Career Development Archives - �۶�ֱ�� University

�۶�ֱ�� and Pinnacle Classical Academy Launch College Readiness Partnership

Office of University Communications — Wed, 15 Oct 2025 21:32:03 +0000

New Program Through GWU’s Searight PACE Equips High School Students with Experiential Learning Experiences

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Representatives from Pinnacle Classical Academy in Shelby, N.C., and �۶�ֱ�� University met recently to establish a Skills Training Partnership Agreement. Offered through GWU’s Searight Professional and Continuing Education (PACE) Program, this five-week summer college readiness experience will strengthen Pinnacle high school students’ development of advanced analytical, critical-thinking and problem-solving skills.

Interim GWU President Nate Evans welcomed Pinnacle representatives to �۶�ֱ�� for the formal signing ceremony. “I’m excited to see the support here today,” Evans praised. “These partnerships are vital for �۶�ֱ��. It plugs us into the community with the incoming students we serve. To have these partnerships, to bring folks in to build those pathways early, ultimately that serves the region and the greater good. We’re proud to do that, and I just want to offer a sincere thank you to everyone who was involved in making this happen.”

Interim GWU President Nate Evans, center, welcomes and thanks the representatives from Pinnacle Classical Academy for establishing the partnership. On the left is Pinnacle Headmaster Angela Brooks and at right is Interim Dean of the College of Health Sciences Dr. Tracy Arnold.

Speaking on behalf of Pinnacle was former N.C. state Sen. Wes Westmoreland, a GWU alumnus, who is vice chair and a founding member of Pinnacle’s Board of Directors. He thanked the University for collaborating to provide the academic opportunity to Pinnacle students and recognized the efforts of Dr. Anthony Negbenebor, �۶�ֱ�� professor and assistant vice president for Business Development and Partnerships. “Dr. Negbenebor has been a friend, a teacher and advisor for many, many years,” Westmoreland shared. “Thank you for being the catalyst to bring this together. I graduated in ’88 and have served as a trustee here. I’m so very happy to have this relationship with �۶�ֱ��. We really appreciate the partnership, and we look forward to where this is going.”

N.C. state Sen. Wes Westmoreland, vice chair and a founding member
of Pinnacle’s Board of Directors, left, and Interim �۶�ֱ�� President
Nate Evans participate in signing the agreement.

Joining Westmoreland from Pinnacle were Dr. Pauline Cahill, a local dentist and also a founding board member; Chief Education Officer Dr. Shelly L. Shope, a GWU alumna; Headmaster Angela Brooks; and Dean of �۶�ֱ�� Jeff Ziegler. Pinnacle’s Board is chaired by former N.C. state Sen. Debbie Clary, who also helped found the public charter school in 2013.

Interim Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs Dr. Nicole Waters noted that career exploration begins with K–12 education, and the opportunities provided during the critical high school years greatly influence students’ educational journeys and future professional paths. “The Skills Training Partnership Agreement between �۶�ֱ�� University’s Searight Professional and Continuing Education Program and Pinnacle Classical Academy offers students the opportunity to engage in experiential learning, enhancing critical thinking and refining the academic skills necessary for college readiness,” she explained.

The partnership agreement initiates the Academic Skills Accelerated Program (ASAP) for Pinnacle students in 10th- through 12th-grade. Beginning in June 2026, �۶�ֱ�� will provide courses in AI, cybersecurity, project management, economics and personal finance, medical terminology, introduction to agriculture, and American history of inventors.

Interim Provost and Vice President of Academic
Affairs Dr. Nicole Waters shares her thoughts
on the partnership.

Coupled with an emphasis on Christian business ethics and disciplinary concepts, the classes will offer students opportunities for reality-based and hands-on learning. They will be mentored by the �۶�ֱ�� faculty and participate in networking with corporate CEOs from regional, national and international companies. Business etiquette and professional skills will be emphasized. The program concludes with a field-study tour of the BMW automotive plant in Greer, S.C.

Waters concluded, “We are honored to have the opportunity to support the high school students participating in this initiative. This partnership builds on the current foundation of PCA’s academics, strengthening the primary commitment of meeting the needs of our community.”

The ASAP program is scheduled for June 9 through July 9, 2026. For more information, visit the Searight Pace or email pace@gardner-webb.edu.

�۶�ֱ�� University 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., �۶�ֱ�� 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. Learn more at .

