Pathways to Leadership: Politics

Politics: April 8, 2021 6:00 – 7:00 p.m.

Invited Speakers: Myrna Campbell, chair, Haywood Democratic Party, and Glenda Weinart, chairwoman of the Buncombe County Republican Party.

Moderator: Dr. Teri Domagalski

Myrna Campbell

Myrna Campbell served in various capacities during her 30 years of employment at Southwestern Community College in Sylva, NC. Her first 14 years were spent as a faculty member and an instructional administrator for the Human Services Division. In 1988, she transitioned to the administrative side of the house when she was appointed by the college president to serve as Public Information Officer. Myrna was reassigned to the Student Services Division and was appointed director of Enrollment Services - a position she retained until her retirement in 2004.

Although Myrna had no plans for a second career, a series of events led her into the political arena, beginning in 2005 with her election as chairman of the Saunook Democratic Precinct in Haywood County. Shortly after assuming the role of precinct chair, former University of Tennessee football standout Heath Shuler moved into the precinct and announced his candidacy for the US House of Representatives. Myrna was one of the first volunteers to sign on with his campaign and after a few months, she was offered the position of Assistant Finance Director.

When Shuler won in November 2006, Myrna accepted an offer to work in the 11th District Congressional Office in Asheville, NC. She held the position of director of constituent services until congressman Shuler decided not to seek re-election in 2012.

First elected by party members in April 2015, Myrna is currently serving her third term as chairwoman of the Haywood County Democratic Party.

A native of Haywood County, Myrna holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from Western Carolina University. She also completed graduate level coursework at NC State University, including a Leadership Institute for Community College Administrators.