Advancement Archives - �۶�ֱ�� University

�۶�ֱ�� Receives $1.85 Million Transformative Gift

�۶�ֱ�� University — Tue, 02 Sep 2025 19:40:17 +0000

Donation Enhances Athletics, Residence Halls and �۶�ֱ��

�۶�ֱ�� University has received one of the largest single contributions in the last 25 years—an initial $1.75 million. Just one week later, the donors added an additional $100,000, bringing the total to $1.85 million. This generous donation will impact all areas of campus life.

“This transformative gift is a powerful affirmation of �۶�ֱ��’s mission and the life-changing impact this institution has on our students and their families,” said Interim President Nate Evans. “It reflects not only deep gratitude but also great vision, investing in our facilities, academic programs, and student life so that �۶�ֱ�� can continue to change lives. We are incredibly grateful for this generosity and inspired by the trust it places in our future.”

The $1.85 million gift is funding a series of athletic, residential and academic enhancements—many of which are already completed or nearing completion. Over the summer, new turf was installed at Spangler Stadium, and the court in Paul Porter Arena has been replaced. A major renovation of Nanney Hall took place, along with updates to additional residence halls and apartments. The final portion of the gift is enhancing technology, equipment and computers for the Department of Communication, Art and Design.

The donors were motivated to give because they saw the positive impact that the GWU community—faculty, staff and students—had on their son’s Christian walk. “�۶�ֱ�� is a unique and rare gem in higher education,” they said. “The school has blessed our son in a variety of ways. GWU offered an environment where he could thrive and grow both professionally and spiritually. He was also instrumental in identifying certain areas that would benefit from our financial support, and we wanted to honor that as well.”

They felt strongly about directly supporting the �۶�ֱ�� mission and encourage others to financially support the University. “God has his hand on GWU and this is evident every time we set foot on campus,” the donors said. “God’s calling to support GWU was an easy ‘YES.’ We hope that other families with the capacity to give will experience the same calling.”

With their contribution to �۶�ֱ��, they wanted to bless the people who had become friends over the last four years. “Our son developed strong relationships with his peers, academic, administrative and coaching staffs,” the parents said. “We have developed meaningful relationships with some key administrators and have enjoyed our many visits to Shelby/Boiling Springs. We feel a real connection to GWU, and it’s all because of the people.”

Upgrades to Nanney and other residence halls will directly impact the daily lives of �۶�ֱ�� students, observed Vice President for Student Development and Dean of Students Lesley Villarose. “We are excited about the transformation this will bring,” Villarose said. “The investment in new residence hall furniture is more than just a physical upgrade—it is an investment in the comfort, well-being, and community experience of our students. These refreshed living spaces will enhance students’ ability to rest, study, and connect with others, helping to create a true home away from home.”

The turf and basketball court upgrades will provide a foundation to improve the student-athletes’ experience. Interim Vice President of Athletics Chuck Burch noted the previous football turf was installed in 2014. “Turf fields usually last eight to 10 years, so our field has held up well considering how much we have used it,” Burch noted. “Replacing the turf and shock pad under the turf allows us to provide our student-athletes the safest environment possible.”

Additionally, Burch explained the need for a new arena court. The Runnin’ Bulldogs are playing on the same court surface since the Convocation Center opened in 1982. “After multiple sanding and refinishes, there were numerous dead spots throughout the court,” he stated.

The equipment for the Department of Communication, Art and Design will support numerous academic programs. Associate Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences Dr. Jennifer Buckner assessed the gift’s impact. “This lab provides industry-standard technology that will support photography, videography and digital designs in a tech-forward learning environment, preparing students for future careers,” Buckner said. “We are excited to see how this lab enhances department strengths, such as our sports and commercial photography or our student-produced films for the International Real to Reel Festival.”

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Community of Support

�۶�ֱ�� University — Tue, 10 Sep 2024 13:00:00 +0000

Meet Three Couples Who Give to �۶�ֱ�� Through Different Avenues

Many individuals come together to support �۶�ֱ�� University financially. These gifts—made by alumni, students, family, friends, faculty, and staff—come in all sizes, from all states and from around the world. They share a love and appreciation for the University and its mission to prepare graduates for lives of service and leadership. Their combined contributions help students follow their passions and create positive and lasting change in the region and beyond.