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�۶�ֱ�� College of Health Sciences and Community Partners Introduce High School Students to Healthcare Careers

Office of University Communications — Mon, 14 Jul 2025 13:34:47 +0000

Summer Bridge Program Made Possible at No Cost to Students with Funds from Golden LEAF Foundation

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Caroline Sparrow is a rising 11th-grader at Kings Mountain High School. She has an interest in anesthesiology and wanted to find out if that’s the right career path for her. The new Summer Bridge program held recently at �۶�ֱ�� University gave her a hands-on introduction to anesthesiology along with various other healthcare professions.

Sparrow, with the help of Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist Kaitlin Benedict from Atrium Health Cleveland, intubated a mannequin and was amazed by the realistic procedure. Her friend, Tristian Ballard, also a rising 11th-grader at Kings Mountain High School, was excited to perform the intubation as well. Motivated by his mother’s determination and success, Ballard has already decided that he wants to be a nurse.

Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist Kaitlin Benedict from Atrium Health Cleveland, center, talks to Caroline Sparrow, left, and Tristian Ballard, right, about how to intubate a patient for anesthesia.

“I saw her go to school later in her life,” he offered. “She wanted to be a nurse when she was a lot younger, but she never got the chance. She went back recently, and I saw her do that and learned a little bit about it and she was a big inspiration to me.”

The intubation activity was part of a career fair, where the students rotated to different stations to learn about several types of health professions. Sparrow and Ballard also practiced surgical techniques using a simulator provided by Cleveland Community College Surgical Technology Program. They participated in other learning experiences during the week and received third-party credentialing in CPR and Stop the Bleed, making them more prepared to advance in their education and careers.

The immersive experience was offered two separate weeks and welcomed a total of 26 students. It was made possible by funding from the Golden LEAF Foundation Community-Based Grants Initiative. �۶�ֱ�� collaborated with community partners, Cleveland Community College (CCC) and Cleveland County Schools to secure a total of over $1.2 million to offer the camp for high schoolers as part of a Healthcare Educational Pathway. Leaders from all three entities presented separate proposals to form this plan to address regional health workforce shortages, particularly in nursing and allied health professions. (Read more about the award here.)

Representatives from the Cleveland Community College Radiography
program talk to students about their profession.

Associate Professor of Nursing Dr. Jessica Ivey and Assistant Professor of Nursing Dr. Angel Queen coordinated the Summer Bridge program and were enthused about the inquisitive and interested students who attended. “We’ve worked really hard the past couple months to prepare a curriculum for these students over the last four days,” Ivey observed. “They are loving it. We have introduced students to a variety of different healthcare professions—pharmacy, nursing, physical therapy—and we’re hoping that this will help them make decisions and continue to stay here in Cleveland County and have a career. We are excited, and we’re excited to do this again next year.”

Queen further addressed the goals of the program and the importance of exposing young people to opportunities in their hometowns. “There’s so much that Cleveland County offers with them being able to do a lot of studying in high school,” she asserted. “Exposing them early to how they can get their associate degree or get their bachelor’s degree and even move up to master’s or doctoral programs helps them set those short-term and long-term goals, and how to achieve those. A lot of times, you just have to plant that seed. And then, you have all of us that help support and water and help that grow into whatever they decide to be when they grow up. We need different providers in different areas and different specialties, and so it’s so important that we foster these young students, and we expose them to all the different avenues that they can do.”

Sparrow and Ballard said they appreciated all the opportunities the week provided, including staying in a residence hall on �۶�ֱ��’s campus. “It’s actually good because I feel like it pushes me to want to do more for my own education,” Sparrow shared. “It’s really special because we didn’t have to pay for any of this.”

Ballard added, “I enjoyed the campus the most. It’s a beautiful campus. I learned a lot about being a nurse, and what type of nurses there are and what I have to do to become a nurse.”

Note to our readers: This article reflects the University’s tuition and fee schedule at the time of publication. Tuition and financial aid policies change annually. For the most up-to-date and accurate information on current tuition rates and financial aid resources, please visit the University’s official Admissions page.

About The Golden LEAF Foundation

Golden LEAF was created to receive 50 percent of the annual payments made by cigarette manufacturers to North Carolina under the historic 1999 Master Settlement Agreement that included 46 states. LEAF stands for Long-Term Economic Advancement Foundation. The endowment has funded hundreds of millions of dollars in grants and scholarships to support its mission to increase economic opportunity in North Carolina’s rural and tobacco-dependent communities. Read more .

