CarterBaldwin Executive Search, together with Campbell University’s Board of Trustees, is pleased to announce William M. Downs, PhD, as the school’s sixth President. He will succeed retiring president J. Bradley Creed on July 1.
An accomplished academic leader and political science scholar with more than 30 years of experience in higher education, Downs served as the 13th president of Gardner-Webb University. Prior to his appointment at Gardner-Webb, Downs served as dean of the Thomas Harriot College of Arts and Sciences, professor of political science, and W. Keats Sparrow distinguished chair in liberal arts at East Carolina University.
“Dr. Downs represents everything we hoped to find in Campbell University’s next president,” said Gene Lewis III, chair of the Board of Trustees and presidential search committee. “With his extensive experience, deep personal faith, and infectious energy, he is uniquely qualified to elevate Campbell to new heights, while upholding our mission and values.”
During his presidency at Gardner-Webb, Downs spearheaded major capital projects including the construction of a state-of-the-art cafeteria, an amphitheater, and an indoor baseball facility, and the renovation of key academic and athletic spaces. Under his leadership, Gardner-Webb revitalized its sports programs and modernized the general education core curriculum, ultimately increasing accessibility and enrollment while preserving the University’s faith-based identity.
A Raleigh, North Carolina native, Downs earned his PhD and MA in political science from Emory University, and a BA in political science from North Carolina State University.
Click here to read Campbell University’s complete announcement.
About Campbell University
Fueled by a higher calling, Campbell University provides a transformational learning experience that prepares students for servant leadership and equips them with skills and habits to make a difference in the lives of others. Founded in 1887, the University is located in beautiful Buies Creek, NC, part of the Research Triangle region, and one of the fastest-growing areas in the country. Enrolling more native North Carolinians than any private college or university in the state, Campbell boasts a bustling undergraduate program with more than 150 majors and minors and respected graduate programs.
