Community News Archives - ��ӴӴ

Students in the ��ӴӴ College of Arts and Sciences Recognized in Awards Ceremony

Office of University Communications — Fri, 24 Apr 2026 18:26:14 +0000

Students Honored for Academic Excellence, Service and Achievements

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Faculty in the College of Arts and Sciences recently presented awards to students in recognition of their hard work, dedication and excellence.

Professor and Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences Dr. Robert Prickett began the ceremony by commending the winners. “This day is about recognizing your hard work, dedication, and excellence,” he praised. “We are excited to celebrate this day with you.”

The Department of Communication, Art, & Design

The Carlisle Jones Art Award – Keri Nuzum

Given in honor of Elizabeth Carlisle Jones, the award recognizes a student who exhibits exceptional creativity, productivity, craftmanship and presentation in the areas of painting, drawing and printmaking, or other two-dimensional work.

The Art History Award – Jose Aviles

Presented to the student whose research results in a well-written paper that clearly presents an original idea in the field of art history.

The Graphic Design Award – Emily Blum and Laura Roberts

Presented to a senior majoring in graphic design, recognizing superior academic achievement, creativity, and work ethic. Particular attention is paid to those characteristics that predict professional success in the graphic design and/or visual communication industry.

The Photography Award – Dakota Hawxwell

Recognizes a senior who has excelled in photography or photojournalism. This student displays an exceptional understanding of both the technical and creative aspects of the photographic medium. This award recognizes superior achievement in academics and service to the department and the university.

The James Rash Award – Jillian Enlow

Presented to a student who exhibits outstanding creativity, productivity, craftsmanship and presentation in the areas of ceramics, art appreciation, drawing and painting.

The Public Relations Award – Camila Lezcano and Jack Iannibelli

Presented to a public relations major who excels in the classroom and in utilizing public relations principles to support campus and community programs and projects.

The Video and Film Award – Bethany Payne

Recognizes a student who has excelled in videography and has sought opportunities both in class and on campus to cultivate their eye for cinematic productions. This student displays an enthusiasm for storytelling and outstanding academic achievement in this field.

The Department of English

The Senior English Major Award and The English Education Award – Morgan Lilly

The first award recognizes a senior English major for excellence in grades, character, leadership ability, and creativity. The second award is presented to a senior with excellence in grades, teaching potential, character, leadership ability, and creativity.

The Department of Health, Sport, & Physical Education

The Physical Health Education Award – Savannah Crisp

Honors a pre-service teacher who excels in physical and health education studies and classroom teaching.

The Department of Music

The Music Achievement Award – Elliott Moulder

Recognizes the student who has demonstrated outstanding musical achievement during the current academic year.

The First-Year Music Award – Arturo Ayala

Presented to a freshman music major who has demonstrated outstanding potential and significant achievement during the first year of study in academic and musical studies.

The Symphonic Band Award – Michael Silver

Recognizes the band member who has exhibited outstanding performance, participation and attitude in the Symphonic Band.

The David M. Schweppe Memorial Award – Junior Boakye and Peter Moore

The Shelby Rotary Club presents this award to the graduating seniors who made the most significant contribution to the university’s music program and significant academic and professional achievements.

The Orchestra Award – Kaitlyn Edwards, Max Nicholson and Joseph Bourne

Presented to students who exemplify excellence in preparation and in superb performance, as well as devotion to music.

The Chorister’s Excellence Award – Peter Moore

Presented to an upcoming graduate who has presented exceptional dedication to ��ӴӴ Choirs.

The Chorister’s Service Award – Peter Moore

Presented to an upcoming graduate who has demonstrated an exceptional willingness to serve ��ӴӴ Choirs.

The Department of Natural Sciences

The M.A. Moseley, Jr. Senior Chemistry Award – Tuyet Anh Nguyen

Established in 1980 in honor of Professor Emeritus Mr. M.A. Moseley, Jr., who taught chemistry at ��ӴӴ for 29 years. A plaque is on display in Withrow Hall, and each year the name of the senior winner of this award is added to the plaque.

The Paul J. Stacy Award in Biology – Sara-Michael Jann

Presented in honor of Professor Emeritus Mr. Paul J. Stacy, whose devotion to the teaching of biology and love of the students at ��ӴӴ spanned beyond three decades. The recipient’s name will be placed with others who have received the honor and displayed on a permanent plaque in the Department of Natural Sciences.

The Biochemistry Senior Award – Benjamin Rogers

Created to recognize academic excellence in a senior biochemistry major. This year’s recipient is the inaugural winner of this award. The recipient’s name will be placed on a permanent plaque on display in Withrow Hall.

The Les Brown Environmental Science Award – Timothy Campbell

Established in 2006 to honor Professor Emeritus Dr. Les M. Brown’s appreciation of nature, passion for teaching science, and involvement of students in research at GWU for nearly 40 years. The winner exhibits commitment to academic excellence and research in the area of environmental sciences.

The Stefka Eddins Undergraduate Research Award

The Stefka Eddins Undergraduate Research Award recognizes students in Natural Sciences who demonstrate a commitment to and excellence in undergraduate research by execution and completion of a collaborative student/faculty project.

Daniel Bennett
Taylor Sollie
Hannah White
Andrew Wilson

The Sherman Parrish First Year Chemistry Award – Bella Harding

Named after Professor Emeritus Dr. Sherman Parrish who taught Chemistry at ��ӴӴ for more than 30 years. It is given in recognition of outstanding achievement in General Chemistry, which, as a discipline, is comprehensive, demanding and exacting.

The Department of Mathematical and Computer Sciences

Mathematics Major Award – John Mark Watt

Presented to a senior who has excelled in the study of mathematics as a major and performed well in all academic work.

The Computer Science Major Award – Isaiah Echeverria

Awarded to a graduating senior Computer Science major who has excelled in the major and performed well in all academic work.

First Year Mathematics Achievement Award – Nicholas Reis

Success in a freshman level mathematics course is highly correlated to success in a wide range of studies. This award goes to a student who has demonstrated excellence in a freshman level mathematics course.

