Some 25,324 students later, Herb Kerner, dean of Admissions, is saying goodbye to Campbell University.
“Herb Kerner began his distinguished career at a time when Campbell University’s new student enrollment was stagnant,” said Dr. John Roberson, vice president for Enrollment Management and Marketing. “Over the past 26 years, he has reversed that trend and for the past 26 years admission of new students has shown continuing growth.”
Kerner credits meeting families and students as his inspiration.
“I enjoy what I do,” said Kerner. “There is nothing like helping a young person pursue their dreams.”
During Kerner’s career at Campbell he implemented new ways to make visitation day successful, brought in new recruitment techniques and finessed the tuition exchange programs for faculty and staff.
“In the last decades, we’ve made great strides in giving scholarships,” said Kerner. “We want to recognize academic excellence and that has resulted in a high quality of students.”
Prior to his work in Admissions, Kerner enlisted in the Army when he was 17. Over his military career, he was promoted to Lt. Col. He earned a degree in Business and International Economics. Kerner came to Campbell as a professor of Military Science. Dr. Norman Wiggins, former president of Campbell University, asked him to work with Admissions.
Kerner didn’t just oversee admissions; he was in charge of Veterans Affairs and Financial Aid.
“The administration was helpful and understanding with my ideas for growth,” said Kerner.
A few years ago, the Admissions, Veteran’s Affairs and Financial Aid departments were moved into new buildings. The Admissions Office was given a homier look complete with a living room the admissions counselors use to talk with families with no distractions.
Kerner only sees more growth in Campbell’s future.
“Campbell has over 3,000 undergraduate students enrolled this semester. Within 10 years I predict they will have at least 5,000 undergraduate students.”
Kerner credits everyone on campus with the student’s education and experience.
“From the physical plant staff to the professors, we all work together for the good of the students,” he said.