|
Michael Coaxum is helping advance the mission of SC State Public Service & Agriculture (SC State PSA) by ensuring the responsible stewardship of resources that support research, Extension and public service programs across South Carolina.
As director of finance for SC State PSA, Coaxum oversees state and federal funding that supports educational outreach, research initiatives and community engagement efforts. Working closely with senior leadership, he provides strategic financial guidance while strengthening internal controls and improving financial and operational processes, driving overall organizational success.
With more than two decades of experience in higher education, K-12 education, nonprofit organizations and the private sector, Coaxum brings a broad perspective to financial leadership. His career has been built on a commitment to accountability, transparency and service, values that continue to guide his work today.
Throughout his tenure at SC State University, Coaxum has held progressive roles in fiscal and grants management. He has supported audits, guided faculty and administrators through the grant life cycle and helped ensure compliance and accountability for numerous sponsored projects. These experiences have reinforced the critical role financial systems play in supporting long-term sustainability and institutional excellence.
Prior to joining SC State, Coaxum served as a finance and operations manager for a public charter school and held leadership roles in banking, nonprofit organizations and the private sector. Each experience strengthened his understanding of resource management, organizational operations and the importance of building systems that support people and mission-driven work.
A graduate of Claflin University, Coaxum earned both a Master of Business Administration and a Bachelor of Science in business administration. He is also a member of Leadership South Carolina's Class of 2025, reflecting his commitment to professional growth and civic leadership.
At SC State PSA, Coaxum views financial leadership as more than managing budgets. His work helps create opportunities for students, supports innovation and ensures programs have the resources needed to make a lasting impact across the state.
“Strong financial stewardship is about more than numbers,” Coaxum said. “It is about creating opportunities, building trust and ensuring that every resource is aligned with the mission of serving communities and improving lives.”
Through his dedication to fiscal responsibility, strategic leadership and operational excellence, Coaxum continues to strengthen SC State PSA's ability to deliver meaningful programs and services that benefit South Carolina's citizens for generations to come.
| 
