James A. Campbell
Founding President
James Archibald Campbell, both a preacher and a teacher, founded Buies Creek Academy in 1887 at a time when there had not been a school operating in the area for at least three years.
We remain true to James A. Campbell’s vision since he founded the school in 1887. His vision, in his own words: “to educate leaders.” Today, we continue to cultivate leaders prepared for purposeful lives and meaningful service.
J.A. Campbell Scholarship Program
FRANK B. HOLDING SR. SCHOLARSHIPS
Full tuition, Room & Board, Books and Fees per year, renewable (1 offered)
The Frank B. Holding Sr. Scholarship stands as one of Campbell University’s most distinguished undergraduate awards, reflecting an enduring commitment to academic excellence, leadership, and service. Established in honor of Frank B. Holding Sr., a visionary in banking and business whose life exemplified integrity, philanthropy, and civic responsibility, this scholarship represents the highest level of support offered to incoming students.
Awarded to one exceptional student each year, the scholarship provides full tuition, room and board, books, and fees for up to four consecutive years, a comprehensive package valued at more than $235,000. Frank B. Holding Sr. Scholars join a legacy of excellence and are expected to embody the values that defined Mr. Holding’s life and leadership.
This prestigious award not only opens doors to a transformative Campbell education but also honors a legacy of service that continues to shape the university’s future.
GLADYS BAARS CAMPBELL SCHOLARSHIPS
Full tuition per year, renewable (2 offered)
The Gladys Baars Campbell Scholarship extends the university’s commitment to excellence even further. Named after Gladys Baars Campbell, who left a lasting legacy through her extraordinary generosity and belief in the university’s mission, this prestigious scholarship covers full tuition for up to four consecutive years—an award of more than $160,000. Campbell selects two Gladys Baars Campbell Scholars from the incoming freshman class.
J.H. AND MABEL C. STRICKLAND SCHOLARSHIPS
Full tuition per year, renewable (2 offered)
The J.H. and Mabel C. Strickland Scholarship continues the university’s commitment to students exhibiting academic and leadership excellence. Offered through the generosity of former trustees of Campbell University, J. Hunter and Mabel C. Strickland, this prestigious scholarship covers full tuition for up to four consecutive years of undergraduate study — an award of more than $160,000. Campbell selects two J.H. and Mabel C. Strickland Scholars from the incoming freshman.
How to Apply
All students applying as an incoming freshman to Campbell University for the fall semester are eligible to participate in the J.A. Campbell Scholarship Program. The process to be considered is simple!
- Be an incoming freshman (new student, dual-enrolled student, or early college student)
- Plan to enroll for the fall semester
- Complete an application to the University as a main campus student
- Submit documents including your high school transcript
- Complete the J.A. Campbell Scholarship Program application
The above guidelines must be completed by Monday, December 1, 2025. Those selected to attend the in-person scholarship competition will be notified in late December.
The in-person portion of the J.A. Scholarship Program will take place on two dates.
- Friday, January 23, 2026
- Friday, January 30, 2026
Phase 1
- Complete an application to Campbell University.
- Get accepted. Don’t forget to submit your high school transcript for evaluation.
- Submit scholarship program application.
Deadline: To be considered, all steps must be completed by Monday, December 1, 2025. Those selected to participate in phase 2 (on-campus event) will be notified in late December.
Phase 2
Students selected to attend the on-campus scholarship program competition will register for the date which best works for their schedule. Registration information will be sent via email in late December.