From Student to Dean of Students: Nicky Campbell’s Inspiring Story

Sanjana Priyonti, Junior Editor
Lizzy Donker, Editor-in-Chief

Sewanee’s new Dean of Students, Nicky Campbell, (C ’99), has been in office for less than a month, but she is already taking strides to enhance the student experience. In a recent interview, The Sewanee Purple learned the awe-inspiring story of a remarkable journey of Sewanee’s very own alum, and now Dean of Students. 

Nicky Campbell (C ‘99) was announced as the new Dean of Students and Vice-President of student life when students returned for the Easter semester. Campbell replaced former Dean of Students Erica Howard, who is assuming the temporary role of Special Assistant to the Provost.

Campbell came to the Mountain as a Desmond Tutu Scholar from Johannesburg, South Africa. She grew up in South Africa during apartheid, a time of legally enforced racial segregation, and she attended an under-resourced public school. However, a scholarship to a private Episcopal boarding school exposed her to opportunities abroad. It was through a chance encounter at church with Bishop Desmond Tutu that she first heard about Sewanee. She recalled that Bishop Tutu described Sewanee as a “quaint” place, a description that she says turned out to be true in the best way possible.

The transition from Johannesburg, a city of nearly six million people, to the small, rural environment of Sewanee was a stark contrast. However, Campbell found a close-knit community that welcomed her from the start. One of her first meaningful connections was with a Spanish professor, Dr. Sánchez, who invited her on a spontaneous shopping trip shortly after their first meeting. Their friendship has lasted decades, with Sánchez becoming the godmother of Campbell’s daughter. 

Campbell said Sewanee’s unique environment—where students, faculty, and staff are deeply intertwined—is what makes it special. She hopes to continue nurturing that sense of community, ensuring that every student, regardless of background, feels they belong. “Sewanee changed the trajectory of my entire life,” she reflected. “I want to make sure students have that same opportunity.” 

Campbell’s dedication to the student experience began during her own undergraduate years. She served as a proctor and actively participated in campus life. Campbell also participated in Greek life as a member of Phi Kappa Epsilon. 

After graduation, she returned to Sewanee in various professional roles, including Director of Residential Life, working in the Office of Admissions, and coordinator for student activities, Civic Engagement, International Student Services, and assistant to three Vice-Chancellors. Her journey has come full circle as she steps into the role of Dean of Students, a position previously held by Vice-Chancellor Pearigen when he hired her as the director of Residential Life. Campbell sees her new role as a way to give back to the institution that transformed her life. “I had several advocates when I was a student,” she said. “I want to be that advocate for others.”

Having once been a student at Sewanee herself, Campbell understands the unique culture and traditions that shape the University. She acknowledges that a student’s journey is filled with both rewarding moments and challenges—something she hopes to help students tread through effectively. “The four years here go by really fast,” she shared. “If I can play a role in making that time meaningful, then I consider it a privilege.”

Campbell said she is determined to reshape how students perceive and interact with the Dean of Students office. When asked what comes to mind when students think of the office, she noted that many see it as a place of authority—perhaps even intimidating. “I want students to feel free to come in, not just when there’s an issue, but anytime,” she said. “This is your office.”

She acknowledges that Sewanee students will face challenges—academic pressures, personal growth, and defining their paths—but she wants to ensure they emerge stronger. “A great college experience isn’t just about the good times. It’s about overcoming obstacles and coming out the other side better prepared for the world,” she said. Campbell sees her office as having a crucial role in shaping the students who graduate from Sewanee. “When students leave this campus, they represent Sewanee in the world,” she explained. “The way we support them during their time here directly impacts the kind of people they become.”

She is excited to bring fresh perspectives to the role and work alongside students to build a thriving campus community. “I want to hear from students—what excites them, what concerns them, and how we can work together to make their time at Sewanee as enriching as possible,” she said. She also wants to make Sewanee a model for other colleges where students and the office of the Dean of Students work hand in hand.

So, Campbell said, the next time you’re near the Dean of Students office, don’t hesitate to stop by. “This is your space. Let’s make it one where you feel welcome.”