The following alumni and their spouses share their �۶�ֱ�� giving story.

Tom and Glenda Bell Consistent, Loyal Donors for Over 40 years

Tom and Glenda Bell’s loyalty to �۶�ֱ�� originates with Tom’s heartfelt gratitude for what the faculty and staff at GWU helped him accomplish. The couple has consistently given to �۶�ֱ�� for more than 40 years.

“While Glenda and I have been blessed, we are not to the point that we have the ability to write big checks, but we have the ability to be loyal, to write annual checks,” Tom shared. “It’s important to me that the money I’m giving gets to the direct help of the student, which is what �۶�ֱ�� is all about.”

A native of Suffolk, Va., Tom received an associate degree from �۶�ֱ�� in 1966 when the University was a junior college. He returned in 1970 and was a member of the first class (1971) to receive bachelor’s degrees from GWU.

Tom received financial help from the University that included a partial tennis scholarship and work as a resident director and a secretary. He majored in social science, economics and history and felt welcomed by the faculty and staff. “They didn’t give it to you at �۶�ֱ��, but they provided you the opportunity to learn and grow as an individual,” Tom stated.

The Bells live in Atlanta, Ga., where he moved in 1971 to take a job with a trucking company. He met Glenda through mutual friends, nearly 50 years ago. In 1982, he opened his own trucking/warehousing business and retired in 2012.

Tom reconnected with �۶�ֱ�� in the 1980s by serving on the Alumni Board. Also, he reconnected with some classmates, and they continue to meet yearly.

For over 20 years, he’s served as chairman of the Board of Advisors for Godbold School of Business. He’s a longtime member of the Bulldog Club, and he has also served as a GWU Trustee for nearly 35 years in total. “I have spent most of my business career trying to find a way to give back to the University in a small way,” Tom affirmed. “Giving money to �۶�ֱ�� is a privilege. It is an investment in our future, in the youth that are going to come behind. It solidifies the mission of what �۶�ֱ�� means to me.”

Wade and Kelly Miller Support Science Programs Through Planned Giving

Wade and Kelly Miller recently designated a generous gift to �۶�ֱ�� as part of their estate planning. This contribution will support GWU science programs. Wade, a 1987 alumnus who earned a Bachelor of Science in chemistry, developed skills at �۶�ֱ�� that formed the foundation for his nearly 20-year career at IBM.

“If I hadn’t gone to �۶�ֱ�� and had the experiences, the education, the life lessons, the relationships with the professors, the one-on-one, hands-on, and their prodding and pushing me in the right direction on occasion, I would never have gotten into the door for the first job,” Wade stated.

That job was to automate the crop science lab equipment at N.C. State University. Wade excelled in the position, built his knowledge of computer programming and received job offers from several companies. He chose to go to work at IBM and also opened his first business. He met Kelly at IBM, and they were married. Over the years, they started two other businesses.

They are both retired from IBM. Now, he manages wildlife for 17 ranches in Kerrville, Texas, where they live. “I was able to do all I have done in my life, because of what I accomplished at �۶�ֱ��,” Wade observed. “I want to give back to �۶�ֱ�� as a thank you.”

In recognition of their legacy gift, space in the Department of Natural Sciences will be named for the Millers.

Wade encourages others whose success began with lessons learned in the classrooms and labs at �۶�ֱ�� to help future students do the same. “It’s just the right thing to do,” he affirmed.

Brenda and Larry Watson Pledge to Mission Endowment Fund

Brenda, a 1974 alumna of �۶�ֱ��, and Larry Watson recently made a pledge to the Mission Endowment Fund to help underwrite mission trips for GWU students. This year 58 students participated in trips to Eswatini (formerly known as Swaziland), Kentucky, New Mexico and Guatemala. Through their giving, the Watsons will enable more students to go and work nationally and globally.

Brenda and Larry have a passion for mission work, supporting organizations and serving alongside missionaries in other countries. Sometimes the trips included their children, Carmen and Chrissy. Together, the family helped with construction projects or assisted in other ways.