About �۶�ֱ�� University

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�۶�ֱ�� 2013 Alumna Shebra Hughes: ‘Waffle House is a Hidden Gem’

Office of University Communications — Tue, 20 May 2025 12:54:52 +0000

Senior Vice President Manages 81 Locations; Values Company’s Family Atmosphere

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Shebra Hughes, a 2013 alumna of �۶�ֱ�� University, and her husband Tommy love visiting campus. They reminisce about when she was a student and they were dating, but also enjoy representing the company they work for: Waffle House. A senior vice president, Shebra manages 81 locations in North Carolina from Greensboro to Cherokee.

She is familiar with the misconceptions about the 24-hour restaurant. Even the Waffle House table at the GWU Career and Internship Fair featured a sign with this statement: “The dream job you never dreamed of.”

Her degree in criminal justice from �۶�ֱ�� developed skills that help her succeed in management. The concepts she learned in finance, security, and communication have been especially beneficial. Also, she was willing to travel. “From the beginning, I told them that I would move wherever they needed me to,” Shebra reflected. “I was essentially betting on myself, and I knew that I could do it, and I could move up quickly and progress, and that’s what I did.”

She added, “I don’t think anyone at Waffle House graduated from college and their first thought was, ‘Oh, I think I’ll go to work at Waffle House,’ but don’t judge a book by its cover. It is truly a hidden gem, a family business where they take care of their people and live up to what they say they’re going to do. I absolutely love it.”

From left, Tommy and Shebra Hughes, and Orville Jarrett, talk to a student
at the GWU Spring Career and Internship Fair.

Waffle House wasn’t her first choice either. After graduating with a degree in criminal justice, Shebra’s plan was to get a job in a lawyer’s office and eventually go to law school. She went to interviews but didn’t get hired. “So, I started reaching out and doing other interviews at multiple locations to see if I could just get some interview practice,” Shebra shared. “And, Waffle House was one of them. I interviewed for a manager training position.”

When the job recruiter explained how well Waffle House takes care of their employees, she decided to accept the offer. “They have an amazing homegrown leadership program where you start at the bottom, and work your way up,” Shebra asserted. Manager trainees participate in a three- to four-month training program where they learn everything they need to know to run the business. They experience all aspects of the restaurant, from serving and cooking to breaking down general ledgers.

She went home and told Tommy that she was going to work for Waffle House, and he was skeptical at first. However, after seeing the benefits offered by the company. Tommy came on board two months later.

Their first jobs were in Hickory, N.C. Over the past 11 years, they moved to Asheville, N.C., Nashville, Tenn., and Fayetteville, Arkansas. Three years ago, while Tommy was deployed with the Army, Waffle House offered her the senior vice president job in Charlotte. She and the couple’s two daughters moved back to North Carolina, which was also closer to her home in Maiden, N.C.

Tommy is the director of recruiting, and Shebra travels to the Waffle House units under her management. She plays a pivotal role in site evaluations, ensuring each location is positioned for success, and is instrumental in cultivating an environment that encourages growth and innovation. “As a senior vice president, I am responsible for leading the strategic direction and operational performance of our organization, encompassing 81 locations,” she described. “My leadership role demands a visionary strategist who can align organizational initiatives with long-term goals and foster development within the management team.”

Shebra and Tommy dated while she was a student at �۶�ֱ��. He was in the Army National Guard and had just returned from his first deployment to Iraq. She chose to attend GWU because of high school friends who went there, the excellent reputation of the professors and academic programs, and the beautiful campus. Tommy had other friends at GWU and on most weekends, came to spend time with her and them. “We just love being back on the �۶�ֱ�� campus,” Shebra affirmed, noting that Waffle House has recruited promising associates from the University. “Everyone is just so welcoming and friendly; it’s always nice to be here.”

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�۶�ֱ��’s Godbold College of Business Connects Students to Professionals

Office of University Communications — Fri, 16 Feb 2024 14:29:44 +0000

Wednesday Experiential Learning (WEL) Days Feature Entrepreneurs and Business Leaders

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—At least once a week, students in the Godbold College of Business have an opportunity to see how the concepts they study in the classroom apply to entrepreneurs, managers and others in business. Wednesday Experiential Learning (WEL) days started two years ago with input from Dr. Mischia Taylor, dean and assistant professor in the College of Business, and Micah Martin, director of the Center for Personal and Professional Development.

GWU Career Coach Blake Elizalde, explained the goal of WEL days is to give students a look into what goes into starting and managing a business. “Experiential Learning Days are great opportunities for students to meet a variety of business professionals to grow their network,” he noted.

Elizalde, a GWU alumnus, joined the staff in July after graduating in May 2023. While a student, he served as Student Body President, Student Recruitment Ambassador, Resident Advisor, and Marketing Coordinator for dining services on campus.

