Survivor. Leader. Mayor: Demetrius Chatman’s strong devotion to SC State University and his community
Chatman will become the first Black mayor of Winnsboro, South Carolina, on July 1.
Elected on April 1, Chatman will become mayor of Winnsboro, South Carolina, the town where his passion for service first took root.
“I got involved because I believe in the potential of Winnsboro,” Chatman said. “I’ve always seen the town as a place where everyone can thrive, and I’m committed to making that vision a reality.”
His election follows years of municipal leadership, including service as a councilmember since 2019, mayor pro tempore and chair of the Finance Committee. His style of governance has always started with listening.
“True leadership begins with listening, understanding the needs of the people, and committing to solutions that bring lasting change,” he said.
His commitment to Winnsboro runs in parallel with his career at SC State, where he has worked since 2007. Beginning as a program assistant in the Title III office, he steadily rose through the ranks and now serves as program manager, administering federal funds meant to support and strengthen historically Black colleges and universities.
“Managing these funds and seeing their positive impact on the university — whether through infrastructure upgrades, student support, or faculty development — has been incredibly rewarding,” Chatman said.
His connection to SC State is deep. He earned his Bachelor of Science in business management there while beginning his career. He went on to complete a Master of Business Administration from Webster University in St. Louis and pursued further graduate studies at the University of South Carolina in Columbia.
“It gave me a chance to prove myself early on, and it has been an incredible ride ever since,” he said. “Climbing the ladder of success here has been a rewarding challenge.”
Recognition followed. He was named Staff Employee of the Year and was honored as one of the university’s inaugural 40 Under 40 class. He is also a graduate of the Leadership Columbia Class of 2013, underscoring his commitment to growth, civic engagement, and leadership development.
But his career faced an unexpected test when he received a diagnosis that threatened to halt his progress.
“A personal challenge I encountered was in 2018 when I was diagnosed with a brain tumor,” he said. “The doctors initially told me that I would have to retire early due to the severity of the situation. They said I wouldn't be able to continue working or living my life the way I had before.”
Rather than retreat, Chatman leaned on faith and determination.
“I chose to put my faith in God and rely on my inner strength,” he said. “Despite the struggles, I continue to work, serve, and live fully, because I know that God has a purpose for me that extends beyond any obstacle I face.”
He now receives weekly treatments but remains active in both of his demanding roles — at the university and in city leadership.
Balancing both is a calling.
“My focus is on contributing to the growth and well-being of my community,” Chatman said. “I believe in the power of education, leadership, and service to create opportunities and overcome challenges.”
As mayor-elect, he continues to prioritize council meetings and local initiatives while overseeing strategic planning and development efforts at SC State. In both spaces, he emphasizes community, collaboration and impact.
“What drives my career and community service is a deep commitment to making a positive and lasting impact,” he said.
That impact is shaped as much by his affiliations — including his service in Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. — as by his own lived experiences. From managing million-dollar federal grants to leading a small-town government, Chatman sees all his efforts as extensions of a singular purpose.
“Leadership is not defined by titles, but by impact,” he said. “And I remain inspired every day by the opportunity to serve, empower, and make a difference wherever I am called.”