July 15, 2025—Campbell High School is welcoming a familiar face back to campus—Principal Paul Gillihan, an educator with 26 years of experience and a passion for building strong school communities.
The Smyrna community first welcomed Principal Gillihan to Campbell with open arms 19 years ago as a Social Studies teacher and softball coach. Now, after serving as principal at Griffin Middle School and most recently at Wheeler High School, Principal Gillihan is returning to where his Cobb Schools journey began.
“Joining the Campbell High School community feels like coming home,” Principal Gillihan said. “Now, returning as part of the Spartan Family fills me with excitement and purpose. I’m energized by the opportunity to collaborate with dedicated educators, families, and students to inspire and empower the next generation.”
Known for his student-centered leadership and deep commitment to collaboration, Principal Gillihan brings a wealth of experience and a heart for service to Campbell High School. Learn more about what motivates him, his vision for the school, and what students and families can expect in the months ahead.
Question: What does “student success” mean to you?
Answer: “Student success is not a one-size-fits-all concept—it looks different for every individual. For some students, success means excelling academically; for others, it’s thriving in extracurricular activities, discovering a passion for the arts or athletics, or finding a sense of purpose through CTAE programs and clubs. To me, true student success is about growth—helping each student become the best version of themselves. It’s about equipping them with the skills, confidence, and character to navigate life beyond the classroom. Our role as educators is to create opportunities, remove barriers, and provide the support they need to grow, learn, and thrive in their own unique way.”
Question: Under your leadership, how will you build on the school’s successes?
Answer: “Campbell High School has a proud tradition of educational excellence, and a strong foundation built by passionate educators and leaders. As the new principal, my first priority will be to listen—to our students, staff, families, and community members—to gain a clear and comprehensive understanding of where CHS stands academically, socially, and culturally.
Dr. Watkins, and Dr. Walker, before her, laid a strong groundwork by ensuring our teachers have the resources and support they need to drive student learning forward. I’m committed to honoring their legacy while working collaboratively with our administrative team to take the next steps forward. Together, we’ll focus on every student, every day—elevating achievement, strengthening school culture, and creating opportunities that empower all students to reach their full potential.”
Question: What role do you see parents and the community playing in supporting student success?
Answer: “From my very first principalship at Griffin Middle School, I’ve believed that the school belongs to the parents and the community—I’m simply honored to serve as its leader for a period of time. True student success is a collective effort, and no school can reach its full potential without strong, meaningful partnerships with families and the community.
At Campbell High School, I plan to lean heavily on these relationships as we continue the tradition of educational excellence. I've already begun connecting with community members and former Griffin families to listen, learn, and collaborate on how we can best support our students. Whether it's through mentorships, volunteer opportunities, or shared initiatives, I believe that when schools and communities work together, we create the kind of environment where every student can thrive.”
Question: What do you like most about being an educator?
Answer: “Without a doubt, the most rewarding part of being an educator is the people—our students, staff, families, and the community. Over my 26 years in education, I’ve been incredibly fortunate to work with so many inspiring individuals. What stays with me the most are the relationships built and the lives impacted.
My favorite memories are when former students return to share where life has taken them—whether they're building careers, starting families, or giving back to their communities. Some of my former Campbell High School students are now educators here in Cobb County, and that fills me with immense pride. There’s no greater joy than seeing students grow into confident, successful adults. That’s the heart of this work—knowing that we’ve helped shape lives in meaningful, lasting ways.”
Question: Outside of school, where might parents and students find you, and what’s a fun fact about you?
Answer: “Outside of school, I enjoy spending quality time with my family and exploring new places through travel. My husband, MJ, and I are proud parents of four amazing sons. Newlon (25) is married and entering his fourth year of medical school, Jeremiah (20) is thriving in Rochester Institute of Technology’s deaf post-secondary program, Max (19) will begin at Kennesaw State this fall, and Ben (18) is headed to Georgia Southern. Yes—we’re officially entering the empty nester stage!
You’ll often find me hiking the trails at Kennesaw Mountain, catching a show at the Fox Theatre with MJ, or cheering on CHS students at athletic events and fine arts performances. I'm a proud Arkansas Razorback fan and a lifelong sports enthusiast, so I plan to be a visible and enthusiastic supporter of all things Campbell. One fun fact that might surprise the CHS community: I’ve completed two marathons—Memphis and Chicago—and I’m seriously considering running one more. Stay tuned!”