“These professionals share some insight into their respective careers and share a little bit about how they got to be where they are today,” added Elizalde. “A lot of students do not know what they want to do when they get out of college, and that’s OK. Attending these WEL Days and listening to these speakers can peak student’s career interest and help answer that ‘what do you want to be when you grow up?’ question.”

In addition to bringing guests on campus, Elizalde is offering more trips to tour regional companies and attractions and hear from their representatives. Last semester, the students toured the Bank of America Stadium and made a trip to Greenville, S.C., to learn about employment opportunities. This semester, students have already been to the Spectrum Center and will be going to Asheville, N.C, to learn about the industries there.

Local entrepreneur, Tim Reen, visited in the 2023 Fall Semester and talked about his business, Firebeard Coffee Roasters. He started the company three years ago with 10 bags of coffee and now has a coffee trailer serving a variety from hot chocolate, espresso drinks, baked goods and more. He roasts 22 pounds of coffee at a time with coffees from Central/South America including the start of direct trade relationships with the growers.��

Reen has a bachelor’s degree in pastoral ministries and an advanced Master of Divinity. He started the business with a simple goal. “I realized that I could make my job be about sharing something that I loved with others,” he affirmed.

Caleb Cook

And his most important advice: “In all business and life dealings—in every step of the process, let every action you make be done as a steward of God’s provisions. As such be generous and intentional as you show God’s love in your work,” Reen stated. “As an entrepreneur—Pursue something that you love doing. Not just one aspect of the business, but the business as a whole. Without a love for what you are doing, you will not have the longevity or joy in the work.”

Senior Caleb Cook, of Hudson, N.C., is grateful for the opportunity to hear from entrepreneurs like Reen and professionals who emphasize the importance of soft skills, such as communication and problem solving. Cook also values the Career and Internship Fair, which is one of the WEL day offerings. “I have the ability to meet with people from a wide variety of companies, start to build a network, practice a brief pitch of myself along with my work experiences and goals, and to even obtain an internship,” offered Cook, an accounting major with a minor in finance. “Each company is looking to hire interns and full-time employees, which provides a great opportunity to find a job or at least learn about different companies.”

Madelyn Kampfe

Senior marketing major Madelyn Kampfe, of Lincoln, Neb., appreciates the information offered on WEL days. “We’ve had so many educational speakers and topics to help us further our careers,” she observed. “WEL days are really the professors and the staff at �۶�ֱ�� helping the students as much as they can. Whether that’s them bringing Micah Martin from the career center to talk, or bringing alumni back to discuss their careers after college, or even people looking to hire, everyone they bring in is extremely insightful.”

She considers the most important lessons she’s learned from the speakers are the values of networking and hard work. “Blake Elizalde said that 85% of jobs come from connections made,” Kampfe asserted. “I’ve also learned that you have to work for what you want in life and you can’t just wait for it to fall into your lap because that rarely, if ever, happens. I think there will be times in the future that I will remember tidbits that speakers said during WEL days. Knowing how to create a resume or cover letter or find jobs in the area is so helpful.”

WEL Day Schedule

Feb. 21 – A guest speaker from Northwestern Mutual, former Olympic athlete, will talk about wealth management and discuss internship opportunities as well as briefly share about his swimming career in the Olympics.
March 6 – Women’s leadership: empowering event.
March 20 – The Center for Personal and Professional Development will discuss skills in the workplace and how to succeed in preparation for a networking event and the career fair.
April 5 – Senior business students will practice their soft skills while participating in a networking event with potential employers.
April 10 – Career Fair. Representatives from local and regional businesses will be on campus to talk about employment opportunities.
April 17 – Asheville Day. Visiting the city and learning about opportunities there.
April 24 – Dawg Pitch. Students pitch their ideas for a business to a panel of judges.��

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GWU Senior and Alumnus Intern with Shelby, N.C., Podiatrists

Office of University Communications — Tue, 22 Aug 2023 18:25:09 +0000

Breanna Littlejohn, ’24, and Katherine Greene, ’23, Observe Surgeries and Learn Techniques

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Every semester, many faculty members at �۶�ֱ�� University ask professionals to visit their classes to highlight various career opportunities. One of the guests invited by instructor of biology Stacie Smith is Dr. Gretchen A. Lawrence, a podiatrist with Foothills Podiatry PA in Shelby, N.C.

