FOSTER CAMPBELL
Thanks for 47 Years of Service to Louisiana
Foster Campbell, a dedicated elected official, accomplished businessman, and farmer from Bossier Parish, has been a driving force in public service in Louisiana for decades. Currently, as a Public Service Commissioner (District 5), Foster has tirelessly advocated for reforms, transparency, and fairness within the utility sector, championing lower rates, renewable energy, and consumer protection. His legacy as a Public Service Commissioner, and prior to that as a State Senator for Northwest Louisiana, extends beyond legislation and encompasses initiatives that have impacted Louisianans’ lives. Foster’s commitment to improving our educational system, his advocacy for modernizing the state’s oil and gas tax structure, and his support for community-driven initiatives demonstrate his unwavering dedication to positive change. Specific accomplishments include:
- As a State Senator, Foster spearheaded a successful three-year campaign to regulate rates charged by rural electric cooperatives. This initiative resulted in lowered electric bills for around a million state residents.
- Campbell played a pivotal role in establishing the $1-billion Educational Excellence Fund, funded by Louisiana's Tobacco Settlement, to benefit local schools. This initiative demonstrated his commitment to improving educational opportunities for communities. The Educational Excellence Fund was patterned after Foster’s previous initiative to create the Bossier Educational Excellence Fund, which funds classroom improvements in Bossier Parish schools.
- Co-authoring legislation in 2001, Campbell contributed to the passage of "Do Not Call" laws that shielded consumers from unwanted sales calls at home, thereby enhancing consumer privacy and protection.
- As a member of the Public Service Commission, Campbell has championed initiatives to increase responsiveness and transparency in utility companies and the commission itself. He successfully led efforts to prohibit utilities from buying meals and gifts for commissioners and staff, improving ethical standards.
- Campbell's advocacy for public involvement is evident through his annual hosting of public and Commission meetings in his district, creating spaces for direct engagement between constituents and regulatory processes.
- A strong advocate for lower utility rates and renewable energy adoption, Foster's influence has contributed to shaping more affordable and environmentally sustainable energy options for the state.
- His commitment to social welfare is reflected in his measures to assist victims of family violence, such as waiving utility deposits for these individuals and ensuring that utilities aren't disconnected during extreme weather conditions.
- He has championed lowering the price of inmate telephone calls in state jails so that families can communicate with their incarcerated loved ones without paying excessive fees.
The Gala will bring together distinguished speakers, including former SWEPCO President and Chief Operating Officer Malcolm Smoak, former City Councilmen Joe Shyne and Willie Bradford, Pastor David Melville, and former Chief of Staff to Foster Campbell, Bill Robertson. In addition, we have extended an invitation to Governor John Bel Edwards to appear as a speaker. The evening will feature tributes, videos, and heartfelt messages.
The Foster Campbell Recognition Gala will pay tribute to Foster Campbell while acting as a fundraising event for CeJay Cares. Cejay Cares is a nonprofit organization committed to empowering women and youth in Northwest Louisiana through various programs and partnerships. With a focus on fostering personal growth and creating opportunities for advancement within the community, CeJay Cares has significantly impacted countless lives. For more information on CeJay Cares, please visit cejaycares.org. Please note that contributions for this event should be made to “CeJay Cares” and are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law. CeJay Cares is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. (Charles Johnson Ministries Inc d/b/a CeJay Cares)
Please see the options below to purchase tickets ($30.00 each, with meals included) as well as sponsorship opportunities.
