New Mid-Career program Director Bruce Campbell focused on enhancing engagement and professional development opportunities

Bruce Campbell

Penn GSE’s Mid-Career Doctoral Program in Educational Leadership is an executive-style program designed for seasoned professionals looking to elevate their careers and gain new skills. Bruce Campbell, the program’s new director, is leading the charge. He is on a similar journey — honing his expertise as an educator and scholar while emphasizing work-life balance.

“Our students are high-achieving mid-career professionals — leaders, principals, directors, and superintendents — who take on the demanding role of doctoral students,” said Campbell, who is also a senior fellow at Penn GSE. “Balancing both worlds is no easy feat.”

Campbell previously served as an associate professor and director of the Educational Leadership and Supervisory Certification programs at Arcadia University’s School of Education. His educational and professional journey forged his strong ties to the Philadelphia community. He holds a master’s in urban education from Temple University and a doctorate in educational leadership and learning technologies from Drexel University.

Campbell’s career includes pivotal roles in Philadelphia’s education landscape, including positions at Research for Better Schools and the Philadelphia Education Fund, which offered him deep insights into public education. As a distinguished educator for the Pennsylvania Department of Education, he traveled across the state’s eastern half, assisting school leaders with data, assessments, and program evaluations.

After his tenure at Arcadia, Campbell was drawn to Penn GSE by its academic excellence, leadership, and commitment to Philadelphia schools. “I’ve spent years in educational leadership, guiding students through their master’s or doctorate. Joining a program with such a strong legacy and shaping its future is an exciting opportunity,” he said.

In his new role, Campbell is focused on enhancing communication with three key groups: Penn GSE staff and faculty, students, and alumni. He’s identifying engagement and professional development opportunities, aiming to recruit Mid-Career alumni for campus and virtual events like panel discussions and networking opportunities.

Campbell also plans to boost professional development offerings, such as writing support, leadership training, and networking with alumni, existing cohorts, and industry professionals. He encourages mid-career students to advocate for their career growth by publishing and sharing their research.

“I want them to do more than just complete their dissertations — I want them to publish their work and present at conferences and seminars,” he said.

Looking ahead, Campbell hopes to teach a methodology or social justice course in the coming years. While immersing himself in the Mid-Career program, he remains committed to personal interests, including spending time with his family and pursuing his passions for travel, music, and visual arts.