When Breanna Littlejohn, ’24, heard Lawrence talk about podiatry, she was intrigued. An exercise science major, Littlejohn must complete 300 hours of summer learning as part of the program. She decided to intern with Lawrence and has spent time shadowing Lawrence and her partner, Dr. Ron Maskarinec, in the operating room and working at the clinic.

“Everything I learned at my internship was very valuable,” Littlejohn shared. “I valued being able to watch surgeries and working under Dr. Lawrence and Dr. Maskarinec. I learned a lot of valuable skills, such as interacting with patients, doing X-rays, suturing, using surgery tools, wrapping patients, and charting and documentation. They also educated me on the new medications that will help heal wounds on the foot, and I learned how to write prescriptions.”

Breanna Littlejohn poses with Dr. Gretchen A. Lawrence,
a podiatrist in Shelby, N.C.

Katherine Greene, who graduated in May 2023 from �۶�ֱ�� also spent time at the clinic learning more about podiatry. Greene and Littlejohn attended a national advocacy event with U.S. Senators Tom Tillis and Ted Budd, to name a few, to discuss problems affecting podiatrists and their patients and access to care in rural areas.

Greene and Littlejohn also had an opportunity to meet the American Podiatric Medical Association’s president and other podiatrists at a regional lecture in Charlotte. They were also featured in Podiatric online news, “PM News,” which is a daily online publication that goes out to all podiatrists throughout the nation.

Littlejohn also worked at Atrium Health Cleveland as a CNA. After her internship, she is interested in pursuing podiatry. Greene is a medical assistant at EventUs Health near Charlotte, N.C., and plans to take the Medical College Admission Test soon and apply to Podiatric Medical School.��

“We are super proud of both young ladies,” Lawrence praised. “We continue to look forward to partnering with Ms. Smith to provide other �۶�ֱ�� students similar opportunities here in our own backyard of Cleveland County, N.C. Hopefully, together with �۶�ֱ��, we can bring some new, young podiatrists back to help practice the profession.”

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�۶�ֱ�� Senior Interns with Global Ministry for the Summer

Office of University Communications — Thu, 06 Jul 2023 12:47:26 +0000

Emily White, ’24, Uses Communication and Marketing Skills at Trans World Radio

As a summer intern at Trans World Radio (TWR) in Cary, N.C., �۶�ֱ�� University senior Emily White has received hands-on opportunities to develop her skills. A double major in marketing and communication studies, White is working with the Global Content Team as a content creator and social media contributor, assisting TWR partners in South Africa and Singapore. White learned about the ministry from her aunt, who served there 20 years.

White, of Apex, N.C., is honored to be at the organization and grateful for the opportunity to work in a place that serves the Christian community. “During my internship, I am most excited to build connections with TWR staff from around the world,” White said in an article on the TWR website. “My favorite thing about TWR is how much people care about each other and are willing to sacrifice for the advancement of the Kingdom of God.”

Emily White, front row, left, poses with other summer interns at Trans World Radio.

After having Zoom meetings with the teams in South Africa and Singapore, White created social media accounts for a new station. She has also helped with website editing and design so ad campaigns can direct listeners to the site. “I am able to use my knowledge of design and media from my communications studies at �۶�ֱ��, as well as my knowledge of marketing to help me make decisions and represent the brands well,” White asserted. “I am also able to use my collaboration skills to work well with my teammates not only in this office, but all over the world.”

White was recruited to �۶�ֱ�� to play lacrosse and accepted the offer because the University’s mission and close-knit atmosphere appealed to her. Although an injury requiring surgery has put her on the sidelines for her senior year, she’s grateful to be involved at GWU in other ways.

“The most rewarding moments of my college experience have been in service, rather than what I’ve done for myself, as the Lord is greater glorified through my life,” White affirmed. “At �۶�ֱ��, I have been able to deepen my faith and find more purpose outside of just my achievements.”

During her recovery, she has found strength in Psalm 73:6, “My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.”

Portions of this story are from a by Trans World Radio writer and social media specialist Malise Terrell.

See an interview with Emily White by Micah Martin, director of the GWU Center for Personal and Professional Development, .

About Trans World Radio

Broadcasting since 1954, (TWR) is a global network of partnerships using media to take God’s word to the world. The organization shares the gospel in 230+ languages on air, online and on the ground in 190 countries.

About �۶�ֱ��

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�۶�ֱ�� Department of Communication, Art and Design Hosts First Professional Takeover Day

Office of University Communications — Wed, 29 Mar 2023 19:40:46 +0000

Communications Professionals from Several Fields Share Insider Advice with Students

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Professional communicators took over classes in �۶�ֱ�� University’s Department of Communication, Art and Design (CAD) on March 22 for the first Professional Takeover Day. The guests represented print and broadcast journalism, social media and public relations. During the day, they participated in panel discussions that focused on the theme: “Cultivate, Connect, and Create Your Career Game Plan.” Students also had an opportunity to meet one-on-one with Dedrick Russell, a recruiter from Gray Television.

