Donor Impact Spotlight: Emma Guild ’27

BUIES CREEK, N.C. – As a high school senior, Emma Guild (’27) knew that she wanted to go to a college that had both strong academic and Christian values. She toured several schools across North Carolina, but it wasn’t until her final stop to Campbell that everything clicked. She felt drawn to the close-knit community and Christian foundation of Campbell and knew right away she had found the right fit.

Emma began applying for scholarships but assumed she wouldn’t receive much aid in return. That changed when she was awarded the J.A. Campbell Scholarship and Scott-Ellis Merit Scholarship. At first, she didn’t think it was real. The financial support from those scholarships lifted a major burden from Emma and her family.

Before receiving that support, Emma says she felt like an imposter. She was unsure if she truly belonged. But the scholarships reaffirmed her hard work and made her feel seen. “It showed me that I mattered,” she said.

“I feel like not only did I want Campbell, but Campbell wanted me. Without those scholarships, I probably wouldn’t be at Campbell.”

Initially planning to pursue a degree in marketing and management, Emma quickly discovered a new passion for law and finance after attending a few classes on campus. She changed her major to Trust and Wealth Management Pre-Law, with the goal of helping others manage their finances.

Now, with her future in focus and financial stress no longer a major concern, Emma is embracing every opportunity to get involved on campus. She serves as secretary of the Women in Business Club, supports students as a peer mentor within the Lundy-Fetterman School of Business and holds an on-campus job with dining services.

After graduation Emma plans to move to Texas to begin her trust and wealth management career. Long term, she plans to give back just as others gave to her. “I want to sponsor a student someday, to give someone else the same chance I had.”

For Emma, Campbell isn’t just a place to get a degree and check a box off. It’s a place that has welcomed her, believed in her and given her the tools to succeed and grow. “I tell everyone Campbell feels like home,” she said.

“I wouldn’t be here without the donors who made it possible, and I’m so thankful.”

Anyone can make a difference as a donor and every gift, no matter the size, makes a difference for students like Emma. Invest in the future of Campbell at give.campbell.edu.