Todd Campbell
This month, we are bringing you another special edition of the Alumni Spotlight series. We are delighted to feature Todd Campbell, an alum from the 1986-1987 Presidential Fellows cohort. Todd joined the Fellows program as a student at Appalachian State University (ASU) in Boone, North Carolina.
When Todd became a Fellow, the program was structured quite differently from the current format. The Center hosted large research symposia for students across the country. A small group of attendees were chosen to become Presidential Fellows and assist CSPC staff in organizing and coordinating the subsequent one. While serving as student body president at ASU, Todd was selected by the school’s Chancellor to attend the symposium. He was so impressed with his experience that he applied, and was selected, to become a Fellow.
During his time as a Fellow, Todd traveled to Atlanta, Georgia to attend the Center’s Annual Leadership Conference which included a visit to the newly opened Jimmy Carter Library and Museum where the former president gave a keynote address. Presidential Fellows had the opportunity to moderate discussions during the conference, and Todd moderated a conversation on human rights and Soviet relations, featuring the former Republic of Korea ambassador to the United States, Kim Yong-shik. The student research symposium in Washington, D.C. that Todd helped organize as a Fellow featured speakers such as Attorney General of the United States Edwin Meese III, and United States Deputy Secretary of State John Whitehead. Todd commented that, “It was a fascinating time to be a Presidential Fellow,” though upon further reflection added, “any time is a fascinating time to be a Presidential Fellow!”
After graduating from ASU, Todd received his J.D. from Mercer University and worked for several years on the Hill. Todd is now the President and CEO of Builders Insurance Group. When asked how the Fellowship influenced his career, Todd remarked that he gained greater exposure to the world from the Fellows program. He was surrounded by likeminded students who deepened his views of America and American politics. Not only did his experience help him become a more thoughtful person, but it also helped him navigate his business career and gave him a greater appreciation for different cultures. Becoming a Fellow “prepared me for business in ways I didn’t expect,” he said.
Reflecting on advice he would give students considering the program, he commented, “The word ‘yes’ has been a very powerful part of my career and life. Had I not applied I wouldn’t have had the experience. Say yes to all of the opportunities. You won’t realize the power of the program until later.” Todd’s personal and professional journey is a great example of the lasting impact of the Fellowship.