Through their first-hand experiences, the Watsons know the powerful and life-changing impacts of serving on a mission trip. “You’re learning about other people, putting your faith in Christ to work,” Brenda shared. “We know how it changes you, and we want to give other people the opportunity.”

The couple’s decision to give to �۶�ֱ�� came from Brenda’s love and appreciation for the University, which was exactly what she needed as a first-generation college student. She majored in French and minored in psychology. As a member of a �۶�ֱ�� choral group called “A Gentle Way,” Brenda was given an opportunity to travel and minister through song.

She was introduced to �۶�ֱ�� by her pastor, a GWU alumnus, who suggested she attend. Brenda’s parent had died unexpectedly, and the family was still recovering from this traumatic event. “I think he knew that �۶�ֱ�� would be a nurturing place for me,” Brenda reflected. “And he knew our family’s commitment to Christ, and that �۶�ֱ�� would foster that for me.”

For more information about giving to �۶�ֱ��, contact the Office of Advancement at 704-406-4254.

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Marilyn Withrow Donates Gift to Purchase Chemistry and Microbiology Equipment

�۶�ֱ�� University — Thu, 05 Oct 2023 20:43:00 +0000

Advanced Microscopes and Instruments Improve Lab Research

Alumna Marilyn Withrow, ’71, made a generous gift to enhance the �۶�ֱ�� University chemistry and microbiology programs. This multi-year commitment provides advanced equipment and protects the investment by including funds for maintenance and upkeep.

Susan Manahan, assistant professor of biology, said the donation of 22 microscopes for the microbiology laboratory replaces all of the old microscopes and will greatly enhance the viewing experience of the students in lab activities. Students in Microbiology for the Health Sciences, General Microbiology, Genetics, Cell Biology, and Immunology will use the microscopes to focus on a variety of samples.

“In addition, we were able to purchase and equip a teaching microscope with a camera that will be connected to the new monitor to show students what to search for and focus on when viewing their own microscope slides,” Manahan explained. “With the software that comes with the camera, we will be able to take photographs of images on slides and even make short videos.”

The chemistry department acquired Thermo Scientific UV-Vis (ultraviolet-visible) Spectrophotometers, which identify the presence of chemical compounds and measure their concentration. Dr. Stefka Eddins, professor of chemistry, shared that the new equipment replaced two aging, soon-to-be-defunct, instruments.

The purchase allows the department to continue to meet the needs of students in classes, such as General Chemistry II, Analytical Chemistry I and II, Physical Chemistry I and II, Biochemistry, and Inorganic Chemistry. “These classes are taken by biology, chemistry, biochemistry, and exercise science majors,” Eddins offered.

Our hands-on approach to teaching our students how to use chemical instruments, including the two new spectrophotometers, sets us apart in that our students acquire real, hands-on, laboratory experience and are not just mere observers.
Dr. Stefka Eddins, professor of chemistry

In addition to the instruments, the department also purchased accessories for automated spectrophotometric analysis, as well as an explosion-proof refrigerator. These pieces of equipment will expand the ability to perform chemical analyses efficiently and store various reagents safely.

Marilyn and her husband, David, ’72, are longtime supporters of their alma mater, and Marilyn is a former trustee. When David passed away in 2020, the family established the David E. Withrow Endowed Athletic Scholarship to support student-athletes. In addition, David’s relatives supported the construction of the Withrow Science Building. This building was dedicated
in 1966 and named in honor of GWU trustee and benefactor, A.T. Withrow of Charlotte, N.C.

As students were introduced to the new microscopes, they were excited to see sharper images and smaller details of the microorganisms. One of those students is senior Helena Berczes, who is double majoring in biology with a concentration in biomedical sciences and American Sign Language with a minor in interpreting. A laboratory associate, who assists other students in the microbiology lab, Berczes expressed her thanks for the gift and explained how the donation affects everyone in the Department of Natural Sciences.

“I’m excited for people coming through the department to use the new equipment and be able to see everything so much more clearly,” Berczes noted. “Even the older scopes that we had on the (microbiology) side of the department, were moved over to general biology. I heard one of the professors say that those scopes are better than the ones they had, so actually it has benefited the entire department even if they are not using the brand new ones.”