“The CAD Professional Takeover Day is an excellent example of bringing together our professionals internally within �۶�ֱ�� University and externally in our community,” observed Dr. Kortni Alston, department chair and associate professor of journalism and communication. “This event helped students gain confidence in pursuing careers in the communications industry related to journalism, public relations, graphic design, and photography.”

Kara Fohner, left, a reporter at the Gaston Gazette, and Micah Martin, director of the GWU Center for Personal and Professional Development, were also guests for the CAD Professional Takeover Day. Photos by Shira Edwards / GWU Photo Staff

Students had opportunities throughout the
day to speak with the guests one-on-one.

Russell appreciated the number of students who signed up to speak with him one-on-one. “That shows their aggressiveness, their eagerness to find employment and to make a connection to fill that social capital,” he said. “They are creative. They think big, they want to conquer the world and they are getting that (mindset) here at �۶�ֱ��.”

Students Eriana Meadows and Alexa Key, who serve as co-anchors and co-editors of the GWU student digital news team and online student publication, appreciated the opportunity to network and learn from the professionals. Key added, “I think the Q&A portion of the panel was most beneficial as students were able to ask direct questions to the panelists.”

The guests share behind the scenes insights on researching, writing and broadcasting news stories. They talked about developing sources and ethical considerations. Several times during the day, Alexis Mitchell, senior social media and community manager for Families Against Mandatory Minimum, emphasized the importance of joining professional organizations. She shared examples of how her membership in these groups has helped her gather information or contact sources for stories.

Reginald Walker Jr., a producer for Sports Business Journal in Charlotte, was impressed by the depth of the students’ questions and their positive attitudes. “The kids have been engaged and prepared,” he said. “They are defining what it means to understand the assignment and the opportunity that today brings.”

CAD Professional Takeover Day Guests

Ken Lemon, Gaston Bureau reporter for WSOC-TV and a three-time Emmy-Winning journalist with an Edward R. Murrow Award in Photography from Radio Television Digital News Association (RTDNA). Lemon is the Vice-President of Broadcast for the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ). He is a graduate of UNC-Wilmington.

Kara Fohner, a reporter at the Gaston Gazette and newspaper journalist since 2015. She has won 10 awards from the North Carolina Press Association. Her work has most often focused on the criminal justice system.

Reginald Walker Jr., a two-time Emmy-winning producer, who has worked for ESPN, covering the Super Bowl, multiple BCS National Championships, and a Rose Bowl. Walker is a producer for Sports Business Journal in Charlotte, a radio analyst for �۶�ֱ�� football, and TV analyst for Charlotte 49ers.

Noel Manning, associate vice president for Communications and Marketing at �۶�ֱ��, who has more than three decades of experience working in journalism, media relations, and marketing. He is an award-winning filmmaker and magazine editor.�� He was inducted into the Gallery of Distinguished Alumni at �۶�ֱ�� University.

Alexis Mitchell, a two-time Emmy-winning journalist, who is the senior social media and community manager for Families Against Mandatory Minimum. Before transitioning to the digital world, she worked as a News Content Specialist for WBTV News This Morning, WBTV News This Morning on BounceTV, WBTV News at Noon, and the lifestyle show “Morning Break” for 12 years.

Jackie Bridges, assistant director of University Communications at �۶�ֱ��, who has 30 years of experience as a reporter and editor at The Star, a newspaper in Shelby. She won three N.C. Press Association awards and was honored twice as The Star’s Journalist of the Year.

Micah Martin, the director of the Center for Personal and Professional Development at �۶�ֱ�� University. He has over 20 years of experience developing professionals through career and life design, innovative programming, and experimental learning.

Dedrick Russell, an award-winning journalist with more than 25 years of experience, who has worked in television newsrooms in Beaufort, S.C., Washington, D.C., and Charlotte, N.C. Russell works as a talent acquisition specialist for Gray Television, the company that owns WBTV and more than 100 television stations in the United States.

Learn more about the Department of Communication, Art and Design.