The Cybersecurity Major Award – Peyton Campbell

Awarded to a graduating senior majoring in Cybersecurity who has demonstrated excellence in the study of cybersecurity and has performed well in all academic work.

The J.O. Terrell History Award – Andrea Stampone

Established in 1974 to honor the late Dr. J.O. Terrell, former Dean of Instruction and Professor of History at ��ӴӴ, this award is presented to an outstanding student of history.

The Gil Blackburn Excellence in Western Civilization Award – Kami Beachey

Named for Dr. Gil Blackburn, who served as Professor of History and Vice President and Dean of Academic Affairs from 1968–2004, this award is given to an outstanding freshman or sophomore student in the Western Civilization courses.

The Sociology Award – Kelvin Agosto

Presented to a student who has shown academic excellence and integrity in their sociology studies.

The International Affairs Award – Bethany Durham

Presented to a student who has shown academic excellence, service and leadership in the pursuit of global understanding, as examined through the multidisciplinary work of international affairs.

The Political Science Award – Morgan Hardin

Presented to an outstanding senior in political science.

The Public Spiritedness and Service Award – Matthew Rowland

In the spirit of ��ӴӴ’s motto, For God and Humanity, each year the political science and international affairs major recognizes one of its students who has made an exceptional commitment to public-spiritedness and serving others.

The Department of Public Service

The Academic Excellence in Criminal Justice Award – Leiah Bivens

Recognizes a student for academic excellence in criminal justice administration.

The Academic Excellence in Homeland Security Award – Trevor Wilson

Recognizes a student for academic excellence in homeland security administration.

The Academic Excellence in Military Science Award – Banks Munn and Paul McElearney

Recognizes students for academic excellence in military science supervision of cadets.

The Academic Excellence in Human Services Award – Morgan Shew

Recognizes students for academic excellence in Human Services.

The Hambright Scholarship Award – Richard Protasewich and Kaleigh Huff

Recognizes students for academic excellence in the Department of Public Service in memory of Dr. Barry Hambright, GWU professor emeritus.

Department of Religious Studies

M. Van Murrell Academic Award – Brock Nikkari

Given in honor of Dr. M. Vann Murrell for his 27 years of outstanding service as a Professor of New Testament Studies and chair of the Department of Religious Studies and Philosophy. The award is presented to a graduating senior in the Department based on grades in all major courses, overall grade point average, and evidence of exceptional leadership in the future.

Biblical Studies Award – Brock Nikkari

Recognizes a graduating senior who has excelled in his or her achievement in the biblical studies major or concentration.

Jack Partain Missiology Award – Jacob Bryson and Serena Kohler

Given honor of Jack Partain, who served as a missionary for 16 years in Africa and 15 years at ��ӴӴ as a professor. His commitment to excellence in the classroom and his passion for the Missio Dei inspires us to recognize a graduating senior who performs well in the classroom and has a passion for the Mission of God.

The Department of Theatre Arts

The Excellence in Acting and Performance Award: Ava Jo Sullivan and Callie Keller

Presented for excellence in stage performance.

The Excellence in Technical Theatre Award – Rachel Nieminen and Isa Van Sintemaartensdijk

Recognizes superior achievement in technical production in theatre arts and significant contribution to theatrical production.

The Alpha Psi Omega Award for Excellence in Theatre Arts – Rachel Nieminen

Alpha Psi Omega is the National Honor Society for students of Theatre. This award recognizes superior achievement in academic study in the theatre arts and superior contribution to theatrical production.

Department of World Languages, Literature, and Cultures

The American Sign Language Award – Lydia Barrett

Given to a student who has demonstrated excellence in the field of American Sign Language.

The French Award – Morgan Barbery and Sofia Alvarez Gomez

Recognizes students who have demonstrated dedication to the French program and has earned excellent grades in French courses, embodying the desire to promote French-language learning.

The Spanish Award – Grace Snyder

Presented to a Spanish major or minor who has displayed superior aptitude and passion for the Spanish language and the literatures and cultures of the Spanish-speaking world.

The German Award – Savannah Shaw

Presented to a German major or minor who has displayed excellence and enthusiasm in their courses and in learning the German language.

The World Language Education Award – Ori Moon

Awarded to the world languages major minoring in professional education who has demonstrated excellence in teaching this K-12 specialty area. The student award winner exemplifies the qualities and dispositions sought in teaching world languages.

The Second Language Education Award – Isabella Turner

Presented to the student who has demonstrated clear excellence in teaching a second language.

��ӴӴ is North Carolina’s recognized leader in private, Christian higher education. A Carnegie-Classified Doctoral/Professional University, GWU is home to nine colleges and schools, more than 80 undergraduate and graduate majors, and a world-class faculty. Located on a beautiful 225-acre campus in Boiling Springs, N.C., ��ӴӴ prepares graduates to impact their chosen professions, equips them with the skills to advance the frontiers of knowledge, and inspires them to make a positive and lasting difference in the lives of others. Become More at .

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Nathaniel J. Evans Officially Inaugurated as ��ӴӴ’s 14th President

Office of University Communications — Fri, 24 Apr 2026 18:15:20 +0000

Investiture Ceremony Affirms Christ‑Centered Mission and Shared Vision for the University’s Future

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—��ӴӴ’s 14th president, Nathaniel J. Evans, was formally sworn into his office on April 24, 2026. The program was held at 10:15 a.m. in Lutz-Yelton Convocation Center. Board of Trustees Chair the Rev. Dr. M. Lamont Littlejohn Jr. presided over the investiture ceremony.

“Today, we gather as a community of faith, learning, and service,” Littlejohn stated. “We are confident that the leadership being installed today will continue to strengthen the legacy of ��ӴӴ—building upon the foundation laid by those who have served before, while guiding this institution toward new opportunities for growth, innovation, and impact.”

Evans officially took office at ��ӴӴ on Nov. 11, 2025, after a competitive national search led by Littlejohn. “It was my pleasure to serve as the chair of the Presidential Search Committee,” he reflected. “I am grateful to that committee for their hard work and dedication to the process of finding a new president to lead our beloved institution.”

Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Nicole Waters welcomed attendees and led the program. She introduced podium guests and recognized former ��ӴӴ presidents who were present for the ceremony: Dr. Christopher White, Dr. A. Frank Bonner and former Interim President Dr. Ben Leslie.

Vice President and University Chaplain for Christian Life and Service Dr. Josh Parrott offered the invocation. Dr. Aaron M. Rice, chair of the Department of Music, led the audience in singing the hymn: “Holy, Holy, Holy.” Interim dean of the M. Christopher White School of Divinity Dr. Jim McConnell said the closing prayer.

Greetings were offered by Student Body President Andrea Stampone, Faculty Chair Dr. Cal Robertson, Vice President for Athletics Brendan Fahey, Big South Conference Commissioner Sherika Montgomery, a GWU alumna, and North Carolina Independent Colleges and Universities President A. Hope Williams.

Evans began his inaugural address with a spirit of thanksgiving. “First, I want to thank my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ—not only for this opportunity—but for each of you, and for this institution, this mission field we call ��ӴӴ,” he reflected.

He also expressed appreciation for his wife, Brittany, his parents and friends, Littlejohn and members of the Board of Trustees, faculty, staff, and students. He thanked Executive Assistant to the President Stephanie Stearns and the inauguration steering committee for their leadership in planning the program and celebration.

“Today is not about a ceremony or speeches or any one person. It is about a chapter in a much larger and enduring story, built on the faith, the sacrifice, and the shoulders of those who came before us,” Evans affirmed. “And today, we are entrusted with carrying it forward. Gardner‑Webb is, and will remain, a Christ‑centered university. We will be focused in our priorities, disciplined in our decisions, and bold in our ambition.”

Evans also pointed to the University’s “Become More” vision as a guiding expression of its mission—calling students to grow in Christ, in knowledge, and in purpose. He emphasized that this shared purpose unites faculty, staff, students, alumni, and partners as “One Webb.”

“So, if you are looking for something to believe in, something to invest your time, your talent, and your trust in, bet on us. Bet on ��ӴӴ,” Evans emphasized. “This is our chapter to write. And I am honored to be with you as we write it—grounded in our mission, confident in our future, and committed to the work we are called to do together. The future of ��ӴӴ is bright, and I look forward to all that we will accomplish—together.”

As part of the ceremony, Evans was bestowed the President’s Medallion, which he will wear around his neck at commencements and other important ceremonial occasions. Littlejohn explained that its weight symbolizes the responsibility carried by all who serve in this role, while its design—a replica of the University Seal—represents the community the president serves.

Evans earned his bachelor’s in exercise sports science with a minor in biology from East Carolina University (ECU). He holds Master of Science degree in Human Resource Management from Western Carolina University.

Prior to his appointment as president at ��ӴӴ, he began his career in admissions at ECU before transitioning to advancement and serving as a major gifts officer for ECU’s Honors College. In 2020, Evans became ��ӴӴ’s vice president for Advancement. Before his career in higher education, Evans served as an officer in the U.S. Air Force.

His wife, Brittany, is a ��ӴӴ alumna and a visiting assistant professor in the College of Education.

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Bulldog Nation Raises Over $2.5 Million for Double Dawg Day 2026

Office of University Communications — Fri, 17 Apr 2026 18:36:12 +0000

More Than 1,300 Donors Support ��ӴӴ Students, Academics and Athletics

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—A shared sense of purpose and Bulldog energy fueled Double Dawg Day 2026 at Gardner‑Webb University, as alumni, parents, employees, students and friends rallied behind the institution’s mission. More than 1,300 contributed over $2.5 million to support scholarships, academics, athletics and campus initiatives.

The strong response on April 16 reflects the power of collective impact and the continued momentum of Double Dawg Day as it entered its 11th year. Donors came together from all over the United States and across the globe—extending from Austria to Venezuela. Gifts of all sizes made an immediate difference, including a transformative contribution that will fully renovate the athletic weight room, strengthening the University’s mission and expanding opportunities for its students now and for years to come.

“This year’s Double Dawg Day is a powerful reminder of what can happen when the ��ӴӴ community comes together with a shared sense of purpose,” emphasized GWU President Nate Evans. “As our once-a-year giving campaign, it continues to create a transformational impact across our campus, shaping the student experience in meaningful ways. Each gift represents a belief in our mission and an investment in our students, and we are deeply grateful to everyone who made this day possible.”

Participation remained a central focus of Double Dawg Day 2026. Friends of the University accounted for 43% of donors, followed by parents at 22%, alumni at 19%, and additional support from faculty, staff, and students.

“Double Dawg Day continues to demonstrate the extraordinary generosity of the Bulldog community,” noted Interim Vice President for Advancement Karen Bruce. “Each gift—no matter the size—is a powerful statement of belief in our kingdom mission and a meaningful investment in the future of ��ӴӴ and the students we serve. We are deeply grateful for the collective impact that is shaping lives today and for generations to come.”

Throughout the day, donors directed their gifts to a wide range of priorities, including the University Priority Fund, academic schools and colleges, scholarships, Athletics, the Bulldog Club, and campus programs and departments. A portion of the donations will be used to renovate a residence hall, make updates to the Football Center and Lutz-Yelton Convocation Center, and enhance the criminal justice program through the creation of a dedicated forensic lab space.

The success of Double Dawg Day 2026 was made possible by a campus‑wide effort, with students, faculty, staff, coaches, deans, alumni volunteers and ambassadors promoting the day and encouraging participation across digital platforms.

Kanisha Fowler, director of Annual Giving and Advancement Communications at Gardner‑Webb, emphasized the collective nature of the achievement and thanked the Bulldog community for rallying behind the University.

“The love and support for ��ӴӴ are on full display during Double Dawg Day,” Fowler praised. “This is the power of our community, coming together to achieve something meaningful. Today, we celebrate you—the men and women who make this community so special—through the stories you’ve told, the careers you’ve built, and the lives you continue to impact. We are grateful for every gift because each act of generosity moves us forward and makes a lasting difference. Thank you for giving to Double Dawg Day.”

