Lt. Gen. (Retired) Susan S. Lawrence, a 1979 graduate of Campbell University, the first woman appointed as chief information officer for the U.S. Army and a current member of the Campbell University Board of Trustees will deliver the commencement address at Campbell’s spring graduation ceremony on May 9.
During her military career, Lawrence climbed the ranks to become a leader in defense information technology and communications systems. As the U.S. Army’s CIO, she managed defense enterprise systems, IT infrastructure and advanced technology used by the military and the supporting civilian workforce. She also helped develop the U.S. Army Cyber Command and worked directly with senior staff members — including the Army’s secretary and chief of staff — to reduce costs and improve the effectiveness of cyber and IT solutions.
A native of Ida Grove, Iowa, Lawrence received her Bachelor of Science degree in psychology from Campbell University and went on to earn a Master’s degree in information systems management from the University of Georgia. She holds honor doctorates from both Campbell and Dakota State University.
“General Lawrence’s personal and professional journey is a powerful one, and we are delighted that she will share it with Campbell’s Class of 2026 at May Commencement,” said Campbell University President Dr. William M. Downs. “From Ida Grove to Buies Creek and then on to the heights of the U.S. Army, her’s is an impressive story that is sure to inspire and motivate our graduates.”
In 2007, Lawrence was honored with Campbell’s Algernon Sydney Sullivan Award, given to members of the University community who demonstrate noble character, service to humanity and leadership. In 2012, she received the Lifetime Achievement Alumna Award from Campbell’s School of Education & Human Sciences, and in 2018, she was named a Distinguished Alumna of Campbell University.
Currently, Lawrence is president and CEO of the Armed Forces Communications and Electronics Association, a nonprofit organization that serves as a professional forum for connecting military, government, industry and academia, specifically focusing on communications, information technology, intelligence and global security.
Prior, she served as a managing director of national security practice for Accenture Federal Services (AFS). She also served as senior vice president at Booz Allen Hamilton in the Defense Market Group, helping lead business initiatives in the defense and security markets.