Blake Henkel, a junior who is also majoring in biology with a concentration in biomedical sciences, admired the innovative features available on the new microscopes. He wants to be a dentist and said learning to recognize microorganisms prepares him for dental school. “Not only does it help us identify what we need to identify, but also to retain and recall what these organisms look like,” Henkel explained.

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The Great Outdoors

�۶�ֱ�� University — Tue, 15 Nov 2022 18:45:43 +0000

Longtime Supporters, David and Marie Brinkley, Provide Lead Gift for New Amphitheater Complex

A family that has enthusiastically supported �۶�ֱ�� for more than a decade is making another transformational gift to the University. David and Marie Brinkley are providing the lead gift for a new amphitheater, part of an Outdoor Performance Complex, which will be built at 206 South Main Street, Boiling Springs. �۶�ֱ�� purchased the 1.78-acre property, site of the former Hardee’s, in January 2021.

With the couple’s multi-year pledge, GWU began work on the project. In honor of their commitment and past generosity, the amphitheater will be named “The Brinkley Amphitheater.”

“I am profoundly grateful to David and Marie Brinkley for their kind and continued investment in the people and programs of �۶�ֱ�� University,” shared GWU President Dr. William Downs. “They are truly special people, and they are helping us turn some ambitious dreams into action. The Brinkley Amphitheater will enliven not just our campus but also our broader community. It will be a showcase venue for the performing arts. It will bring new energy to our great college town, and it will serve as a catalyst for year-round entertainment and engagement. A big, big win for our campus and for all of us who love this area.”

The first phase of the project will be to construct a 600-seat amphitheater, stage and courtyard. This event space will be home to the performing arts, a summer concert series, future Webbstock events, and speakers. The attractive place will also be an area where students can gather, read or study. The second phase involves the construction of a Main Street-facing building that will house both a campus shop and a nationally recognized eatery.

Artist rendering courtesy Holland & Hamrick Architects, P.A. Design is subject to change

The Brinkleys have two daughters, Kristie (’04) and Carrie (’06), who graduated from �۶�ֱ�� as student athletes. David, who serves on the GWU Board of Trustees, is a former high school football coach, and is retired from the Brinkley Financial Group investment firm.

When David saw Downs’ presentation on the proposed amphitheater, he went home and shared the details with Marie. As with all their decisions, they prayed about it and decided to join the effort. “We felt like this is a worthy project that will be used quite a bit at �۶�ֱ�� for a lot of different events and hopefully the community of Boiling Springs and all of Cleveland County,” Brinkley affirmed. “We felt like the amphitheater is going to be a good opportunity to bless a lot of people.”

Guided by their faith and a commitment to help improve the lives of children and young adults, the Brinkleys have supported academic programs; gave the lead gift for the Brinkley Softball Stadium in 2015; and most recently, provided the lead donation for the Marching Bulldog Band Uniforms.

Groundbreaking for the complex was scheduled for November 30th.

North Carolina Budget Allocates $500K for �۶�ֱ��, Boiling Springs Partnership

Funds Requested by Cleveland County Leaders to Help Construction of Outdoor Performance Complex

North Carolina’s General Assembly drafted the state’s fiscal year 2023 budget (signed into law by Governor Roy Cooper on July 11), and it included a $500,000 allocation that will accelerate �۶�ֱ�� University’s collaboration with the Town of Boiling Springs. Initiated by a proposal from Cleveland County Manager Brian Epley and endorsed by the County Board of Commissioners, the funding will help support construction and operations at the University’s planned outdoor performance complex.

Citing an economic study requested by County Commissioners, County Manager Brian Epley noted that public investment into projects like the outdoor performance complex enhance population growth and increase the workforce pool. “Cleveland County Government continues to support the efforts of our municipal and outside partners,” Epley related. “The complex will offer many exciting opportunities and add significant value to our community.”