Each gift made during Double Dawg Day has a lasting impact, helping fund scholarships that make a Gardner‑Webb education accessible, enhancing academic and experiential learning opportunities, supporting student‑athletes, and strengthening programs that prepare graduates to lead, serve and make a difference.

Gardner‑Webb University extends sincere gratitude to every donor, advocate and volunteer who made Double Dawg Day 2026 a success and helped move the institution forward.

Double Dawg Day Top Performer Spotlights

Alumni class – 2025 with 24 donors.
College – Health Sciences with 62 donors.
Athletic program – Wrestling with 377 donors.

View more details on the day’s gifts, matches and challenges .

��ӴӴ is North Carolina’s recognized leader in private, Christian higher education. A Carnegie-Classified Doctoral/Professional University, GWU is home to six professional schools, 14 academic departments, more than 80 undergraduate and graduate majors, and a world-class faculty. Located on a beautiful 225-acre campus in Boiling Springs, N.C., ��ӴӴ prepares graduates to impact their chosen professions, equips them with the skills to advance the frontiers of knowledge, and inspires them to make a positive and lasting difference in the lives of others. Become More at .

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��ӴӴ Communication, Art and Design Seniors to Showcase Work in Annual Portfolio Show

Office of University Communications — Wed, 15 Apr 2026 21:00:28 +0000

Reception and Walk‑Through Exhibit set for April 17 in Tucker Student Center’s Ali Pouryousefi Gallery

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—The ��ӴӴ Department of Communication, Art and Design will be celebrating its annual Senior Portfolio Show with a reception on April 17 in the Tucker Student Center. The event will be a walk-through style with works shown in the Ali Pouryousefi Memorial Art Gallery from 3-5 p.m. with light refreshments served.

“It is really exciting to see the diversity of what the seniors are showing this year, from websites to videos to photography to creative design and professional writing samples,” said Assistant Professor of Photography and Design Jessica Maloney. “It is really a great example of the variety of disciplines offered within the department.”

All majors and concentrations will be displaying posters of their work in the Gallery. The show will run from April 17 to May 8 for those who cannot attend the opening reception.

“I am so grateful to work with these seniors and so proud of all of them to be showing their unique works in our annual show,” said Professor of Communication Studies Dr. Lisa Luedeman.

The evening will feature works from students studying graphic design, public relations, photography, broadcast journalism, studio art and video/film. Students will display items they have created during their academic career, such as press releases, photographs, graphic design pieces, artwork, videos and more.

For more information regarding the 2026 Senior Portfolio Show or the Department of Communication, Art and Design, contact Luedeman at lluedeman@gardner-webb.edu or Maloney at jmaloney1@gardner-webb.edu.

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Gardner‑Webb University Orchestra Welcomes Legendary Artists Mark and Maggie O’Connor for a 250 Celebration of America

Office of University Communications — Wed, 15 Apr 2026 14:51:21 +0000

Grammy winning Artists Headline a Patriotic Program Celebrating American Composers, Veterans, and GWU’s New President Nate Evans

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Influenced early by American fiddle traditions and later shaped by classical and jazz training, Mark O’Connor’s music reflects the full scope of America’s musical heritage. On April 27 at 7 p.m. in Dover Theatre, his unique musical talent comes to Gardner‑Webb University as the GWU Orchestra presents “America at 250! A Celebration!” The concert features O’Connor and his wife, violinist Maggie O’Connor, whose performances blend classical training with American roots traditions.

“We will honor 250 years of America by performing music by American composers with an American soloist, Mark O’Connor,” said Dr. Patricia Sparti, conductor of the Gardner Webb University Orchestra. “He is the greatest jazz violinist, bluegrass fiddler and American musician of this generation. We will also honor veterans during the program.”

Tickets for “America at 250! A Celebration!” are $15 and free for all students and Gardner‑Webb faculty and staff.

Few living musicians embody the breadth, innovation and spirit of American music quite like Mark O’Connor. Grammy‑winning folk icon James Taylor once said of him, “There’s something about that guy’s touch. I think he is to music what Muhammad Ali is to boxing.” Yo‑Yo Ma echoed that sentiment, praising both O’Connor’s mastery and restless creativity: “Between thought and execution there are no impediments, zero. But what really interests me is that this is a person in constant development, hungry to develop.”

Mark and Maggie O’Connor playing at the Grand Ole Opry.

That hunger has shaped one of the most singular careers in American music history. A four‑time Grand Masters Champion, O’Connor was only 13 years old when he became the youngest person ever to win the Grand Master Fiddler Championships, an all‑ages competition. His record still stands atop more than four decades later. Additionally, he remains the only musician to have won national championships on fiddle, bluegrass guitar, and mandolin.

Also a three-time Grammy winner and eight-time CMA Artist of the Year, O’Connor is one of the most in‑demand session musicians in the country. He has recorded on more than 500 albums and collaborated with artists ranging from Dolly Parton and Paul Simon to Randy Travis and The Judds.

Yet O’Connor’s influence reaches far beyond the recording studio. Drawing equally from folk traditions, jazz and classical training, he has forged what many critics call a new American classical music. His works—including the bestselling “Appalachia Waltz,” co‑recorded with Yo‑Yo Ma and Edgar Meyer, and “The American Seasons”—are now staples of orchestral repertoires worldwide. His “Fiddle Concerto” remains the most‑performed modern violin concerto of the last 50 years.

Maggie and Mark O’Connor came to ��ӴӴ in 2024 for a Cleveland County Schools Orchestra day.

Maggie will share the stage with her husband. A violinist and vocalist, she is also a Grammy Award‑winning artist whose career bridges classical virtuosity and American roots music with rare ease. Trained at the Peabody Conservatory of Johns Hopkins University and the Aspen Music Festival and School, Maggie brings both technical command and expressive depth to every performance. Critics have praised her as “formidable” and “soulful,” noting her uncanny musical connection with her husband on stage.

