When you talk to Kenny Campos, a junior majoring in Accounting and the current President of Beta Alpha Psi, there’s a calm confidence in his voice — the kind that comes from perseverance and purpose. For Kenny, leadership isn’t about titles or recognition; it’s about creating opportunities where others can grow.
After the unexpected cancelation of Meet the Firms this fall, Kenny saw not a setback, but a chance to rebuild. “We want this to be a year of connection,” he said. “It’s about giving students more opportunities to learn, network, and feel part of something bigger.”
That vision didn’t start in the fall semester — it began long before. During the summer, while many students were taking a well-earned break, Kenny was already planning for the year ahead. He spent hours reaching out to recruiters, alumni, and employers, trying to establish relationships and events that could define Beta Alpha Psi’s next chapter.
The process wasn’t easy. “Rejection is the number one thing in business,” he said. “You send emails, and most go unanswered. But every ‘no’ just motivates you to keep going.”
Through these challenges, Kenny learned two of the most important lessons in leadership — adaptability and resilience. Both would shape his approach to leading Beta Alpha Psi this year.
With membership up to 40 students, compared to 25 the previous academic year, Kenny is looking to combat the narrative of Cal State LA being a commuter campus. He wants to fully integrate students and establish a stronger sense of belonging within the organization.
“We’re trying to build a real community,” Kenny explained. “Even though many students commute, we want them to feel like this is their space — somewhere they can build relationships and grow professionally.”
To do that, Beta Alpha Psi has developed a mix of in-person and Zoom events. “The challenge we face is greater attendance online compared to in person,” Kenny said. “The pandemic has made people comfortable behind a screen, but that also means students miss out on opportunities to build networking skills.”
That’s why Kenny and the cabinet are introducing interactive opportunities such as beach cleanups, bowling nights, and game nights — events that create a balance between fun and professional development. These activities encourage students to step out of their comfort zones while building a sense of community.
“These events help members come out of their shells,” Kenny said. “Our peers today could be the connections that open doors for us tomorrow.”
Kenny is quick to acknowledge that his growth as a leader hasn’t happened alone. “I personally feel that without the help, guidance, and support I’ve received from everyone around me, I wouldn’t be here,” he shared. “Especially to my fellow officers and the other business clubs — without their help and support, I wouldn’t have met such wonderful people.” His gratitude reflects the very essence of what he’s trying to build — a culture of collaboration, encouragement, and shared success.