Campbell Law Spotlight: Elliott Madden ’26

Elliott Madden ‘26

Hometown: Elizabethtown, North Carolina

Undergraduate education: Virginia Military Institute 

Why did you choose Campbell Law?

I chose Campbell Law because of its strong emphasis on practical training, its close-knit community and its deep ties to both the North Carolina legal system and the military. As someone serving in the U.S. Army Reserve and preparing for a career in the JAG Corps, I was drawn to Campbell’s culture of service, integrity and advocacy. The school’s location in Raleigh offers unmatched opportunities for clerkships, externships and networking with government and military leaders, while its strong military alumni network provides valuable mentorship and support. Campbell’s commitment to producing practice-ready attorneys aligned with my goal of serving both my state and my country through the law.

What has been your favorite experience so far at Campbell?

My favorite experience at Campbell Law has been the opportunity to build relationships through service-oriented organizations and leadership roles, particularly within the Military Law Students Association. Being part of a community that values integrity, service and camaraderie has allowed me to connect my military background with my legal education in meaningful ways. Whether through organizing events, engaging with alumni and JAG officers, or working alongside classmates who share a passion for public service, I’ve found that these experiences not only strengthened my skills as a future attorney but also deepened my commitment to serving both North Carolina and the nation.

What was your law school journey like?

My journey to law school has been guided by a combination of military service and hands-on exposure to the legal system. While serving in the Army National Guard and later the U.S. Army Reserve taught me discipline, leadership and the importance of service, my time working in the District Attorney’s Office in Bladen County gave me a front-row seat to the practice of law. There, I observed prosecutors balance the pursuit of justice with fairness, saw how the law directly impacts communities and gained an appreciation for the responsibility attorneys carry in ensuring integrity in the system. That experience confirmed my desire to pursue a legal career rooted in service. Campbell Law, with its emphasis on advocacy, ethics and practical training, was the natural fit to help me continue that journey while preparing for a future as both a civilian attorney and a JAG officer.

How did you spend your 1L summer?

During my 1L summer, I had the opportunity to serve as a Legal Intern with the Office of the Staff Judge Advocate for the XVIII Airborne Corps at Fort Bragg. That experience gave me a unique look into the broad scope of military law, from advising commanders on regulatory compliance to assisting service members with personal legal issues. I rotated through multiple sections — Legal Assistance, Administrative Law, Military Justice and Federal Litigation — which allowed me to apply the foundational skills I had gained during my first year of law school in real-world settings. Working alongside Judge Advocates reinforced my desire to pursue a career in the JAG Corps while also sharpening my ability to research, write and advocate effectively. My 1L summer was not only formative in confirming my career path, but it also deepened my appreciation for the role of military lawyers in serving both the mission and the individual soldier.

What extracurricular activities are you involved in?

At Campbell Law, I have been deeply involved in extracurricular activities that reflect both my commitment to service and my faith. I currently serve as president of the Military Law Students Association, where I connect students with resources, mentorship and opportunities in military and national security law. I am also a member of the Christian Legal Society, which has provided a strong community of fellowship and faith-centered support as I navigate the challenges of law school. Through CLS, I’ve been able to integrate my values into my legal education and participate in events that encourage service and spiritual growth. These organizations, along with advocacy training and networking opportunities, have strengthened my leadership and organizational abilities while also grounding me in a sense of purpose. Together, they have shaped not only my professional preparation for a career in civilian practice and the JAG Corps, but also my personal development as a lawyer committed to service, integrity, and faith.

What does your life look like outside of law school?

Outside of law school, I find balance and purpose through family, faith and fitness. I am married to my wife, Graceanna, and we enjoy building our life together in North Carolina. We also have a golden doodle named Callie, who keeps us active and brings plenty of joy to our daily routine. In addition to family life, I am passionate about fitness and compete in powerlifting, which provides structure, discipline and an outlet beyond the demands of school and military service. Having grown up farming, I also value time outdoors and remain connected to my agricultural roots. These parts of my life outside the classroom keep me grounded, strengthen my resilience and remind me of the importance of service and community as I prepare for a career in the law.

Do you have any advice for current law students or prospective students?

If I could offer advice to prospective law students, it would be to approach law school with both preparation and perspective. First, develop strong habits of discipline and time management early — law school is demanding, and consistency will matter more than perfection. Second, don’t neglect relationships. Build a community with your classmates, seek out mentors and stay connected with family and friends outside of law school; those connections will carry you through stressful times. Third, remember why you came. Whether it’s a passion for advocacy, service or making a difference in your community, keeping that purpose in front of you will give meaning to the hard work. Finally, take care of yourself. Physical health, mental wellness and balance outside of the classroom are just as important as grades. Law school is not only about learning the law but also about shaping yourself into the kind of lawyer — and person — you want to become.