Maggie has performed at the Grand Ole Opry, appeared at Carnegie Hall’s Zankel Hall, and collaborated with artists including Paul Simon, Béla Fleck, Wynton Marsalis and the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra. In addition to performing, she is an educator and co‑director of the O’Connor Method String Camps, helping shape the next generation of American string players. A visual artist as well, Maggie draws inspiration from the intersection of music, nature and imagination—an influence that resonates through her artistry.

The April 27 program reflects the sweeping story of American music, past and present. Highlights include the finale of Dvořák’s “New World Symphony,” Gershwin selections from “Porgy and Bess” (arranged by Robert Russell Bennett), Copland’s iconic “Hoedown from Rodeo,” and Elgar’s “Pomp and Circumstance No. 4,” performed in honor of Gardner‑Webb University’s new president, Nate Evans.

The program also features “Faith” from O’Connor’s groundbreaking “Improvised Violin Concerto,” with Mark O’Connor as soloist, as well as “Strings and Threads,” a piece he composed. Both Mark and Maggie will perform violin, guitar, and vocals on Mark’s arrangement of Stevie Wonder’s “Love’s in Need of Love Today.”

Together, the evening serves as both a tribute and a celebration—honoring America’s musical heritage while showcasing artists who continue to expand its possibilities.

Following the concert, Mark and Maggie O’Connor will sell CDs, DVDs, shirts and jewelry and will sign autographs and take photos with audience members.

Auxiliary aids will be made available to persons with disabilities upon request 10 working days prior to the event. Please call 704-406-4270 or email disabilityservices@gardner-webb.edu with your request.

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��ӴӴ Recognizes Sexual Assault Awareness Month in April

Office of University Communications — Tue, 31 Mar 2026 20:19:52 +0000

Campus Events Focus on Education, Advocacy, and Solidarity with Survivors

��ӴӴ’s Office of Student Development will recognize Sexual Assault Awareness Month throughout April with a series of educational programs and awareness events. For 25 years, Sexual Assault Awareness Month has united survivors, advocates, and communities in a shared commitment to ending sexual assault, abuse, and harassment through education, prevention, and support.

Vice President of Student Development and Dean of Students Lesley Villarose, who also serves as the University’s interim Title IX coordinator, emphasized the importance of intentionally observing the month and engaging the campus community in meaningful ways.

“Honoring Sexual Assault Awareness Month means choosing to see, to listen, and to act—because every voice matters, every story deserves dignity, and every community has a responsibility to create a culture of respect, consent, and accountability,” Villarose emphasized.

Building on this commitment, ��ӴӴ will host a variety of programs and initiatives this mont aimed at fostering awareness, education, and open dialogue around sexual violence, prevention efforts, and available campus resources.

Monthlong Book Display at Dover Library

��ӴӴ’s Dover Library will host a book display featuring books and educational resources focused on sexual violence awareness, prevention, consent, and survivor support. This collection is intended to encourage learning, reflection, and informed dialogue across the campus community. Students, faculty, and staff are invited to visit the display throughout the month to explore these important topics and access available resources.

April 1

Start By Believing Day – 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., front of the Caf, Dover Campus Center.

Held the first Wednesday in April, Start by Believing Day provides an opportunity for communities to unify with a single voice for survivors. “We hear you, we support you, and we will start by believing.”

April 8

Know Your IX: Title IX training session – 7 p.m., Faith Hall, Tucker Student Center.

April 9

Consent with Fries – 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., front of Tucker Student Center.

April 13

Know Your IX: Title IX training session – 8:15 a.m., Faith Hall, Tucker Student Center.

April 15

Know Your IX: Title IX training session – 2 p.m., Football Training Room

April 16

Wear Teal Day: Free Slushies – 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., front of Caf, Dover Campus Center.

Teal is the official color of Sexual Assault Awareness Month to represent prevention, healing, and solidarity with survivors. “T.E.A.L.” represents Togetherness, Empowerment, Advocacy, and Learning.

April 29

Wear Denim Day

Denim Day originated in response to a widely criticized Italian court decision in the 1990s that raised serious concerns about the treatment and rights of victims. Women in the Italian Parliament wore jeans in solidarity the following day, helping to spark a movement that is now recognized globally and supported by organizations such as Peace Over Violence.

Learn more about Title IX.

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Community Gathers at ��ӴӴ for Parade of Tables to Benefit Local Students in Need

Office of University Communications — Tue, 24 Mar 2026 14:26:49 +0000

Fundraiser Strengthens Support for the Little Bulldog Backpack Program, Serving 67 Children Each Week

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—One of the signature fundraisers for the Little Bulldog Backpack Program will be held at ��ӴӴ this spring. The annual Parade of Tables is April 18 in the Tucker Student Center, beginning with table viewing at 6 p.m. and followed by dinner and a program at 6:30 p.m. Volunteers decorate themed tables for eight guests, and tickets to the event support the organization’s mission to provide weekend meals for local children.

Hodges McCathern, a member of the Honors
Student Association, packs food for children.

The fundraiser supports the year-round work of the Little Bulldog Backpack Program, which provides weekly food bags for students at Springmore and Boiling Springs elementary schools. Each bag contains 15 to 18 items, including breakfast foods, lunch and dinner options, non-perishable fruit, and salty and sweet snacks. ��ӴӴ students, faculty and staff regularly lend support through packing food bags and contributing donations. Boiling Springs Baptist Church donates space for storage and for volunteers to pack the food each week.

This year’s event features tables designed by the Department of Physician Assistant Studies and the Hunt School of Nursing. Dr. Josh Parrott, Vice President and University Chaplain for Christian Life and Service, will serve as emcee, and entertainment will be provided by ��ӴӴ alumna Lindy Bryson. Dinner will be catered by Aramark. Tickets are $25 and may be purchased from Lou Ann Scates at 704-477-2455 or on campus from Debbie Hill, administrative assistant for the Department of English and World Languages, at dthill@gardner-webb.edu, 704-406-3035 or 704-406-4411.

