President William Downs Speeches

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  2022 Fall Academic Convocation

  William M. Downs

  Good morning, everyone. It is really, really good to see you all.

  I’m excited that we are here. I’m grateful that we are together. I hope you had a good first week of classes, and I hope you’re ready for a strong and successful semester.

  Ladies and gentlemen, I am eager to see all that we can accomplish during the academic year ahead, and I just want to spend a few minutes this morning encouraging you to make the most of the opportunities that await you.

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  2021 Fall Academic Convocation

  William M. Downs

  Faculty and Students of Gardner-Webb University, you really are a wonderful sight for sore eyes!

  We didn’t get to do this last year. But today, thanks to the grace and glory of God, we are together again in this special place, celebrating the start of a new academic year. And, I for one, am extremely grateful.

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  2019 Fall Convocation

  William M. Downs

  I want to begin my brief remarks by congratulating Professor Moser for his well-deserved recognition as an outstanding teacher. Following an award-winning instructor allows me the opportunity to highlight what I think is one of our greatest points of pride here at Gardner-Webb University…and that’s the fact that we have world-class faculty.

  Now, in the interest of full disclosure, I have only been here less than two months. But the more I learn about Gardner-Webb, the more I like about Gardner-Webb. And I really, really like that we have such dedicated, innovative, and inspirational teachers.

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  President's Address at Dimensions

  William M. Downs

  Thanks for letting me join you…this is a large and impressive group. I’m glad to see you all. I hope you’re doing well and that the semester is off to a fast start. I also hope that you’re ready for some football…tonight, Charlotte, Richardson Stadium, 7:30, be there and be loud. If we have any members of the football team here this morning, please stand and let us show our appreciation. Our thoughts and prayers will be with all of our players and coaches as they represent us in competition tonight.

  But, first, and more importantly, Dimensions. You know that like many of you, I’m new here…so this is my first exposure to Dimensions at Gardner-Webb.