Gardner-Webb NewsCenter Archive

This is the archive for Gardner-Webb's Newscenter, which is your source for updates and events happening on campus, as well as interesting stories about GWU students, faculty/staff and alumni. You'll also find stories about academic accomplishments and community service projects.

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Alumna Majored in Theatre and World Religions to Prepare for Ministry

Office of University Communications

At Gardner-Webb University, alumna Bekah Rhea tailored her education to her interests and goals. “I was originally only going to have one major, world religions. I decided that would be best as I pursued a career in cross-cultural ministry,” Rhea offered.
Gardner-Webb and Blue Ridge Community College Sign Articulation Agreement

Office of University Communications

Blue Ridge Community College President Laura B. Leatherwood joined with Gardner-Webb University Interim President Dr. Ben Leslie to sign an articulation agreement designed to provide a clear pathway for students who want to earn an associate degree in accounting, early childhood, business administration, information technology, or criminal justice at Blue Ridge and then move on to work toward their bachelor’s degrees at GWU in related fields. “By following the course of study outlined in the articulation agreements, students can easily see how their course work will transfer, how it will apply to their bachelor’s degree program, and what courses they will have remaining to complete their bachelor’s degree,” Dean for Business and Service Careers Brenda Blackburn said. “Blue Ridge students can gain valuable workplace training with their associate degree here, as well as fulfill their aspirations for a bachelor’s degree, by following these transfer pathways.”
GWU Alumna’s Research Could Save Thousands of Lives

Office of University Communications

In her classes at Gardner-Webb University, Kaylan Kelsey explored her interests in chemistry, discovering the properties of matter and chemical reactions. After graduating in 2018 with a major in chemistry and minor in mathematics, Kelsey is using her research skills to improve early detection of ovarian cancer, a disease that kills over 13,000 women a year. “I am fortunate to be in a research group I am passionate about, and one that resonates highly with me,” observed Kelsey, a native of Warner Robins, Ga.
Gardner-Webb and Southeastern Community College (SCC) partner with TAP program

Office of University Communications

Southeastern Community College (SCC) and Gardner-Webb University recently entered into a memorandum of understanding called the Transfer Admission Promise (TAP). Under the agreement, SCC graduates who complete Associate in Arts, Associate in Science, Associate in Applied Science or Associate in General Education degrees will be guaranteed admission to GWU. “There’s no reason that transition from a North Carolina Community College to a 4-year institution shouldn’t be a seamless and painless process for the student,” according to Ben Leslie, interim president of GWU.
GWU Chemistry Professors Gave Alumna Confidence to Pursue Graduate Studies

Office of University Communications

After attending a larger college for a year, Makenzie Reynolds ’18 transferred to Gardner-Webb University because of the smaller school setting. “I thought back to a visit I had at GWU when I was in high school,” reflected Reynolds, a native of Forest City, N.C. “I knew I would get one-on-one communication with my professors at GWU.”
Carolina Crown Invites Community to View Run-Through Practice

Office of University Communications

Carolina Crown’s final run-through practice of its 2019 show will be held on Saturday, June 15, at 8:30 p.m. in Spangler Stadium at Gardner-Webb University. The community is welcome to attend the free event. The drum and bugle corps, which includes some of the world’s best young musicians, spends several weeks at Gardner-Webb each spring rehearsing its show in preparation of its annual tours and competition in the Drum Corps International World Championships.
Medical Mission Team From Gardner-Webb University Cares for Refugees in Thailand

Office of University Communications

A 12-member team from Gardner-Webb University served on a medical mission trip to Thailand from May 13-23. Led by Dr. Nicole Waters, interim associate provost of the College of Health Sciences, associate professor and dean of the Hunt School of Nursing, and Dr. Candice Rome, associate professor of nursing, the group included six nursing majors, two exercise science majors and two biology majors. Working with missionaries, team members provided basic health care in Thailand to approximately 300 refugees of all ages, from multiple countries.
GWU Executive Leadership Studies Program Ignites Educator’s Passion to Serve

