Dr. William M. Downs was elected as the sixth president of Campbell University by the board of trustees during a special session on Monday, Feb.10. On Tuesday, Feb. 11, Dr. Downs was welcomed to the campus with a brief welcome ceremony introducing him to the community and the next CU president. 

An accomplished academic leader and political science scholar with more than 30 years of experience in higher education, Dr. Downs served as the 13th president of Gardner-Webb University. Prior to his appointment at Gardner-Webb, Dr. 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 during the welcome ceremony. “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.”

Campbell’s presidential search committee – composed of trustees, faculty, staff, and students – unanimously recommended Dr. Downs to the Board of Trustees, concluding a six-month search process led in partnership with the executive search firm CarterBaldwin.

“I’m grateful for the honor to serve as the sixth president of Campbell University. I’d like to thank the presidential search committee and the Board of Trustees for entrusting me with this opportunity to help shape the future of this exceptional institution,” said Dr. Downs during his thank you speech. “I admire Campbell’s firm foundation and dedication to academic excellence, and I share in the university’s mission to prepare students for purposeful lives and meaningful service. My wife Kim and I look forward to immersing in the campus lifestyle and becoming part of the Campbell community.”

A Raleigh native, Dr. Downs earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in political science from North Carolina State University. He also holds his master’s degree and Ph.D. in political science from Emory University in Atlanta.

During his presidency at Gardner-Webb, Dr. Downs advanced academics, athletics, and student life. He 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, bringing championship wins in basketball, football, tennis and soccer. Academically, Dr. Downs modernized the general education core curriculum, ultimately increasing accessibility and enrollment, while preserving the university’s faith-based identity.

His leadership also guided Gardner-Webb through the uncertainties of the COVID-19 pandemic and the recovery of a devastating hurricane.

“Dr. Downs’ bold leadership and dynamic energy will leave a lasting mark on Gardner-Webb. It has been a privilege to work alongside him and witness his transformative impact firsthand,” said Rev. Dr. Lamont Littlejohn, chair of the Gardner-Webb Board of Trustees in a press release. “While we will miss his vision and guidance, we are excited for the opportunities that await him at Campbell and wish him every success as he begins this next chapter.”

Dr. Downs will take office as president of Campbell University on July 1, 2025, and will succeed Dr. J. Bradley Creed, who retires at the end of June, after a 10-year term.

“Although the Campbell community is sad to see President Creed leave for retirement, we are deeply grateful for his devotion to Campbell and wish him the best,” said Board Chairman Gene Lewis III during the ceremony. “For the past 10 years, President Creed guided this university with wise, compassionate leadership, and we are positioned for continued success under our new leader, thanks to his service. We look forward to Campbell’s bright future, and we’re proud to welcome Dr. Downs.”