J.J. Carter ’96, global president and CEO of leading global PR and marketing agency FleishmanHillard, to deliver UNC Hussman 2025 commencement address
UNC Hussman School of Journalism and Media alumnus J.J. Carter ’96 — global president and CEO of FleishmanHillard, one of the world’s most respected PR and marketing agencies — will present the commencement address to the school’s Class of 2025 on Saturday, May 10, 2025, at 3 p.m. in Carmichael Arena on the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill campus.
Carter, who earned his bachelor’s degree in journalism and mass communication with a concentration in public relations from UNC Hussman, has maintained close ties to the school and its students as a dedicated supporter, trusted adviser and tireless advocate. In 2023, he helped establish the Carter-Tinson Gallery in the school’s Curtis Media Center to highlight work that advances public discourse, elevates underrepresented voices and catalyzes social change.
Additionally, Carter serves on the UNC Hussman Board of Advisers and was inducted into the NC Journalism & Media Hall of Fame in April 2024 for his leadership and contributions to the strategic communications field. His deep connection to UNC has shaped his journey and inspires his return to Chapel Hill as the school’s 2025 commencement speaker.
“This is among the most complex and consequential times in the history of media, journalism and communications, and this graduating class will step into an industry that demands perpetual reinvention,” said Carter. “There is no better time to imagine and build this future and no better place than Chapel Hill to take that first step.”
A dynamic leader and active counselor, Carter took the role of president and chief executive officer of FleishmanHillard in October 2024. In that capacity, he oversees all aspects of the firm’s operations with a focus on accelerating growth, delivering transformative work for clients and creating a best-in-class experience for FleishmanHillard employees.
“J.J.’s remarkable career path from UNC Hussman to the NBA to the ATP to FleishmanHillard — and his ascension there to establish himself as one of the most innovative strategic communication figures in the world — demonstrates what can be possible with a strong foundation, immersive learning experiences, a commitment to ethics and a passion for excellence,” said Raul Reis, UNC Hussman dean and John T. Kerr Distinguished Professor. “We are proud to count him as an alumnus and fortunate to count him as a friend. We are thrilled that he will share his perspectives and insights with our graduates as they prepare for the next steps in their own journey.”
Prior to being named CEO, Carter spent eight years leading FH through a period of unprecedented growth as its global chief operating officer and president of the Americas. During that time, the firm distinguished itself as an industry standard-bearer for profitability, inclusion and recognition — earning multiple agency of the year accolades from Campaign, PRWeek, ICCO and PRovoke — and topping best places to work lists for LGBTQ+ equality and female executives.
Regarded as a trusted advisor to iconic brands in their biggest moments and on the largest global stages, Carter has counseled clients through IPOs, CEO transitions, groundbreaking product launches, complex mergers and global sponsorship activations.
He is a veteran communicator of nine Olympic Games, having led work for national governing bodies including the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committees and the U.S. Ski and Snowboard Association; sponsorship programs on behalf of Visa, Alibaba Group and BMW North America; and major event work for individual athletes, among them international media events with the world’s most decorated Olympian, Michael Phelps.
Before joining FleishmanHillard, Carter was an accomplished global leader in sports marketing and communications, having led communications for the Dallas Mavericks, Detroit Pistons and the Association of Tennis Professionals. During that time, he advised some of the world’s most prominent athletes including Dirk Nowitzki, Jerry Stackhouse, Roger Federer and Andy Roddick.
A seasoned leader who has navigated the evolving landscapes of media, sports marketing and global communications, Carter understands the transformative power of this industry and the role today’s graduates will play in shaping its future.
“It is the honor of my lifetime to share this momentous day with UNC Hussman graduating students and their families,” said Carter. “Carolina has been with me every day of my own journey the past three decades, and I’m delighted to share some of those reflections.”