Office of University Communications

While completing her Master of Arts in Executive Leadership Studies (MELS) from Gardner-Webb University, Heather Walker White was recognized as a leader by her school district and the South Carolina Department of Education. The Mooresboro, N.C., resident was chosen to serve on the state’s Performance Level Descriptor Committee for the End of Course assessment for English II. White, a 2019 and 2002 GWU graduate, was recommended for the position by the Cherokee County (S.C.) School District.
Gardner-Webb Team Partners with Christian Ministry in Slovakia

Office of University Communications

While sharing their Christian faith at a children’s camp in Bratislava, Slovakia, a team of eight from Gardner-Webb University also had an opportunity to introduce the fourth-graders to an American tradition. They roasted marshmallows and showed them how to make s’mores. The visit to the camp was one of the best experiences of the 12-day trip (May 13-24) for Makayla Fewster, a third-year GWU student.
Both Classmates and Professors Contributed to Gardner-Webb Alum’s Growth as a Minister

Office of University Communications

When Andrew Corley ’16 answered God’s call to ministry, he also sensed a responsibility to learn and develop his calling. While serving as a youth pastor, he chose to attend the School of Divinity at Gardner-Webb University. “I felt like having a degree would open up more opportunities in ministry, particularly as I got older,” he offered.
Ten Cleveland County Students Receive Scholarships from Joseph B. Freeman Jr. Education Fund

Office of University Communications

For more than 25 years, the Joseph B. Freeman Jr. Education Fund has assisted students in Cleveland County, N.C., in their pursuit of higher education. The 2019 winners were named on May 30, 2019, in a ceremony held in Tucker Student Center at Gardner-Webb University. A total of $20,000 in scholarships was provided to the 10 students, and five of them are planning to attend Gardner-Webb this fall.
Annual Program Honors Gardner-Webb Faculty and Staff

Office of University Communications

Gardner-Webb honored outstanding faculty and staff members recently during the University’s annual “Apples and Accolades” program. The 2019 Excellence in Teaching Award was presented to Dr. Bruce Moser, assistant professor of music. A former winner of the Faculty’s Rising Star Award, Moser is known for his exceptional skill in the classroom and his service to the University through multiple committees and as a champion of undergraduate research.
Supporters of Gardner-Webb University Break Records on #DoubleDawgDay

Office of University Communications

Officials at Gardner-Webb University are thanking supporters for their part in the record-breaking success of #DoubleDawgDay, the University’s annual day of giving to support student scholarships. More than 210 donors gave $227,484—exceeding last year’s total and more than doubling this year’s goal. Helping to increase the total was a $100,000 gift to establish the Allred-Decker Endowed Scholarship Fund.
GOAL Program Human Services Degree Realigned to Meet Needs of Profession

Office of University Communications

Gardner-Webb University’s GOAL—The Degree Completion Program has realigned the Bachelor of Science in Human Services to better equip students who want to serve their communities. Offered fully online, the program’s core curriculum will prepare students to take the Human Services Board Certified Practitioner exam if they choose, and it includes concentration options where students can explore their own areas of interest. Dr. Erin Cook, program coordinator and assistant professor in Human Services, spent a year refining the program and writing new courses.
GWU’s New Doctor of Nursing Practice Programs Earn Regional Accreditation Approval

Office of University Communications

The Hunt School of Nursing (HSON) at Gardner-Webb University is pleased to announce that its new Doctor of Nursing Practice programs have received accreditation approval from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). The entry level post baccalaureate Doctor of Nursing Practice programs for Family Nurse Practitioners (DNP-FNP) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners (DNP-PMHNP) are set to enroll the first cohort of students in August. The DNP-FNP will be a transition of the currently offered Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner (MSN-FNP) to a doctoral entry level program.
Gardner-Webb’s Chapter of Kappa Delta Pi Inducts 32 New Members

Office of University Communications

The School of Education and Kappa Delta Pi, International Honor Society in Education, are pleased to announce that 32 students have been inducted into its membership through the Alpha Epsilon Upsilon Chapter of Gardner-Webb University. The initiation ceremony took place recently in Blanton Auditorium on Gardner-Webb’s main campus. The Society invites and inducts only those individuals who have exhibited the ideals of scholarship, integrity in service, and commitment to excellence in teaching and its allied professions.
Association for Gravestone Studies to Meet at Gardner-Webb in June

