WASHINGTON - Lindsey Campbell was recently hired at American University as the Chief Development Officer for Athletics. Campbell came to AU from nearby George Mason University, where she had served as the Associate Director of Development for the Patriot Club since October, 2019, with a focus on engaging major gift prospects. As she gets started in her new role at American, Campbell took some time to talk about her career path and what excites her about being an Eagle.

What was it that most attracted you to making the move from George Mason to American University?
American University is a distinguished higher education institution, and its commitment to academics and service resonated with me. American University's Change Can't Wait Campaign, with the Center for Athletic Performance as its sole capital priority, signals to me that AU values Athletics. The progress and donor commitment shown to this project is outstanding, and I am thrilled to be a part of bringing the building to life through philanthropic relationships.

In addition, AU Athletics' core values of Integrity, Respect, Accountability, and Excellence are a perfect fit for my own personal and professional values. I'm excited to meet the AU alumni-athlete and donor community!

What does your job as Chief Development Officer for Athletics entail, and how does your role fit within the larger campus community?
Great question! I see my role as a conduit for the priorities of AU Athletics to enhance our student-athletes' experience, matched with a donor's interest and support. When those two things align, we open opportunities for growth. My role is also to tell AU's story, and the importance of giving to Athletics, as athletics touches every facet of the greater University.

How did you get into athletics development and what most appeals to you about this career path?
When I worked for Mason's ticket office (way back when!), I interacted with many donors at our games and events. I eventually translated my skill set to start in development, trained myself in the donor process, and felt a sense of accomplishment in building donor relationships. Returning to Mason Athletics for the Patriot Club in 2019 was an incredibly special experience and I treasure the donor, coach, and staff relationships I have in Fairfax.

What opportunities do you see for growth with regards to AU Athletics, and what would success look like to you a few years down the road?
There is so much opportunity for AU Athletics, and I'm excited to meet with the AU community to have those important conversations for growth! Commitments to new scholarships, capital projects, and sport specific programmatic support are essential to a robust athletic department. Building new and rekindling relationships with American University will lead to more success for our programs, coaches, and athletes.

How do you fill your time outside of work? What interests or hobbies are you passionate about?
I'll be attending as many American athletic events as possible!  Outside of that, I am a loyal member of Orangetheory McLean, you can often find me plane-spotting at Gravelly Point, and I enjoy attending concerts – particularly if John Mayer is playing.  I also teach as an adjunct faculty member in Mason's Sport Management department, and I am finishing my dissertation for my Ph.D. in Higher Education.

Is there anything more you'd like to share?
Have a question about giving? Would you like to talk about your support? Are you looking to get more involved with AU Athletics? Send me a note – let's connect! LindseyC@american.edu.

Go Eagles!