Marin Sanders

Highly motivated and detail-oriented marketing communications specialist. Demonstrated proficiency in branding, graphic design, photography, event planning, media writing, web development, and social media management. 

Adept at conceptualizing and executing comprehensive marketing strategies, managing corporate branding guidelines, and transforming technical data into engaging marketing content. Proven track record of delivering high-quality publications, developing targeted communication strategies, and leading programs that drive organizational goals. 

In 2019, I jumpstarted my professional career at Aiken Electric Cooperative (AEC) as the Marketing & Communications Intern, providing me early exposure to public relations, graphic design, and member engagement. After just one year, I was promoted to a part-time position, Marketing & Communications Associate, where I strengthened my project coordination and creative design skills, contributing to various initiatives that highlighted the cooperative’s mission. 

I built a solid foundation in marketing communications at AEC, and upon finishing my junior year of undergrad, I accepted the role of Digital Content Intern at the University of South Carolina Aiken (USCA). In this position, I focused on digital storytelling, social media management, and content strategy, refining my ability to engage diverse audiences and adapt to the unique communication needs of higher education within our ever-changing digital world. 

With one semester left in undergrad, I accepted a position with the Virginia, Maryland & Delaware Association of Electric Cooperatives (VMDAEC) as the Public Affairs Coordinator. In this role, I gained invaluable experience in lobbying, legislative engagement, and strategic communications. I worked closely with policymakers, created strategic plans to build awareness and encourage support for proposed legislation, and established cooperative advocacy efforts. This position allowed me to develop a deeper understanding of legislative processes and the power of targeted communication in influencing policy.

When VMDAEC restructured in June of 2024, I was offered the role of Creative Services Representative to support our member publication, Cooperative Living Magazine. In this capacity, I oversee the production of “local pages” for 13 cooperatives across three states, blending skills in writing, photography, and layout design to craft content that resonates with over 1.2 million readers. This progression has allowed me to refine my creative and strategic abilities, culminating in a well-rounded expertise in communications, advocacy, and design.

In May 2023, I earned a Bachelor of Arts in Communication with a Digital Marketing cognate from the University of South Carolina Aiken, graduating with a 3.3 GPA. In my junior year, I was recognized for scholastic excellence in communication with the Ernestine B. Law Journalism Scholarship. Shortly after, I was inducted into the National Communication Honor Society and was named President of the USC Aiken chapter by the chairman of our school; I was reelected the following year and served a second term as a senior. 

I was actively engaged on campus and held leadership roles in various organizations throughout my college career. I served as Student Media Senator for the Student Government Association and was elected to the University Judicial Board by faculty. I joined Lambda Chi Alpha Fraternity in my freshman year and held several officer positions throughout college: Vice President I, Alumni Relations Chairman, Recruitment Chairman, and Social Media Director. 

These experiences allowed me to develop a strong foundation in leadership, strategy, and collaboration — skills that have translated seamlessly in the professional world.