Susan Packard, former HGTV chief operating officer and Michigan State University alumna, will be the grand marshal for the university’s 2019 Homecoming celebration.
Packard, an Honors College alumna, earned her bachelor's and master's degrees in advertising in 1977 and 1979.
Professionally, Packard served as co-founder of Scripps Networks Interactive and assisted in the creation of television networks that have become household names across the country, including CNBC, HGTV, Food Network and DIY Network. As COO of HGTV, Packard helped the network rise to a market value of more than $15 billion, making it one of the fastest growing television brands in history.
In 2008, Packard was inducted into the Cable Hall of Fame. Her other accolades include the MSU College of Communication Arts and Sciences’ Outstanding Alumni Award, the Women in Cable & Telecommunications Woman of the Year Award, the YWCA Tribute to Women Award and the E.W. Scripps William R. Burleigh Award for Distinguished Community Service.
Today, Packard writes, speaks and mentors individuals who are motivated to grow their potential. In 2015, she wrote "New Rules of the Game: 10 Strategies for Women in the Workplace." Her second book, "Fully Human: 3 Steps to Grow Your Emotional Fitness for Work, Leadership and Life," discusses how readers can leverage emotional intelligence to propel personal fulfillment and success.
"We’re thrilled to welcome Susan back to campus as our grand marshal," said Jennifer Jimenez, director of marketing for the MSU Alumni Office. "Through her continued mentorship and guidance, Susan truly exemplifies what it means to inspire success."
The 2019 Homecoming theme, "Spartans Inspire Success," highlights and recognizes the ways in which Spartans are using their education, talents and experiences as tools to uplift and strengthen others. The 2019 Homecoming Parade will kick off at 6 p.m. on Sept. 27 in East Lansing and Homecoming Week activities will take place Sept. 22-28.