The Parade of Tables was first held in 2017, when Lou Ann Scates, retired ��ӴӴ registrar, organized the event on the University’s campus. Paused during the COVID-19 pandemic, the fundraiser was revived in 2025 with Scates’ church, Boiling Springs Baptist, serving as host.

GWU Assistant Professor Dr. Mitch Porter helps with
the Little Bulldog Backpack Program every week.

The feeding program began in 2011, inspired by Scates’ visits to her son’s school for lunch. She often noticed children who wanted to buy extra food but lacked the money. “It’s hard to imagine a kindergartener or a fifth-grader going to bed hungry,” Scates reflected.

Scates shared her concern with biology faculty emerita Susan Manahan, and the two began pooling their resources. Working with the school’s social worker, they started buying food for 20 children every other week. Because Springmore’s mascot is the Little Bulldogs, the Little Bulldog Backpack Program quickly took shape as its own community organization.

Support grew as word spread across the ��ӴӴ campus and throughout the community. Today, the program is an established 501(c)(3) non-profit backed by local partners. “We have eight churches who help, and have received financial donations or food items from individuals, businesses, and Town of Boiling Springs officials,” Scates shared.

Now serving 67 children every week, the Little Bulldog Backpack Program continues to grow through volunteer support and community generosity. Together, local churches, volunteers, and members of the ��ӴӴ community continue to ensure that children in Boiling Springs and Springmore schools have the food they need each weekend.

To learn more or to support the Little Bulldog Backpack Program, contact littlebulldogbackpackprogramk5@gmail.com.

Assistant Professor of Physics and Director of the GWU Honors Program, Dr. Wilson Hawkins, center, and members of the Honors Student Association help pack food bags each week.

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Celebrating Women Who Lead: A Gardner Webb Women’s History Month Series

Office of University Communications — Tue, 24 Mar 2026 13:55:09 +0000

Provost & Vice President for Academic Affairs Nicole Waters Highlights the Influence of Mentors and the Importance of Women’s Leadership

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Women’s History Month honors the mothers, mentors, and history‑makers who shaped lives and opened doors for generations. At Gardner‑Webb University, that legacy continues through the women who lead across campus, including five members of the GWU president’s cabinet. Throughout the month, they will share their stories, reflecting on the opportunities women have today and those who guided them along the way.

Today’s column is by Provost & Vice President for Academic Affairs Nicole Waters.

Career highlights:

15 years in higher education: joined the faculty of the Hunt School of Nursing (HSON) at ��ӴӴ in 2011 and has served as a program chair, associate dean, and later served as its dean. She has also served as dean of the College of Health Sciences.
Doctor of Nursing Practice, ��ӴӴ-University.
Master of Science in Nursing, Western Carolina University.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing, ��ӴӴ.
Associate Degree of Nursing, Gaston College.
Diploma in Practical Nursing, Cleveland Community College.

Waters reflects on celebrating women’s history.

Women’s History Month is a meaningful time to celebrate the accomplishments and significant contributions of women. It offers an opportunity to reflect on the past, recognize the impact of women today, and inspire the generations who will lead the future.

Throughout my professional journey, I have been inspired and influenced by both women and men whose leadership, mentorship, and example have made a lasting impact on me. Dr. Sharon Starr (former dean, Hunt School of Nursing and associate provost for College of Health Sciences) provided a strong example of women’s leadership in action. Her guidance and example were both meaningful and influential during my time working with her.

Likewise, during the time I worked with Dr. Ben Leslie (former provost and executive vice president of Academic Affairs) he consistently supported and advocated for women leadership. He allowed an opportunity for women leaders on campus to be involved in a structured Women In Leadership (WIL) community. Because of his support in allowing this community of women leaders to meet regularly, the experiences had a lasting positive impact on me and provided an important network of encouragement, support, and shared learning.

I intentionally support other women by being present and accessible, building meaningful relationships, and engaging in individual conversations are important aspects of supporting and mentoring others. Being intentional about sharing knowledge and experiences creates opportunities for growth. We all learn from one another, and when we take the time to share and genuinely care, everyone benefits.

The one piece of advice I hope young women carry with them beyond ��ӴӴ is to be your authentic self, represent well, and be prepared to lead, influence, and co-create change. Never stop learning.

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Hart and Soul: ��ӴӴ’s Andrea Hartman Beat Cancer, Earned Starting Spot

Office of University Communications — Tue, 17 Mar 2026 19:46:55 +0000

With Support from Family, Coaches and Teammates, Lacrosse Defender Fought Her Way Onto the Field

Written By Beth Ann Mayer

Courtesy of

No one likes to learn they need a filling during a routine dentist appointment. But it’s not out-of-the-ordinary news.

Less than two months before leaving California for her freshman year at ��ӴӴ, where she was slated to play lacrosse, Andrea Hartman’s dental hygienist did, in fact, tell her she would need to have a cavity filled. But on three separate occasions, the hygienist also mentioned that Hartman’s thyroid was swollen. She advised her to get it checked out.

“I didn’t know anything about the thyroid,” Hartman said. “The only thing I knew was that my dog was having weight issues and that it was because her thyroid was not working. So, my initial reaction [was] not initial panic.”

But Hartman did want to get it checked out. She had no idea that a few months later, and at the age of 17, she’d learn that she had thyroid cancer. What Hartman did know was that she was no stranger to bumps in her athletic career. She spent her early childhood and school years in Maryland, where kids are basically handed out lacrosse sticks at birth.

Many of Hartman’s friends never put theirs down, but Hartman opted to start gymnastics. In middle school, she was diagnosed with osteochondritis in her elbow. The joint condition occurs when blood circulation is cut off from a bone (or, as Hartman said, “My bone died in my elbow”).

Hartman didn’t go back to gymnastics. Instead, she joined her friends in lacrosse. But her family decided to move to California during the pandemic. California is an emerging market for the sport, but it doesn’t have the same panache as Maryland. She made do, finding a high school with a solid program in Murrieta Mesa.

