The sunset casts a peaceful glow over the university as the community remembers their beloved educator.
The Myrtle Beach community, alongside the Coastal Carolina University family, is in mourning following the unexpected death of Travis Overton. Overton, who served as the vice president for executive initiatives and chief of staff at CCU, was known for his unwavering dedication to students and faculty alike. His significant contributions to student affairs and community involvement left a lasting impact. The university is now offering resources for grief support and planning initiatives to honor his legacy.
As the sun set on December 31, 2024, Myrtle Beach—and indeed the entire Coastal Carolina University (CCU) community—found itself enveloped in a profound sense of loss following the untimely passing of Travis Overton. Serving as the vice president for executive initiatives and chief of staff at CCU, Overton had become a familiar and cherished figure on campus since his arrival in July 2007. His dedication and warmth had touched the lives of countless students, faculty, and staff members, making his departure all the more heart-wrenching.
In his role at the university, Overton wore many hats. Just weeks before his passing, he took on the interim position of leader for University Belonging and Student Affairs. This responsibility saw him oversee key initiatives, including CHANT411, information technology services, event scheduling, and marketing communication—demonstrating his remarkable versatility and commitment to supporting the vibrant campus community.
Overton’s journey at CCU was marked by significant contributions to student affairs. He previously held the roles of vice president of student rights and responsibilities and dean of students, developing a reputation for advocating for student needs in areas like housing, fraternity and sorority life, and off-campus services. His work in these various sectors showcased his unwavering commitment to ensuring that every student felt valued and supported throughout their academic journey.
University President Michael Benson shared his sentiments about Overton with a heavy heart. He described him as someone who was tirelessly committed to enriching the university experience for everyone involved. From passionate students to dedicated faculty and staff, Overton’s impact rippled through the entire institution, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose.
Many colleagues and students were quick to echo those feelings, referring to Overton as a “Swiss Army knife,” a testament to his eclectic skill set and readiness to help out whenever needed. His engaging personality, combined with his profound care for the campus, made him a beloved presence among all who knew him.
Outside of the university, Overton was also deeply invested in the broader Myrtle Beach community. He played an active role with Conway Downtown Alive, serving as vice president on its board. His contributions were not just about leadership; they were marked by energy and enthusiasm, with local leaders praising his ability to move the organization forward into a new and exciting era.
Originally hailing from the Nashville area, Overton was also a proud member of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., and served as an advisor for the African American Initiative for Men at CCU, showing his dedication to mentorship and community service. With two degrees from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga—one bachelor’s and an MBA—his academic credentials complemented his commitment to student development.
In light of the tragedy, Coastal Carolina University is proactively offering counseling resources to help faculty, staff, and students process their grief. Further initiatives to honor Overton and commemorate his legacy are in the works and will be announced in the days ahead.
While the cause of Overton’s death has not yet been clarified, his legacy as a passionate educator, community leader, and friend will undoubtedly live on in the hearts of those he inspired. The Myrtle Beach community, along with individuals from afar, mourns the loss of a remarkable individual whose life was dedicated to service and making a difference.
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