Office of University Communications

The Association for Gravestone Studies (AGS), an international organization that promotes the study of gravestones from historical and artistic perspectives, will hold its annual conference at Gardner-Webb University June 25-30. The event includes lectures, an art exhibit, guided cemetery tours, slide presentations, exhibits, classes, and documentation and conservation workshops. Dr. June Hobbs, GWU professor of English, director of Undergraduate Research and the Fay Webb Gardner Endowed Chair of Student Success, is a member of the association.
N.C. State Senator Recognizes GWU Men’s Basketball Team for First NCAA Appearance

Office of University Communications

North Carolina State Senator Ted Alexander has submitted a Senatorial Statement to congratulate the Gardner-Webb University Men’s Basketball Team on its first appearance in the NCAA Tournament. “Winning the Big South Conference Men’s Basketball Championship was a milestone for Gardner-Webb University and going on to the NCAA Tournament was monumental,” noted Alexander. “Recognizing Gardner-Webb for this achievement is a tribute to the players, the coaches and the entire University and their accomplishments. I’m honored to be able to make this presentation to Gardner-Webb.”
GWU Graduate Receives Full Scholarship for Doctoral Program

Office of University Communications

A Gardner-Webb University graduating senior has been awarded a full scholarship and research funding to continue her studies in justice, law and criminology. Bethany Leap, of Sarasota, Fla., has been accepted into the doctoral program at American University in Washington, D.C. Leap received a Bachelor of Science in Global Studies with a focus on regional studies and a minor in political science on May 11, 2019.
Gardner-Webb University Awards Degrees During Commencement Exercises May 11

Office of University Communications

Gardner–Webb University hosted Spring Commencement on Saturday, May 11, in the Lutz-Yelton Convocation Center. More than 500 graduates were honored during two separate ceremonies. Green ribbons adorned the academic regalia of graduates and faculty, as well as the lapels of others in attendance.
Gardner-Webb Recognizes Students for Service and Leadership

Office of University Communications

Gardner-Webb University recently held a ceremony to recognize Student Leadership, Service, and Volunteerism. Winners of these awards exemplify the University’s core values of faith, service and leadership in their classrooms and communities. In recognition of the award presentation, each student may choose one book for purchase by Gardner-Webb’s Dover Memorial Library. The book will be inscribed with the student’s name and the date of the award presentation.
Gardner-Webb University Recognizes Achievements of Undergraduate Students

Office of University Communications

Gardner-Webb University recently honored undergraduate students for academic excellence and outstanding service and leadership. Winners of these awards exemplify the University’s core values of faith, service and leadership in their classrooms and communities. In recognition of the award presentation, each student may choose one book for purchase by Gardner-Webb’s Dover Memorial Library.
Gardner-Webb Professor Emeritus Receives Marquis Recognition and Honor

Office of University Communications

Dr. Robert Earle Morgan, Gardner-Webb University professor emeritus of French and mathematics, has been presented the Albert Nelson Marquis Lifetime Achievement Award by Marquis Who’s Who. Morgan celebrates many years’ experience in his professional network, and has been noted for achievements, leadership qualities, and the credentials and successes he has accrued in his field. An expert in French grammar and culture as well as analytic geometry, algebra and trigonometry, Morgan was named a GWU professor emeritus in 1998.
Gardner-Webb Undergraduate Researcher Not Hindered by Sunburn or Bee Stings

Office of University Communications

Bee stings, beetles, sunburn and rainy weather—Gardner-Webb University senior McKenzi Sexton, of Hickory, N.C., encountered them all in her research of insect pollinators. Her experience, though, was an introduction to her prospective career. A biology major, Sexton wants to work in the field of conservation genetics, where genetic methods are used to prevent extinction of endangered species.
Gardner-Webb Honors Students Present Research at Regional Conference

Office of University Communications

Honors students from Gardner-Webb University recently traveled to Memphis, Tenn., to participate in the Southern Regional Honors Council (SRHC) Conference. The 47th annual meeting was hosted by Northwestern Louisiana State University (Natchitoches). The SRHC promotes and advances honors programs and honors colleges in the Southern United States and has over 100 member institutions.