Honored to Be Among Women of Excellence - Phyllis J. Campbell
I have always been struck by the energy of the Women's University Club — women of all backgrounds, bound by a shared spirit of curiosity, generosity, and lifelong learning. Their motto, “Leading, Learning & Living Life to its Absolute Fullest,” isn’t just aspirational — it’s alive in every conversation, class, and connection that happens here.
That’s why it was such a profound honor to be named one of this year’s Brava! Award recipients by the Women’s University Club Foundation. This award celebrates “Women of Excellence” in our state — women who’ve made an impact through service to others. To be recognized alongside two other women I deeply admire, and in the company of scholarship winners whose stories moved me, was both humbling and inspiring.
As I reflected on this moment, I shared three lessons that have shaped my life and leadership — lessons that align deeply with the values of this remarkable community.
1. Pay It Forward
When I was a young woman, uncertain about whether I could afford to attend college, a scholarship arrived on the very day my parents and I were making that decision. That scholarship didn’t just pay for tuition — it sent a message: We believe in you. Keep going. It gave my parents the confidence to send me to Washington State University, and it gave me the foundation for everything that followed.
That’s why the stories of today’s scholarship recipients resonated so powerfully with me. I see in them the same promise, the same spark. And I want to say to them — and to every young woman striving toward a dream — don’t forget to reach back and pull someone else forward. That’s how we build a legacy of leadership.
2. Get Ready and Be Ready
Life rarely follows a straight path. Doors open unexpectedly — and just as suddenly, they can close. The key is to be prepared, to stay curious, and to take risks even when you’re unsure where they’ll lead.
In my own journey, there have been moments when adversity knocked the wind out of me. But looking back, I realize those challenges taught me to walk through uncertainty with courage. Being “ready” isn’t just about skill or timing — it’s about mindset. It’s about believing that even when one opportunity fades, another will come — and being willing to walk through it with grace.
3. Always Find the Silver Lining
Earlier this year, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. It was a moment that brought everything into sharper focus — my priorities, my purpose, my community. What could have been a period of fear became, instead, a time of deep reflection and surprising strength.
Thanks to the unwavering support of colleagues, friends, and family, I discovered a deeper layer of resilience — and with it, a renewed sense of service. This experience has already made me a better leader, a more intentional mentor, and a more compassionate community member.
In closing, I’m grateful — not just for the award, but for what it represents: a celebration of women who serve, who lift as they climb, and who believe that excellence is not a destination, but a lifelong pursuit. To the Women’s University Club Foundation, thank you for this honor. To the young women forging their own paths, we are cheering for you. And to my fellow honorees — I am proud to stand alongside you.
Let us all continue leading, learning, and living life to its absolute fullest.
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