LaJoia Broughton is a seasoned Government and Public Affairs strategist with over 20 years of experience at the intersection of communications, politics, and policy. Based in South Carolina, she is recognized for her ability to drive meaningful results in both the private and public sectors. LaJoia excels at navigating complex challenges, adapting to rapid change, and building strategic partnerships with elected officials, state leaders, and key stakeholders to influence decisionmaking and shape impactful initiatives. 

As the founder and principal of Alpha Strategies, a consulting firm specializing in integrated legislative and public affairs programs, LaJoia designs and implements tailored strategies that empower clients from nonprofits to corporations to effectively engage with policymakers, enhance their reputations, and achieve measurable outcomes. With deep expertise in public policy, strategic communications, and stakeholder engagement, LaJoia is a trusted advisor to clients in high-stakes environments. 

LaJoia has held pivotal roles, including State Government Affairs Manager for JUUL Labs, Director of External Communications for the Retirement System Investment Commission, and Executive Director for the South Carolina Legislative Black Caucus. These experiences have honed her ability to craft persuasive messaging, build strategic coalitions, and drive advocacy efforts that resonate at the state and national levels. 

Her foundation in public speaking, poise under pressure, and community leadership was shaped early on through her participation in the Miss South Carolina Scholarship Program. Competing as Miss Wade Hampton Taylor, Miss Easley, and Miss Summerville between 2002 and 2006, LaJoia was honored to place as 4th runner-up in the 2004 Miss South Carolina competition. She credits programs like Miss South Carolina for helping young women develop confidence, advocacy skills, and a commitment to service, values that continue to influence her work today. 

In addition to her consulting work, LaJoia serves as a Richland-Lexington Airport Commissioner at Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE), where she provides strategic oversight to initiatives focused on enhancing customer experience and addressing community interests. A passionate advocate for equitable opportunities, representation, and belonging, LaJoia was recognized as a 2023 Women of Influence honoree by the Columbia Regional Business Report.

She holds a Master of Mass Communications degree from the University of South Carolina and a Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies from Furman University.