Wanda Lewis-Campbell’s career in student affairs spanned almost four decades, marked by a deep commitment to student success, community engagement and mentorship. With 26 of those years spent at Temple University, including 22 years at the Ambler campus, she spearheaded innovative programs and initiatives that supported students and fostered a sense of belonging. Her work, driven by a passion for higher education and service, has made an indelible impact on Temple and its many students. Since her retirement in 2018, she continues to be a servant leader, giving back and making a difference in the lives of others. 

Lewis-Campbell first discovered her passion for working with students when she was pursuing a bachelor’s degree from Livingstone College in North Carolina. She began her career in student affairs at the University of South Florida, where she worked for 15 years before joining the staff at Temple in 1996. 

“I found my calling, and it’s been a journey I’ve loved every step of the way,” she reflected.  

At Temple, she served in various capacities and led initiatives that ranged from student leadership development to cultural and recreational programming. 

One highlight was the creation of the “free hour” Mondays and Wednesdays. It was a time during which no classes were held, so students could attend organizational meetings and activities. 

“It gave students the chance to be part of campus life and led to greater involvement,” Lewis-Campbell explained.  

In 1998, to extend her influence beyond the programmatic work, Lewis-Campbell started pursuing her doctor of education degree at Temple’s College of Education and Human Development (CEHD), under the advisership of the late professor Vivian Watford Ikpa, as well as James Earl Davis, professor and the Bernard C. Watson Endowed Chair in urban education. 

Lewis-Campbell said she might not have taken the leap if it had not been for Corrine Caldwell, the dean of Temple Ambler at the time, who provided mentorship and motivation. 

“She encouraged me to pursue a higher degree. But I hesitated because I didn’t see myself as a researcher,” she said. “Dr. Caldwell reassured me, saying, ‘Neither am I, but we need more African American women and diverse voices in higher education with doctorate degrees.’ Her encouragement and a letter of support were pivotal in my decision.” 

As part of her doctoral research, Lewis-Campbell explored the challenges faced by students at satellite campuses in the U.S. in feeling connected to the main campus, particularly at Temple Ambler and Oxford College of Emory University. Her dissertation focused on how these students determined their sense of connectedness, an area that had been largely overlooked in existing research during her graduate studies. 

"There was a gap in understanding how students at satellite campuses, especially residential students, experienced their identity and engagement," she noted. 

Her research led to tangible changes at Temple Ambler. As the assistant dean for student life, she proposed improved inter-campus bus schedules and distribution of event tickets, making it easier for students to engage in universitywide events. Lewis-Campbell also worked closely with the athletics department to arrange transportation to football games, ensuring Ambler students had the opportunity to participate in university traditions. 

“Small initiatives like these made a big difference in helping students feel connected,” she remarked. “It was about making them feel seen and being part of the greater Temple community.” 

Her doctoral studies, as she recalled, were not easy—balancing full-time work, family life and coursework proved to be a challenge. But Lewis-Campbell persevered, finding strength in her own advice to students. 

 “Sometimes, I’d be rushing from work to class and arrive late. My students would see me and tease, saying, ‘You’re late for class!’ It was a humbling reminder of how life had come full circle.” 

Lewis-Campbell completed her doctoral study in 2003. 

“It took me five years to complete my dissertation,” she shared. “It wasn’t always easy, but it was a reminder that it's never too late to pursue your dreams.” 

In 2018, Lewis-Campbell retired from her role at Temple Ambler. Former and current students, faculty and staff gathered to celebrate her retirement, where many shared stories of the impact she had on their lives. 

“It was incredible to hear how I had made a difference,” she said, her voice filled with gratitude. “It wasn’t just about the programs we ran—it was about the relationships we built and the support we were able to provide to students collectively.” 

“When I announced my retirement as a staff member, the college asked me if I would continue on by teaching, and I was thrilled to stay on,” she said. "We grow our own, don't we? 'Your diamonds are not in far distant mountains or in yonder seas; they are in your own backyard,'" she added, citing the famous quote from Temple founder Russel Conwell. 

Lewis-Campbell stayed on as an adjunct professor in the CEHD and fully retired in 2022. 

Even when Lewis-Campbell retired from an extensive career in student affairs, her service to education and community kept expanding. A trusted member of the North Penn community in Lansdale, Pennsylvania, she was elected and served on the board of school directors in the North Penn School District (NPSD) from 2020 to 2023. 

"When my family first moved to this area in the late 90s, my son was in fifth grade, and he was the only Black student in his grade,” she noted. “Prior to my appointment, the district hadn’t elected a Black person to the school board in over 40 years.” 

Her goal as a school board director was to ensure the district reflects the community it serves. 

“That means engaging cultures that haven’t historically been involved,” she asserted. “The school district has become more diverse, and I’m especially proud of how inclusive it has become. Teachers have come to work for us because they value our culturally responsive teaching and DEI efforts.” 

Lewis-Campbell's passion for public service truly runs in the family. She is the third Lewis to serve on a school board—and the only woman so far. 

“My uncle, Reverend Charles W. Lewis, was the first Black school board president in Hickory-Conover in North Carolina. His legacy was recently honored with a street named in his memory,” she proudly shared. 

Giving back is one of Lewis-Campbell's greatest life goals, and her community service goes beyond education. For many years, she has brought her sorority, Alpha Kappa Alpha, to collaborate with students and other members of the community to create no-sew blankets for homeless families. She also advocates for inclusive programs for seniors in her community. Lewis-Campbell's work continues to reflect her lifelong dedication to education, advocacy and social justice. 

"Anyone can make an impact," she emphasized. "A desire to give back is what matters most. " 

As she reflects on her journey, Lewis-Campbell’s message is clear: always keep learning, always keep giving, and never think that you’ve done enough. She hopes to inspire others to follow in her footsteps—whether in education, public service or community advocacy.