COLUMBIA--Gov. Mark Sanford has named a 23-year Santee Cooper veteran to head the state-owned utility's board.

Sanford on Monday named T. Graham Edwards to serve as chairman of the board of the Public Service Authority. Edwards' appointment must be approved by the Senate.

Edwards has served in many capacities at Santee Cooper, including a seven-year stint as president and chief executive officer. He also has served as executive vice president and chief financial officer for the authority.

"Graham's base of understanding and experience with respect to Santee Cooper is going to be a tremendous asset for our team," Sanford said.

Sanford is completing an officer training course in Alabama.