Crossing the Mason-Dixon line on her way to Trenton meant that young Diane and her mother would be able to move to the front of the bus for the first time in their lives as they traveled from North Carolina to Trenton. After graduating from Trenton Central High School, Diane obtained her bachelor’s from Morgan State, her masters from The College of New Jersey (TCNJ), and ultimately her doctorate from Rutgers University. Today, Diane goes by the name of Dr. Campbell as she follows her passion and concerns to help people live better lives and advance in her role as Vice President of Student Affairs at Mercer County Community College (MCCC).
Growing up in Trenton, Dr. Campbell recalls how her father used to take her fishing on the riverfront and how her mother became one of the first African American bureau chiefs in the city. She also fondly remembers her time spent at Cadwalader Park. A proud graduate of Trenton Central High School, Dr. Campbell always had that burning in her heart to pursue teaching. Upon fully emerging herself in the idea of higher education, she pursued a masters in student personnel services at The College of New Jersey. Shortly afterwards she obtained her doctorate in the college’s Department of Education Theory, Administration and Policy Studies.
Dr. Campbell ultimately ventured out to Mercer County Community College where she started in career services and has held several titles and positions, including the inaugural director of their online learning program. She reached her current title of Vice President of Student Affairs during her illustrious 40 plus years of service to the college and its students.
A fixture in Trenton, Dr. Campbell is committed to the capital city and education of its residents. In addition to being a former President of the Trenton Board of Education, she is a trustee of Shiloh Baptist Church and serves on the board of the Shiloh Community Development Corporation. You’ll also find Dr. Campbell serving as a board member of the United Way of Greater Mercer County and as co-chair of the Board of Directors for Building One New Jersey.
Dr. Campbell has remained in Trenton due to her connection to the city and love for her neighborhood. She still frequents Cadwalader Park to connect with students and the local community. As key part of MCCC’s expansion into the city, Dr. Campbell is excited about the future and believes “education transforms lives.”