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�۶�ֱ�� Alumna Aliah Price Turned Internship at Starbucks Headquarters into a Job Offer

Office of University Communications — Thu, 23 Feb 2023 12:30:00 +0000

Black History Month Inspires Her to Keep Striving for Excellence

Aliah Price graduated from �۶�ֱ�� University in 2019 prepared for her next step: graduate school at N.C. State University. Through this opportunity, she was invited to attend the National Black MBA (Master of Business Administration) Conference. Many high-profile companies offered internship opportunities, but only one would develop her skills and satisfy her caffeine cravings. She applied and was accepted for an internship at Starbucks Headquarters in Seattle, Wash.

Aliah Price presented her internship project in front of over 150 people at Starbucks and later received a job offer.

“It was the perfect time and opportunity, and the Starbucks internship was exactly what I wanted to do post MBA,” Price asserted. “I was a product manager intern at Starbucks, and I was working on the core beverage team. The core beverage team is responsible for basically all the drinks that you see on the Starbucks menu.”

Her friends and family—including her sister, GWU’s Head Women’s Basketball Coach Alex Simmons—also said it was a perfect fit for her because of her affinity for Starbucks. “I tell my friends that if that Starbucks was on campus when I was there, I would have had no money,” she offered. “My Starbucks order on a regular basis is pretty complicated: a triple-iced blonde espresso with oat milk, extra caramel drizzle topped with vanilla sweet cream cold foam.”

As part of the internship, Price completed a summer project and presented it to over 150 people. Her work was so impressive that Starbucks’ management offered her a job as a project manager when she graduates in May.

As Price reflects on her success and the celebration of Black History Month, she appreciates the African Americans who paved the way for her and others. “The things they went through and the things they were able to do and accomplish helped me to get to where I am,” she acknowledged. “Now, essentially it’s up to me and my generation to do the same thing for future generations.”

One of her favorite trailblazers is Maya Angelou. “I’m a firm believer that words are very powerful and I think that her words during that time meant so much to the times that they were going through,” Price affirmed. “I think it’s very telling that people are still using her poems today. Your words are so important, and it matters how you use them. She had a really unique way of expressing herself and the things that were going on in a way that really resonated with people.”

Price also noted that knowing the history and what African Americans did to challenge barriers is worth repeating. “We celebrate this month so that some of the things our heroes did can repeat,” she explained. “It’s really important to highlight and celebrate and continue to study the history, so we can continue the excellence they started.”

She believes that her �۶�ֱ�� classes and extracurricular activities provided the foundation that allowed her to advance in her studies and be noticed by Starbucks management. She is thankful for Micah Martin, the director for the GWU Center for Personal and Professional Development, and Dean Mischia Taylor of the Godbold College of Business for pushing her to excel.

“Being Student Body President my senior year at �۶�ֱ�� prepared me for so much, because that last year I spoke at all kinds of things, but the biggest was speaking in front of the Board of Trustees,” Price related. “It’s helped me in interviews and to be in rooms with C-level people and have a conversation.”

She continued, “Micah really helped me with that too, especially at the beginning of my term as president. I wasn’t the most comfortable with speaking in front of people. Dean Taylor always had grad school in my ear. She was proud of me and knew it was something that I could do. She still keeps in touch. She was a big part of my story at GWU and my career, not only her classes but just her as a person. I really felt invested in and like she really cared about where I went after I left.”

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Senior Nursing Students From �۶�ֱ�� Serve at Joni and Friends Camp

Office of University Communications — Tue, 13 Dec 2022 18:35:20 +0000

Lessons Learned Helping Teens with Disabilities Brought Many ‘Shining Moments’

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—�۶�ֱ�� Hunt School of Nursing offered a new clinical experience this semester—a weekend serving teenagers with disabilities at Camp Caanan in Rock Hill, S.C. The camp was sponsored by , a Christian organization that focuses on providing normal everyday experiences for people living with disabilities.

Interviews were conducted to select the students for participation in this three-day event that involved each student providing 24-hour care to one or two teens with disabilities. Led by Instructor of Nursing Norma Mott, the group encountered many learning opportunities. “First of all, there was nothing easy about this weekend,” she shared. “We had long hours, bad weather, and non-wheelchair accessible terrain. The students dealt with issues such as scratching, hair pulling, non-verbal communication, and emotional outbursts.”

Despite these circumstances, Mott and the GWU senior nursing students agreed that the rewards were worth every inconvenience. “We got the best hugs, heard some of the most heartfelt prayers, and learned more about airplanes than we ever thought we could,” Mott affirmed. “I learned how to make a ‘cupcake’ out of gluten-free cookies and icing, and saw faith in action in ways that I personally have never had to deal with. We got to read bedtime stories and hear scripture read from a camper’s ‘tiny Bible.’ I could give so many more examples as each student had many shining moments.”

