For Immediate Release
Contact: Daniel Wackershauser, Marketing and PR Specialist
Phone: 608.822.2303
Mail: 1800 Bronson Blvd., Fennimore, WI 53809
Date of Release: August 31, 2023
Campbell marks 40 years at Southwest Tech
Fennimore -
Karen Campbell has been a mainstay at Southwest Wisconsin Technical College for 40 years. She was recently recognized during campus in-service for her impressive milestone. She graduated from Fennimore High School in May 1982, and began working in the financial aid office at the college as a student worker one week later. She enrolled at Southwest Tech in Fall 1982, in the Legal Secretary program.
Campbell was hired as a financial aid assistant and began her full-time Southwest Tech employment on July 22, 1983. During the coming years she would hold various positions, including general education administrative assistant in the business and marketing department, research assistant, administrative assistant to the vice president of learning, executive assistant in the president’s office, and her current role as compliance officer. She worked in the reasearch assistant role the longest – 18 years.
As for why Campbell continues to work at Southwest Tech, it’s about the students. “It’s because of what we do; helping students, helping people better themselves, providing opportunities for success.”
Campbell’s two daughters attended Southwest Tech, as did a nephew, and several sisters-in-law. A great-niece is currently enrolled. She is a Fennimore native and currently resides there with her family.
Wherever Campbell travels, she always tries to make Southwest Tech connections. “They (students) always give credit to Southwest Tech for where they’ve gone in life,” she said. “They are very grateful, which is fulfilling to me as it represents how we live our mission.”
Campbell has enjoyed all of her roles on campus, especially the executive assistant to the president position. In that role, she worked with many external partners. “Seeing how far of a reach the college has validated what we do at the college, and I really liked working with the board,” she said. “I have so many fond memories.”
Things have changed on campus, however, one thing has remained constant. “The one thing that hasn’t changed is helping students,” said Campbell. “We have always been student focused.”
Looking to the future, Campbell has no desire to step away. “I have no idea when I’m going to retire,” she said. “I’m still having too much fun.”
| Southwest Wisconsin Technical College, a finalist for the 2023 Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence, is one of 16 institutions that comprise the Wisconsin Technical College System. Southwest Tech offers more than 60 programs in a wide variety of disciplines. Courses are offered on campus, online, HyFlex and in a blended format. The college provides apprenticeship, certificate, technical diploma, and associate degree programs that respond to district workforce needs and prepare student for family-sustaining jobs and career advancement. |