Samuel Garrison is Senior Vice President for University Relations at the University of Southern California, leading a team that advances USC’s mission as an anchor institution, builds a shared vision with campus neighbors, and represents the institution at all levels of government. This includes civic engagement, community partnerships, and government relations for both the university and health system.

Garrison also oversees USC’s longstanding community education programs and public radio network. The university’s neighborhood education initiatives have grown to include Head Start early childhood centers and K–16 programs, anchored by the USC McMorrow Neighborhood Academic Initiative, collectively serving more than 4,000 infants, students and families daily. USC’s Classical California is the nation’s largest classical music provider, with flagship station KUSC one of the most-listened-to public radio stations in the country.

He previously served as Chief of Staff to the Chair of the USC Board of Trustees, Rick Caruso. Before joining USC, Garrison held roles at Caltech and Caruso, including Executive Director of the Caruso Family Foundation. He also led government affairs for the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce and began his career on Capitol Hill, serving in both the U.S. House of Representatives and the United States Senate.

Active in civic life, Garrison serves on the boards of the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce, the Los Angeles Business Council, and Hillsides in Pasadena. He holds a bachelor’s degree from USC, a J.D. from Loyola Law School, and is a member of the State Bar of California.