Still, Hartman didn’t get many Division I looks. Eventually, then-��ӴӴ head coach Kathleen Mirgon Crum’s name appeared in her inbox.

“I was like, ‘Oh my gosh, my first D-I email—this is so cool,” Hartman recalled.

Hartman and Crum spoke on the phone and texted back and forth. She visited the campus in November and attended a camp a few months later.

“It was ��ӴӴ from there,” Hartman said.

Before going to ��ӴӴ, Hartman had a cavity to fill, and she had items to pick up from an uncle’s house in Maryland. Another dental hygienist also flagged her swollen thyroid, so she saw an old family doctor there who ordered blood work. It came back clean.

But the bump was still there when she needed to get a physical upon arriving at school. She brought it up to the doctor, who encouraged her to come back in a few days to discuss it further.

“We decide that it’s worth it to get an ultrasound,” Hartman said. “At this point, it was so big, I guess that it wasn’t just a swollen thyroid. It was like, ‘There’s something there. There’s something like growing.’”

Was it a cyst? A nodule? Was it cancer? The ultrasound in September couldn’t say for sure, but Hartman’s care team could see that something was there. To learn more, she’d need to go for a biopsy. That step happened in October.

All the while, Hartman was participating in fall practices for the lacrosse program, now guided by head coach Chris Harris, who took over for Crum after she resigned in 2024. He liked what he saw of Hartman on film alone. “She was very responsive to everything, so I could tell that she was a mature young lady who was ready to roll,” Harris said.

Ready to roll on the lacrosse field? Sure. Ready to roll with what happened next? Not really. But to be fair, is anyone?

A week after the biopsy, Hartman got a notification that her lab results were ready, but she was unable to log in on her phone. She called the doctor’s office. “The secretary answers, and is like, ‘You need to come in and make an appointment. I can’t tell you anything about the results. You have to make an appointment,” Hartman said. “My mom and I hang up the phone, and we’re like, ‘We kind of know what this means.’”

The Hartmans were pretty sure that the secretary wouldn’t insist that they speak to the doctor in person if it wasn’t cancer. They were right. She was diagnosed with stage II papillary thyroid cancer. It was treatable with surgery, and she would not need chemotherapy.

And if there’s one thing that Megan Hartman, Andrea’s mom, knows all too well, it’s cancer. She herself has a BRCA2 gene mutation and had a preventative mastectomy. Her uncle had thyroid cancer later in his life. Other members of her family have gone through glaucoma, lung cancer and ovarian cancer, just to name a few. It was a diagnosis she had heard about so many times but never wanted for her own daughter, of course. “It was scary for a lot of reasons, but mostly because there’s such a high rate of cancer and so many different kinds of cancer in our family,” Megan Hartman said. “This is something she now has to deal with at 17. That was really concerning for us.”

It would be easy to say, “Put lacrosse on the back burner and focus on healing.” Yet there was a healthy amount of grief and angst over the cruel timing of Hartman learning of her diagnosis and the need for treatment right as she was getting her feet under her at school and in lacrosse, after an underdog’s journey to become a Runnin’ Bulldog in the first place.

“This moment collided with something she had worked toward for so long,” her mother said. “She worried about getting out of shape, letting her team down and watching her dreams slip away just as they felt within reach. This diagnosis came at a moment when she was just beginning to fully believe she belonged at this level, and that made the fear feel even heavier.”

The Runnin’ Bulldogs didn’t feel let down, though. So, Harris steadied her. Her team lifted her. “After I talked with her, I actually just sat down and just prayed about it, because it’s not an easy process,” Harris said. “But I wanted to make sure she knew that we were there for her and we were going to be with her every step of the way, no matter what the situation, whatever the results.”

Those words were a genuine promise that Harris and ��ӴӴ kept. “The team rallied around Andrea,” Megan Hartman said. “The coaches were so kind to her and flexible with her. The parents were absolutely amazing. We’ve been on teams for decades now, and I’ve never felt so supported by people who honestly didn’t even know us. They offered their homes for me to stay in so that I could be in North Carolina with her through all the appointments.”

Parents and players brought groceries so that Hartman and her mother were well fed. They sent gift cards and baskets and celebrated with her after the surgery, which conveniently and appropriately fell near her 18th birthday. But Hartman had a few months and a long road before she hit that milestone. And all the support was necessary. It took decisions and to-dos off the Hartmans’ plates, which were already overflowing with choices to make, appointments to attend, and information to process and act on quickly.

The first step was choosing a surgeon. They opted to work with a surgeon at Atrium Health Levine Cancer Proton & Advanced Radiation Center because of its proximity to campus. “It made the most sense to us to do that, but that was stressful,” Hartman said. “You’re picking your surgeon. Hopefully, they do the best.”

Then, there was a matter of scheduling the surgery, which required a referral and consultation. “I was feeling like, ‘It’s already been nearly six months. I want this out. It’s stage II. Let’s not make it stage III,” Hartman said. “My coach did a really good job of keeping me calm. He said, ‘Don’t worry. If it were, if it were this big of a rush, they would be rushing.’”

The goal wasn’t to minimize her understandable fears. It was to provide steady confidence and unwavering support.

The next steps took a hard pivot when Hartman’s surgeon offered her another choice. She could remove half her thyroid as planned or all of it to lower the risk of recurrence. “I was like, ‘Wow, another big decision,’” Hartman said.

A big decision complicated by some serious whiplash.

“The same day, we go into a different office, and we see the endocrinologist, who is the doctor who’s going to be with me for the rest of my life, and she said, ‘We recommend you get only half out, because there’s no need to get the other half out,’” Hartman said. “So, it was like, ‘OK, I have a surgeon telling me to get the full thing out. I have my doctor telling me to get half. This is just a lot.’”

In the end, Hartman opted to have her entire thyroid removed. The surgery was successful, but the first night was sleepless for Hartman and her mother as she struggled to maintain calcium and hormone levels, a common but scary side effect. “She was convulsing, and it was incredibly, incredibly scary for me as a parent,” Megan Hartman said. “[The staff] knew exactly how to take care of her. There were definitely points where I was really, really scared and uncomfortable with what was happening, but very confident in her medical team.”

