abreast of COVID-19 developments in a timely fashion. He will report to Kyle in this newly established position.
Please join me in welcoming Kyle to USC, congratulating Sam on his well-deserved appointment and wishing Glenn the best in his new role.
Sincerely,
Carol L. Folt
President