Under �۶�ֱ�� President William Downs, the University adopted a five-year Strategic Plan in 2020, which included a commitment to aggressively pursue grants from various external sources, including state and federal government. Since that time, �۶�ֱ�� has received numerous awards for academic enhancement and building improvements across campus. The new grant from the state of North Carolina will help �۶�ֱ��’s aspirations to expand the performing and cultural arts, not just to benefit students but also for current and future residents from across the region. �۶�ֱ�� and the Town of Boiling Springs already succeeded in launching the inaugural WebbStock music festival in April 2022; with funding support from private donors and now the State, the two partners can grow opportunities for concerts, commercial activities, and dining.

“This is an outstanding example of forward-thinking public-private partnership, a true win-win for our campus and for our community,” praised Downs. “I am especially grateful to Cleveland County Manager Brian Epley and to all the members of the Board of Commissioners for spearheading the proposal that led to generous state funding. With the support of our elected representatives (Senator Ted Alexander, Representative Kelly Hastings, Speaker of the House Tim Moore), we will help bring new energy and new attractions to Boiling Springs. I look forward to working with Town Manager Justin Longino to ensure that �۶�ֱ�� University continues to build momentum as a catalyst for smart growth in this place we love to call our home.”

As the complex grows, �۶�ֱ�� University and the Town of Boiling Springs should see an increase in what both Downs and Epley deem “cultural capital,” raising the quality of community life and helping to attract families and businesses to the area.

Longino said the town lobbied for the project with legislators, and everyone on the staff is excited to begin the work with �۶�ֱ��. “We are ecstatic that this vision is being brought to reality,” Longino affirmed. “It will be a focal point for the region and complement our transformative Downtown Master Plan and help bring even more changes to Boiling Springs. It’s another great partnership for all involved and a testament to how committed �۶�ֱ��, Cleveland County, and the state of North Carolina are to our town.”

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�۶�ֱ�� Selects New Vice President for Advancement

Office of University Communications — Wed, 18 Nov 2020 07:25:50 +0000

Nate Evans Excited to Connect with Alumni
and Campus Community

Officials at �۶�ֱ�� University selected Nathaniel “Nate” J. Evans, of Greenville, N.C., as vice president of Advancement. A member of the senior staff, Evans manages the offices of alumni relations, major gifts, the Bulldog Club, and the annual fund. Most recently, Evans served as senior advancement officer at East Carolina University (ECU) in Greenville.

“Nate Evans injects a new level of energy, determination, and skill to fundraising and external relations at GWU,” praised University President Dr. William Downs. “I worked with Nate at ECU during my time there as dean, and I have great confidence in his ability to organize a strong team, to map out a data-driven strategy, and to persist until he reaches or exceeds his goals. Nate brings professionalism and a compelling personality that Runnin’ Bulldogs everywhere will appreciate.”

Evans began his higher education career as an admissions counselor for ECU Undergraduate Admissions. After several years in this position, he transitioned to university advancement working as a major gifts officer on behalf of the ECU Honors College. His role soon transitioned to a regional officer where he diligently worked to engage alumni throughout the region and country to include North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, Texas and Colorado. Evans’ efforts led him into a senior advancement officer role where his responsibilities continued to expand.

“I am honored to have the opportunity, and I am excited to join the team that serves the �۶�ֱ�� community,” Evans shared. “As a student and later as a fundraiser, I’ve seen firsthand the impact that philanthropy can have for not only students but the rest of the campus community. I am grateful for the chance to help the Runnin’ Bulldogs continue a legacy of success. I am looking forward to connecting with alumni, the staff, and students as we all work together to write �۶�ֱ��’s next chapter. I can’t wait to get started. Go Dawgs!”

During his time in university advancement, Evans helped to raise more than $5.6 million. In addition to securing major gifts, his responsibilities included assisting donors with charitable estate planning and working with community-based programs. More importantly, Evans helped to connect and re-engage hundreds of alumni, who were able to give back and support the university through generous gifts of time, talent, and treasure.

Before his higher education career, Evans served in the U.S. Air Force and later in the small business sector. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in exercise and sports science with a minor in biology from ECU along with a Master of Science in human resource management from Western Carolina University (Cullowhee, N.C.).

Evans and his wife Brittany are members of Eastern Pines Church in Greenville. He has also served with Brothers First Motorcycle Ministry and was the head coach for a middle school wrestling team.

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