October 6, 2026 — Through his decades-long career as an educator,  Campbell Principal Paul Gillihan has made it his mission to set each student up for success after graduation.

Originally from a small town in Arkansas, Principal Gillihan began his teaching career in Louisiana and later worked in Mississippi before discovering Cobb as the best place to teach, lead, and learn 21 years ago.

Before he stepped into the role of principal, the experienced educator started his career in Cobb as a teacher and softball coach at Campbell High School. Next, Gillihan brought “high hopes” to Griffin Middle School when he became principal there. It was Griffin that his bond with the Smyrna community grew even stronger.

At Griffin, Gillihan brought energy and creativity to the school experience, even hosting a Dancing with the Stars event to bring students and staff together.

After two years leading Campbell, Principal Gillihan still takes that same positive mindset and approach to Cobb's largest high school.

"I really do care about the students, their growth, and I want them to value high school and enjoy high school," the veteran school leader shared. 

Under Principal Gillihan's leadership, Campbell has taken big strides academically over the past few years. 

Along with being named a 2026 AP Honor School, Campbell saw the biggest jump in graduation rates in Cobb for the class of 2025, at an impressive 92.6%, up 5.7% from the year before.

Campbell's average SAT score also improved by a full 20 points for students to an impressive average of 1102. Campbell is one of eight Cobb Schools with an average score over 1100.

Beyond the impressive academic leaps the school has taken with Gillihan's guidance, he's most proud of the culture he's helped create. It's a noticeable shift in energy and positivity that radiates among the more than 3,000 students who attend Campbell every day. 

"I always tell them on the morning announcements, 'Make good choices, do the right thing, and you'll have a great day. And if no one else tells you, Mr. G loves each and every one of you,'" said Principal Gillihan. 

When he's not at Campbell, the longtime Cobb educator loves to travel and spend time with his four sons. Most recently, he traveled to Morocco and looks forward to more trips with family. 

Join us in wishing Principal Gillihan and all principals across Cobb Schools a happy National Principals Month!