Spencer Hoffman, left photo, and Sam Zepeda pose with their camp buddies. Photos courtesy of Joni and Friends

Mott added that the camp setting required students to utilize a different set of skills. “This event provided the students the opportunity to build relationships with these children and pushed them outside of their comfort zone.” she assessed. “The Hunt School of Nursing shares a philosophy that a Bulldog Nurse CARES; we are Compassionate, Advocates, Respectful, Empathetic, and Servant leaders. The students demonstrated these qualities in every encounter and in ways not always possible in the traditional clinical setting.”

Spencer Hoffman, of Boiling Springs, had previously worked as a camp counselor for two different camps for children with disabilities. She said the camp setting is a less stressful way to encounter and learn how to provide care for children who might be non-verbal, display emotional outbursts, or express suicidal thoughts.

“I never thought I would get to do something like my work at those places again,” she related. “I was paired one-on-one with a camper who had various disabilities for the weekend. My fellow students were given one or two campers depending on the type of disability and level of attention needed for that child.”

Mott noted that the camp schedule looked leisurely—games and crafts, worship and Bible stories, and campfires with S’mores—but the teens required constant attention and supervision, which added intensity. “The students handled the entire weekend professionally and with compassion,” she commented. “They treated each situation as important as it was to the camper. Their teamwork was outstanding. Students were quick to step up anytime there was a need.”

Samantha “Sam” Zepeda, of Charlotte, N.C., was paired with a camper who had cerebral palsy. “I felt extremely unprepared going into this, but as the hours passed and I navigated small challenges with my camper, I realized how much I’ve grown since I’ve started nursing school,” Zepeda reflected. “My classes have helped me think like a nurse, which is something that has happened so gradually that I sometimes surprise myself with how I handle things now.”

Zepeda continued, “I learned so much from this experience. I was truly holding back tears the entire time I was there. Before this experience…I saw the disability rather than the person and this experience shifted my perspective. We have to see the person, not just the disability—that changes your entire approach towards the differently-abled community.”

Ruth Alabi, also of Charlotte, N.C., echoed her teammate’s comments. “This clinical was an eye-opener for me to treat and care for disabled patients in our community without bias, the same way we will treat and care for patients without disabilities,” she observed. “I learned more about active listening, caring with patience, and building trusting relationships. Also, it gave me the confidence to handle difficult situations. It teaches me that disability is not inability.”

Ruth Alabi, left, said the Joni and Friends Camp was an eye-opener for her in learning to treat and care for patients.

Learn more about the GWU Hunt School of Nursing.

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Godbold College of Business Entrepreneurship Club Hosts Dress for Success

Office of University Communications — Tue, 25 Oct 2022 13:48:06 +0000

Students ‘Shop’ for Business Clothing Donated by Campus Community

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—The Godbold College of Business Entrepreneurship Club recently hosted its second Dress for Success business apparel clothing drive for �۶�ֱ�� University students. Members of the club helped sort through the donations of dress shirts, pants, skirts, suits and jackets to set up a “shop” where students could come and select apparel suitable for interviews and to start their careers or internships.

The first business clothing drive was held in the spring. “We did the event the week prior to the Career and Internship Fair, so students had an opportunity to shop,” offered Angelina Smith, director of the Broyhill School of Management. “We tell students they need to dress at least business casual for the (Career and Internship Fair), and we didn’t want not having access to clothing to be a limitation for them. Dressing in professional apparel is important, because students need to look the part. It shows that they are serious about the opportunity.”

From left, Audrey White, accounting major and member of the Entrepreneurship Club, Angelina Smith, director of the Broyhill School of Management, and Spencer Creswell, career coach, organize the clothes donated for Dress for Success.

Career Coach Spencer Creswell echoed Smith’s observations and added that because so many students attended the event in the spring, the club and professors decided to offer it again. This time about 50 students came to select clothes for the Career and Internship Fair.

Besides needing the right apparel for the Career and Internship Fair, Smith added that students will need business clothes for upcoming networking opportunities. “They are starting to have interviews; there are WEL (Wednesday Experiential Learning) days for the College of Business, so they might be sitting next to a professional in the field,” she said. “Many students just don’t have access to business clothing or access to a car to go purchase clothing.”

Look your best

Creswell offered the following tips for what to wear to a job interview:

• Make sure your apparel matches.

• Avoid wild colors and outlandish prints.

• Solid colors are always a safe bet.

• Keep it simple.

Photo by Cyrus Richer / GWU Photo Staff

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