Making an Impact

alumni image

Becoming an alumnus can mean many things for a graduate. We proudly show off our diploma and wear our orange and black. But for many Campbell Camels, being an alumnus means more; it means giving back to their institution. This week, we celebrate Volunteer Appreciation Week and thank our alumni volunteers who engage with Campbell in a variety of meaningful ways.

“Alumni are an extension of Campbell’s mission of service to others. Our goal is to connect graduates to areas of the university they’re passionate about and want to help succeed. We invite our alumni to join us and thank those who are already making a difference in the lives of our students and to our alma mater.” – Sarah Swain (’05), vice president of alumni engagement

By the numbers:

  • 1,635 alumni donors participated in Campbell Giving Day
  • 597 alumni participate in CamelLink, our mentoring platform
  • 567 alumni joined virtual events this academic year
  • 80 alumni volunteers wrote hand-written notes to our incoming freshman
  • More than 100 alumni serve on various campus boards

Below we highlight four of our faithful alumni volunteers. To find ways to connect back to Campbell as an alumnus, please contact the Office of Alumni Engagement at alumni@campbell.edu.

Stephanie Laird (’16)

A self-professed fan of the hand-written note, Stephanie never hesitates to sign up for the card writing campaign. “I love being able to share how amazing my college experience was, and it’s a great way to connect with future students.”

By maintaining a relationship with her advisor, Stephanie is able to regularly volunteer with the College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences by speaking on alumni panels, assisting with Science Olympiad, and interviewing scholarship candidates. “It’s so important to give my time back to the University that gave me so much during my time there. Volunteering keeps you connected to Campbell even after you’re no longer on campus every day. Coming back for volunteer events always feels like coming home.”

Suzy Insley Nisbet (’86)

The power of connection drives Suzy to volunteer in various capacities through the Alumni Office. She generously gives of her time by participating in student networking roundtables, recording video messages to students, and coordinating class reunions.

“Volunteering allows me to give back and help the next generation be successful. It’s great to be able to help students prepare for their careers.”

Suzy also participates in the Alumni Association’s Orange Owned program through her business Strategic HR Solutions, LLC.

 

Marcus Riley Thompson (’15)

Marcus is passionate about volunteering and engaging with students through the Lundy-Fetterman School of Business where he is a frequent guest speaker, participates in panel discussions, and assists with mock interviews.

“To have the opportunity to give back to Campbell is rewarding in so many ways; but it is specifically important to me because I am able to connect with current students and share in the excitement for their future. Being able to share real world experiences with students is priceless information that they may use and carry into their professional careers. Campbell University offered me many great experiences and opportunities and expected nothing in return. Volunteering and giving back to such a great university is the least that could be done as a repayment.”

Carroll Leggett (’63)

While in junior college at Campbell, Carroll remembers making the choice to stay at Campbell for two more years to become a member of the first graduating class of the senior college. When asked why he stayed, he said, “We felt like we were a part of something.”

Now approaching six decades as a Campbell alumnus, Carroll has served in various ways, ranging from the Board of Trustees and the Alumni Board of Directors, to being a guest writer for the Alumni Association, just to name a few. “Throughout my career, I’ve had to write. I give credit to Ms. Mabel Powell for giving me the tool I’ve used all my life.”

When asked why he volunteers, Carroll said, “It’s important to stay engaged in the things that have helped shape our lives. It’s my duty to contribute as I can, so others can come and have the same experience and advantages that I had. Plus, it’s fun!”