From Malcolm X to STLCC, the Story behind Zerrie Campbell

 “In my mind, to be a true educator means to have the ability to change lives in and out of the classroom,” said Campbell.

 Campbell, who has as served as the interim president at STLCC-Forest Park since 2008, was appointed as Meramec’s interim president for the 2010-2011 academic year following former President Paul Pai’s, Ed.D., resignation. Meramec Vice President of Academic Affairs George Wasson will serve as acting president until August 2010 and said he looks forward to working with Campbell during these troubled times.

 Campbell was born in Chicago, Ill. during a time of racism and persecution. On May 14, 1970, while attending Jackson State, she recalled a group of protesters that were confronted by city and state police. The police opened fire, killing two students and injuring 12.

"You never know your place in history until you look back on it and open your eyes," said Campbell.

 In 1972, Campbell earned her B.A. in English from Northern Illinois University and in 1974 earned her M.S. in secondary professional education. After completing her degrees at Northern, Campbell earned a M.A. in English at Chicago State University in 1978.

 Campbell began her career as the assistant dean of student support services in 1974 at Malcolm X College.

She remained in that position until 1977 when she became an instructor of English and communications

In 1983, she was hired  by Harold Washington College as an assistant professor of English, where she remained until 1987.

"I love teaching; even as an administrator I still taught classes, " said Campbell.

During the same year, she become associate vice chancellor for liberal arts/sciences at the city colleges of Chicago. 

Campbell returned to Malcolm X College in 1989 as the vice president of academic affairs.  " I did leave for 10 years for another position within the same school system, but when I returned I was a different person.  I was no longer Zerrie Campbell;  I had grown," said Campbell.

She remained in this position until 1992 when she was name the first women president for the college.

"I did not know nor did I aspire to be the president anywhere; I just wanted to be in the mix.  After seeing the skills and talents of the students were starting to change, I felt I could be more effective by affecting the lives of more people outside of the classroom rather than in the classroom," Campbell said.

Campbell claims to be a revolutionary and said she believes that change can be made and should be made effectively and efficiently from inside the problem.

Chancellor Zelma Harris said, "Campbell has been a very strong, inspirational women in the educational community."  Campbell has won several personal awards, such as the Outstanding Educator Award in 1998 from the 7th Congressional District, The Outstanding Women Award from Harold Washington College in 1999, and is listed as one of 100 "People 'N' The Know" by N'Digo Magazine out of Chicago.

While at the city college of Chicago, Campbell negotiated with local businesses and organizations for increased funding for scholarships.  She is a member of the NAFE (National Association of Female Executives) and numerous other professional and civic organizations, both local and national.

On Dec. 6, 2004, in honor of her dedicated service and commitment to familyhood, Campbell was named "Queen Mother" by the Shule Ya Watoto (School for Children), which is used as part of the Kwanza celebrations.

"With reward comes responsibility," said Campbell.  Status of  "Queen Mother" commands attention for political and social affairs while serving as a respected advisor, teacher and regal role model.

"In Africa, the Queen Mother is the reigning authority for resolving conflicts.  She is known as the kings' confidant/advisor," said Campbell.

Campbell said she is aware of the hardships that Meramec has been through over the last year and believes she's up for the challenge.  "I've always said you're known by your work and that opens doors for you to learn and aspire," said Campbell.