First OPM Leader Remembered

Dr. Alan K. "Scotty" Campbell, the Office of Personnel Management's first director, died Thursday at his home in Haverford, Pa. He was 74.

Campbell is best known as the architect of the Civil Service Reform Act of 1978, which overhauled the federal personnel management and compensation system.

Campbell served as chairman of the U.S. Civil Service Commission from 1977 to 1978, and as OPM's first director from 1979 to 1980.

President Jimmy Carter characterized civil service reform under Campbell as "among the most visible and far-reaching accomplishments of my administration."

In 1980 Campbell joined ARA Services (now ARAMARK) as executive vice president for management and public affairs, a position he held until his retirement in 1990. Campbell also served as dean of the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs at Syracuse University from 1969 to 1976. In 1993, Syracuse established the Alan K. Campbell Public Affairs Institute, which is "dedicated to continuing his unique talent in applying academic thought, research and knowledge to improve real-world situations."

Current OPM Director Janice Lachance released the following statement on Campbell's death:

"I am saddened to hear about the death of "Scotty" Campbell, the first director of the U.S. Office of Personnel Management. Federal employees have lost a true friend and champion.

"Campbell devoted much of his life to the study of public management and the preparation of young men and women for public service.

"When faced with a civil service commission embroiled in conflicting responsibilities and challenges, President Jimmy Carter turned to "Scotty" for assistance in reforming the civil service.

"And, when OPM was created in January 1979, it was only fitting that the president turn to "Scotty" to lead the agency. During his tenure, he laid the foundation of today's OPM--one that does not tolerate merit system abuses, poor performance, or a system mired in red tape and bureaucracy.

"His contributions to our nation will live on. He was the kind of public servant we should all strive to be. I am grateful for his leadership and his legacy."