The confidence was well placed. The doctors tested lymph nodes that would not have been removed if Hartman had opted for the less-comprehensive surgery, and they turned out to be cancerous, too.

She will complete preventative radioactive iodine treatment this summer, once the lacrosse season ends. Leaving the game that she’s come to love behind? Never an option. “Quitting lacrosse never crossed my mind,” Hartman said. “I think having to take six weeks off was difficult.”

But she’s grateful for the timing, which “only” included the last two weeks of fall ball. The other four weeks occurred during holiday and winter breaks, giving her time to work her way back.

But unlike an ACL injury, which typically takes around 18 months to fully return from, there’s not a blueprint for making a comeback from thyroid cancer. Perhaps surprisingly, though, it’s much shorter than an ACL tear recovery. The doctor suggested that she avoid heavy weightlifting for two weeks and progressively work her way back up after. They told her she’d likely be good to go after six weeks. Hartman wasn’t just good to go. She was ready.

“It made me realize how much I loved lacrosse,” Hartman said. “Fall ball is hard, so I was craving winter break. Then, I had that last little bit of fall ball taken away from me, and I was like, ‘The only thing I want to do right now is go back to being on the lacrosse field, practicing at 6 a.m. in the freezing cold weather.’ When Coach says, ‘Get on the line,’ I’m grateful to be on the line.”

Hartman’s gratitude isn’t all that’s grown. She has, too. “She truly had to grow up quickly,” her mother said. “She now manages much of her own medical care, communicates directly with doctors, tracks appointments and makes decisions about her body and recovery in a way most teenagers never have to. There were moments where she was forced to process uncertainty, timelines and decisions like an adult. That experience didn’t change who she is, but it deepened her sense of responsibility, self-advocacy and perspective.”

Hartman’s strength has poured out onto the field. In January, she played like she had a fall, free of doctor’s appointments, a cancer diagnosis and missed practice time. She was finally able to play freely. “When she came back, she was hitting the ground rolling,” Harris said. “We put her in, let her get a couple of reps, just to build her back into the play. Then, once she’d shown she could take on more responsibilities, we just put her in bigger situations, and she was able to handle them as well.”

And so, Hartman learned that she’d start on defense for the Runnin’ Bulldogs first game of the season against Austin Peay. She again earned a start at Campbell. “I was proud of myself for coming back in those first few practices of spring and doing well,” Hartman said. “I had worked hard over winter break to build back up to everything. It paid off. When I got to practice, I was doing well. [I started] our first scrimmage and was like, ‘It’s all working out. Everything is going to be OK.’”

Harris sees a bright future for Andrea as a Runnin’ Bulldog. “We’re excited about the way she’s going to grow for this year and years to come,” he said. “In the years to come, she’ll be one of the ones who could teach the freshmen, ‘This is what we do. This is how we go about doing things, and this is the way we play.’”

Hartman has certainly shown she can play through adversity with grace. But the starting spot wasn’t the best news Hartman and her family received recently, nor is it the only reason to believe her future is, in fact, bright. Given her family history and now her own history of cancer, Hartman decided to go for genetic testing to see if she had biomarkers for other cancers.

“She tested negative for every single genetic marker, for every single type of cancer in our family and every single type of cancer that they even have a genetic marker for,” her mother said. “She tested negative.”

Does it mean she’ll never receive another diagnosis? That no one can say. But cancer has less of a fighting chance without the markers. Hartman, on the other hand, has a fighting chance to make a name for herself and help turn around the program at ��ӴӴ.

USA Lacrosse Staff Writer Beth Ann Mayer is a Long Island-based writer. She joined USA Lacrosse in 2022 after freelancing for Inside Lacrosse for five years. She first began covering the game as a student at Syracuse.

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��ӴӴ Double Dawg Day 2026: Be Part of the Momentum

Office of University Communications — Fri, 13 Mar 2026 21:18:00 +0000

Kick Off the Next Decade of Impact by Joining the University’s 24‑hour Giving Celebration

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—After surpassing records in 2025, Gardner‑Webb University’s Office of Advancement is building momentum for the 11th annual Double Dawg Day. The 24-hour celebration of generosity and community kicks off its next decade of giving on April 16. Supporters are invited to make 2026 another milestone year for student scholarships, academics, and athletics.

The focus is on broad donor participation from alumni, faculty, staff, students, families, and friends. Every gift of any size is a vote of confidence in Gardner‑Webb’s mission and a tangible show of support for students.

“Your gift shapes our future,” noted Director of Annual Giving and Advancement Communications Kanisha Fowler. “With multiple areas to support, your impact reaches far and wide. This Double Dawg Day, we’re aiming for more—more partnerships among our community, more support for University priorities and more donors giving to their passions. We need you. Unite with us and give on April 16.”

Ways to Give on Double Dawg Day

Donors can direct their support to the people, programs, and causes that matter most, including:

University Priority Fund – Addresses the University’s most immediate and strategic needs.
Annual Fund – Supports student scholarships and the overall student experience.
School/College Priority Funds – Gives deans the flexibility to respond quickly to new opportunities and strengthen academic programs.
Athletics – Supports all 22 NCAA Division I teams.
Bulldog Club – Enhances student‑athlete scholarships and provides the tools athletes need to succeed on the field and in the classroom.
Campus Programs and Departments – Allows donors to support specific initiatives and areas of passion across campus.

Make your donation .

In addition to making a gift, supporters can sign up as Social Media Ambassadors (also known as advocates) to spread the word and build momentum throughout the day. Register and learn more .

With community involvement at its core, Double Dawg Day 2026 aims to unite as many donors as possible—because the real power of the day comes from participation. Whether someone gives, shares, encourages classmates, or cheers on a favorite department or team, their involvement fuels a transformative student experience at Gardner‑Webb.

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Community News Archives - ����ӴӴ

Students in the ����ӴӴ College of Arts and Sciences Recognized in Awards Ceremony