Campbell University hosts inaugural Barker Scholar Luncheon

BUIES CREEK — Campbell University hosted its inaugural Bob and Pat Barker Scholars Luncheon on Monday afternoon in the Oscar N. Harris Student Union Ballroom. More than 20 Barker Scholars gathered with University staff, administrators and lifetime Campbell trustees Bob and Pat Barker to celebrate the couple’s longtime support and generosity for Campbell students.

The event honored the Barkers’ commitment to student scholarships and their service to the University. Campbell University President Dr. William M. Downs, former President Dr. Jerry M. Wallace, Bob Barker and Barker Scholars Ariana Rodriguez and Karina Roscot all spoke during the program.

Dr. Downs opened by talking about the Barkers’ impact on Campbell. “Bob and Pat Barker’s belief in the power of education has transformed Campbell University for generations,” Downs said. “Their support not only changes the lives of our students, it strengthens the very foundation of who we are.” He also praised the Barker Scholars for their academic excellence, character and service, calling them “a daily tribute to the Barkers’ investment in Campbell’s future.”

Rodriguez, a sophomore criminal justice major from Fayetteville, N.C., said the scholarship eased her financial burden and motivated her to pursue a career in law.

“This scholarship has helped ease a significant financial burden, allowing me to focus more on my studies and less on the challenges of paying for school,” Rodriguez said. “Your generosity doesn’t just provide financial support; it provides encouragement and motivation. It reminds me that there are people who truly believe in students like me and want to see us succeed.”

Roscot, a freshman from Moldova who now lives in nearby Wake Forest, N.C., said receiving the scholarship came at a critical time.

“When I first learned I had received the Barker Scholarship, I cried tears of relief and gratitude,” Roscot said. “Their generosity came when I needed it most and lifted a huge burden from my shoulders. Because of their support, I’ve been able to fully focus on my education and put my whole heart into my studies. I hope to honor their generosity by making a positive impact on my community and future students.”

Bob Barker (’65) followed and reflected on his own path: going from a first-generation student from a small town to meeting Pat to becoming an entrepreneur and philanthropist.

“Campbell changed my life,” Barker said. “And I hope that you, as students, take what you’ve been given and pass it on and help others the way others have helped you. I credit the success of my business to Campbell University, and I’d do it all over again.”

Campbell’s fourth president, Dr. Jerry M. Wallace, closed the program by reflecting on the University’s history and the Barkers’ role in its growth. He told the story of Campbell’s resilience, from the 1900 fire that destroyed Buies Creek Academy to the generosity that has kept the institution going, and connected it to the Barkers’ giving.

“If you want a success story of a first-generation college student who came from a family that loved God and this country, you see it right here in Bob Barker,” Wallace said. “There have been many times in Campbell’s history when tough times came, and we made it through because of people who loved this place and would do anything for it. Bob and Pat Barker are two of those people.”

He added, “Bob and Pat are providential gifts to this university,” noting that their philanthropy has touched nearly every part of campus, from scholarships and athletics to leadership and mission opportunities for students.

Barker concluded the luncheon by presenting each student with a copy of his book, “I’m In Cells: The Captivating Story of Bob Barker and the Bob Barker Company.”