Bobby Rettew

The Story
Behind Rettew Creative

I believe stories have the power to change organizations and communities. For more than two decades, I've had the privilege of helping others discover, preserve, and share the stories that matter.

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I Wear Several Hats

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    Storyteller

    Founder of Rettew Creative. Documentary filmmaker and strategic storyteller helping foundations, healthcare organizations, universities, nonprofits, and businesses share stories that inspire action and strengthen communities.

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    Educator

    Assistant Professor of Communication at Anderson University teaching documentary storytelling, podcasting, video production, and media ethics.

    View Curriculum Vitae —>

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    Community Builder

    I believe in showing up and serving. From local initiatives to statewide boards, I work alongside others to create positive change and build stronger communities.

  • Open book with a light bulb above it, symbolizing ideas or learning.

    Lifelong Learner

    From my journey on my second graduate degree to researching, writing, traveling, and speaking, I'm always learning something new that makes me a better storyteller and a better teacher.

Husband & Dad

Sarah is my greatest partner in life. Rose, George, and Henry are my why. Watson our dog is not pictured because he never likes to sit in one spot, yet is the king of the house!

A Few Milestones

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    1997

    Graduated from Clemson University and started my career in television.

  • Red neon outline of a vintage film camera on a tripod, displayed on a white circle background.

    2000

    Built a career in broadcast media and documentary production.

  • 2010

    Founded Rettew Creative to help organizations tell their stories.

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    2021

    Joined Anderson University as an assistant professor of communication.

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    2025

    Started my MFA in TV & Broadcast Television from Asbury University.

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    Today

    Continuing the work I love-telling stories that move people to action.

Organizations I Serve

  • Since 2022, I've served on the steering committee of the Anderson Area Remembrance & Reconciliation Initiative (AAR&RI), helping preserve local history through documentary storytelling, public history, community engagement, and strategic communications. My work has included developing the organization's new brand and website, producing documentary films, creating educational resources, and supporting community conversations centered on remembrance, reconciliation, and building the Beloved Community.

    Highlights

    • Steering Committee Member

    • Documentary Producer

    • Website & Brand Strategy

    • Community Engagement

    • Public History

  • As Board Chair of The Champions Center, I work alongside an incredible team dedicated to supporting children and adults with disabilities and their families. My role includes organizational governance, strategic planning, communications, fundraising, and helping tell the stories that inspire our community to invest in the Center's mission.

    Highlights

    • Board Chair

    • Strategic Planning

    • Governance

    • Communications

    • Fundraising Support

  • Serving as Vice Chair of the Anderson County Criminal Justice Coordinating Council has given me the opportunity to collaborate with judges, law enforcement, educators, nonprofit leaders, and community organizations working to strengthen our local justice system. Together, we focus on improving collaboration, supporting evidence-based initiatives, and addressing challenges facing our community.

    Highlights

    • Vice Chair

    • Criminal Justice Reform

    • Cross-Sector Collaboration

    • Community Leadership

  • As a Riley Fellow through the Riley Institute's Diversity Leaders Initiative, I've had the privilege of learning alongside leaders from across South Carolina while working on collaborative projects that strengthen communities through dialogue, leadership, and civic engagement. The experience continues to shape how I approach storytelling and collaborative problem solving.

    Highlights

    • Riley Fellow

    • Diversity Leaders Initiative

    • Statewide Leadership Network

    • Collaborative Problem Solving

  • Throughout my career, I've been honored to serve on numerous nonprofit, civic, educational, and professional boards. These opportunities have allowed me to contribute my experience in communications, strategic planning, governance, and storytelling while supporting organizations committed to making a positive difference in their communities.

    Organizations Include

    • Anderson University

    • Nonprofit Boards

    • Professional Advisory Groups

    • Community Leadership Initiatives

    • Volunteer Service

Areas of Experience

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History & Culture

Healthcare

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Higher Education

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Foundations & Nonprofits

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Economic Development

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Sports & NIL Partnerships

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Destination Marketing

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Strategic Communications

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Documentary Storytelling

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Recognition

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    Regional Emmy® Award Winner

  • Associated Press logo.

    Multiple AP Award Winner

  • SCICU Excellence in Teaching Award

  • Riley Institute at Furman University logo.

    Riley Fellow Furman University

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    Published Author & Speaker