Darrel Campbell studied at Berea College in Kentucky for two years before graduating from the University of Cincinnati with a BS in chemistry and attending the Wharton Business School at the University of Pennsylvania. Campbell retains US patents, published many articles in trade publications, and was profiled in an issue of "Chemical Week". During his career, Campbell held positions in three multibillion-dollar international companies. He has traveled globally, even living in South America for two years. He currently lives in Portland, Oregon, with his wife of over fifty years.