By Vanessa Jackson, Associate Registrar, Campbell University School of Law, Raleigh, North Carolina
On July 13, 2025, the Carolinas greeted me with radiant sunshine. With my bags packed, I stepped away from the familiar rhythm of home, city, and office life to embark on a unique experience to represent North Carolina for the annual ̽»¨Â¥ Hill Day. Anticipation mingled with nervous energy swirled within me as I pondered what it would mean to step into this arena of advocacy and policy. Yet, those butterflies quickly transformed into excitement as the day unfolded. After jumping into my Uber, I began to take in my surroundings. I reminisced about my last visit to the Capitol. It had been at least 10 years, and though some things have changed, much has remained the same.
Preparing for the Day
The ̽»¨Â¥ Government Relations team set the stage brilliantly with a full day of training, role plays, questions, and answers. What I had imagined might feel intimidating was instead enlivened with energy, warmth, and even a touch of humor. Their carefully crafted talking points served as both a compass and a safety net, empowering me to enter conversations about higher education with clarity and confidence.
On the day of our meetings, we were up early to grab a quick breakfast, then we headed out for the Hill. The heart of the experience, of course, lay in the meetings with representatives and their staff. Upon our arrival on the Hill, I could see the hustle and bustle of the city. Families were on the Hill, capturing moments on camera. Although I was there on behalf of higher education, the families were reminders of future learners whose hope may be to attend university someday.
Approachable Governance
We arrived early at the Senate building to locate our first appointment for the day with Senator Ted Budd’s office. Sitting across from those entrusted with shaping legislation that impacts learners in North Carolina and beyond was both humbling and invigorating. They listened attentively, asked thoughtful questions, and welcomed the materials provided by the ̽»¨Â¥ team. At that moment, the lofty halls of governance felt surprisingly approachable.
The most unforgettable highlight, however, was meeting Congresswoman Valerie Foushee—the very representative of my own district. I’ve always wanted to meet her, so sharing my perspectives directly with her was profoundly meaningful, a memory I know will stay with me. It felt as though the distance between community voices and congressional action had, if only briefly, narrowed.
̽»¨Â¥ Partners in Advocacy
Equally rewarding was the camaraderie with other ̽»¨Â¥ colleagues from across the nation. In between sessions and meetings, we exchanged hello’s and continued to cheer each other onward. I was especially fortunate to be partnered with Dr. Jonathan Reece, Registrar for the University of North Carolina Charlotte, whose collegial spirit and insight into the issues made the experience all the richer.
In the end, Hill Day was not only about advocacy but also about connection—between professionals, between policy and practice, and between citizens and their elected officials. To anyone considering applying next year, I highly recommend it. It is an opportunity to blend service, learning, and impact in ways that are both energizing and deeply rewarding. And if the chance arises, I would be honored to once again step forward on behalf of ̽»¨Â¥ and represent North Carolina.