Veteran creates the Campbell Experience at Fort Liberty & Pope
Faye Thompson is a highly-regarded and well-recognized advisor at Campbell University’s Fort Liberty & Pope location. Having served in the Air Force for more than twenty years, she employs a wealth of knowledge and experience as a female veteran and Campbell alumna for those individuals she counsels.
This year marks her 18th work anniversary with Campbell University. Her gentle nature and independent spirit keep her co-workers laughing and students coming back to her for guidance and encouragement when they need it most.
Thompson enlisted in the Air Force after she and her late husband relocated to Fayetteville for his reassignment at Pope Air Force Base. At the time, Thompson didn’t have work experience outside the home. “I went for this job interview, and they told me I did not have enough experience,” she recalls, “so I went straight to the Air Force recruiter and enlisted that day.” Thompson’s ambition propelled her twenty-year military career while at the same time, taking care of her family.
Shortly after retirement, Thompson began working at Campbell University Fort Liberty & Pope as a Student Services Assistant. In 2004, she completed her Bachelor of Business Administration with a minor in Computer Information Systems, and one year later, began advising and processing veterans education benefits.
Over 90% of students enrolled at Fort Liberty & Pope are active duty, veteran and/or military affiliated family members. Thompson’s role is invaluable to those individuals having gone through similar experiences throughout her career. “I am proud to have Faye as part of our team,” says Nicole Winget, Assistant Dean and Fort Liberty & Pope Site Coordinator. “Not only does she bring a wealth of knowledge and experience from her military and higher education experience, her care, love, and support create a positive learning environment where our students can thrive.”
Thompson wanted to share her gratitude and reflection on her career with the Campbell community in the following personal statement.
“I love the Lord. A proud mother of two children and grandmother of six. I love helping people, and I love what I do at Campbell University Fort Liberty & Pope. I am grounded in my faith and strongly believe that my military service and my employment with Campbell University at Fort Liberty & Pope has given me the opportunity to give back to my military community. The Lord blessed me with a good family and friends support system which allows me to journey through life unencumbered doing the things that I love. My military service gave me the opportunity to be of service to my country and to learn skills that helped to prepare me for employment in the civilian sector. Campbell gave me the opportunity to give back to my country, as the Veterans Affairs Advisor, assisting my fellow veterans with reaching one of their goals of completing higher education while still on active duty and after they have gotten out of the military. Because I had once been where they are, I can relate to the struggle of juggling college with military service duties and family commitments. I have learned that life presents us with a series of opportunities and challenges and whether or not you accept them willingly will be one of the determining factors as to whether or not you reach your desired destiny. I believe this is all designed to propel us to the next chapter in our life’s story. I am grateful to Campbell University for giving me the opportunity to give back to my alma mater and allowing me to assist my fellow service members and their families with reaching their educational goals.”