Steven Potaczek

Steven Potaczek serves as Associate Professor of Commercial Music and Founding Director of the Commercial Music program within the Division of Music at Samford University's School of the Arts. The program, one of the school's fastest-growing initiatives, offers specialized concentrations in songwriting, music production, live touring and performance, and music industry studies.

His academic credentials include a Master of Science in Music Technology from Indiana University and Avid Pro Tools certification. As an educator with nearly two decades of experience, he frequently speaks at music and film conferences.

Professor Potaczek's expertise bridges academic instruction and industry practice, focusing on commercial music production, songwriting, and contemporary industry dynamics. His professional work includes collaborations with MTV, National Geographic, the NBA, and the Heartland Film Festival, alongside Billboard Top 40 hits and placements on CBS Evening News and television series like Parks and Recreation and New Girl.

His major industry recognitions include:

• Gospel Music Academy’s Song of the Year
• Worship Leader magazine's Worship Album of the Year
• John Lennon Songwriting Award

As program director, he mentors students through real-world industry integration, leveraging his national and international touring experience and television placements to prepare emerging artists and industry professionals. The Commercial Music program under his leadership exemplifies applied learning in contemporary music education.