Dr. Carlos Campo assumed the top leadership post at Regent University Sunday, becoming eighth president to lead the school and the first Hispanic president of a private Christian college in Virginia.
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"I feel privileged to be transitioning into this new leadership role at Regent University," Campo said. He praised university leadership for developing the school's standard of excellence over a short period of time.
"We are poised to deepen our positive impact on the local, regional, national, and international community by holding fast to an uncompromising love for God and pursuit of excellence - cornerstones of higher education," Campo said.
"I am deeply grateful to my wife and family for their love and support, and to the many people who have breathed life into my spirit over the years," he added.
Campo first joined Regent as vice president of academic affairs in 2008. As president, he succeeds Dr. Pat Robertson, the school's founder and chancellor.
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Dr. Carlos Campo: Leading Regent University into the Future
He's passionate about education and committed to his student body. Meet Dr. Carlos Campo, President of Regent University.
"We are going to challenge you to know who you are in God," Dr. Campo tells students. "We are going to challenge your intellect, and we are going to challenge your emotions. You are going to graduate Regent with a skill set that goes far beyond the market."
Dr. Campo's desire to pursue excellence is birthed out of his own family heritage. As a first generation Cuban American, he credits much of his success to his parent's fortitude.
"They made a way for all of us kids," Dr. Campo tells The 700 Club. "My father came to this country; he had $20 in his pocket. He was in New York City and had a dream and made it come true. My mother basically at the age of 13 was orphaned, and she and her sister had the fortitude to walk to a local radio station and audition for a show and made it. They literally made a way for themselves and for us. Those are the sorts of stories those from our generation tell often of our parents."
His mother, Betty Clooney, was a singer. His aunt, Rosemary Clooney, was known as one of America's most beloved performers. His father, Pupi Campo, graced the stage as a legendary Latin orchestra leader and recording artist.
"I grew up around people that were really talented. Dad and Mom certainly instilled those qualities in me never, never believe mediocre is okay."
Campo's father's determination encouraged him to pursue his dreams.
"He was an immigrant, who didn't speak a word of English, came to this country with nothing except a dream to be an entertainer and be a successful one. He was able to achieve that, so, he also worked very hard. This idea of hard work was something dad established in me."
His mother instilled in him a love for literature and the Lord.
"My mother reading at my bedside was my earliest memory. There was discovery in the narrative that, of course, my mother brought to life. A lifelong entertainer, she was a wonderful reader, and to have that wash over my ears and into my mind developed in me a love for learning."
Tragically, his mother died of a brain aneurysm when Dr. Campo was just 17. He recalls, "When we lost our mom, we made a commitment to one another as a family, not unusual in Latino family. We said we know that God has called us to ministry and we know God has called us to one another."
Dr. Campo says he knew he was called to the classroom. He taught at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas and received numerous awards as an outstanding educator.
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WATCH: Dr. Carlos Campo's Story
