Faculty & Staff Archives - �۶�ֱ�� University

�۶�ֱ�� University Receives Federal Grant Totaling $2.16M Over Four Years

Office of University Communications — Thu, 17 Jul 2025 13:35:45 +0000

Funding Awarded to the College of Health Sciences to Address Behavioral Health Needs in Rural and Underserved Areas of North Carolina

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—�۶�ֱ��’s College of Health Sciences has received the University’s first federally-funded grant. Presented by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), the initial award is $550,000, which is renewable for three years for a total of $2.16 million. The funding will address behavioral health needs in rural and underserved areas through the Advancing Collaborative Care, Integration, and Interprofessional Education in Rural North Carolina (ACE) project.

The purpose of the ACE project is to prepare Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)-Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), and Clinical Mental Health Counselor (CMHC) students to practice in integrated care sites and improve access to behavioral health services for North Carolina. The University’s staff and faculty worked with its grants consulting partner, McAllister & Quinn, to obtain the award.

Nate Evans

“This grant represents a significant milestone for �۶�ֱ�� and affirms the vital role we play in addressing behavioral health disparities across our region,” affirmed Interim GWU President Nate Evans. “It also underscores the University’s commitment to improving behavioral health outcomes in rural and underserved communities. I am incredibly proud of our faculty and staff for their dedication and leadership in bringing this project to fruition.”

The proposed project will (1) build institutional infrastructure to support recruitment, teaching, and learning for a diverse clinical workforce; (2) enhance curricula and co-curricular activities to better prepare PMHNP and CMHC students to work in integrated care environments; and (3) expand clinical capacity for PMHNP and CMHC trainees in integrated care settings, with practice partners such as Atrium Health, CaroMont Behavioral Health, and Kintegra Behavioral Health.

By meeting its education and clinical objectives, the ACE project will propel the College of Health Sciences’ capacity to prepare graduates to meet urgent behavioral health service needs in North Carolina. The organization of activities throughout the project period reflects a thoughtful approach of capacity building, planning, implementation, evaluation, and sustainability. The PMHNP and CMHC students will work and learn together with preceptors and supervisors in integrated care settings, providing a high-quality learning experience.

Dr. Nicole Waters

“We are grateful for the support of this grant, which enhances the education of the PHMNP and CMHC students through integrated experiential learning,” shared �۶�ֱ�� Interim Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Nicole Waters. “This opportunity equips students to serve in high-need areas while fostering a strong commitment to compassionate, collaborative care. I extend thanks to our dedicated faculty, whose leadership was instrumental in securing the grant and is vital to the successful implementation of this meaningful initiative.”

Further, �۶�ֱ�� faculty will participate in extensive professional development, so that they can better prepare students, colleagues, clinical partners, and other members of the community to meet the unmet needs of marginalized populations, especially those who have or are at-risk of developing co-occurring mental health needs and substance use disorders. This professional development targets the serious unmet needs of children, adolescents, and transitional-age youth, and will enhance the collective approach to meeting their needs in the region.

The following faculty members collaborated on the grant proposal and will lead implementation of the ACE project: Dr. Tiffany Stewart (PMHNP program coordinator), Dr. Sharon Webb (chair, CMHC program), and Dr. Charlotte Stephens (associate professor of nursing).

�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. Ignite your future at �۶�ֱ��.edu.

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‘Moments of Ministry’: �۶�ֱ�� Mission Team Brings Hope to Kisumu, Kenya

Office of University Communications — Wed, 02 Jul 2025 16:23:21 +0000

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—“The homes we built were simple—made of sticks and mud or tin—but they were filled with purpose, love, and the hope of Christ,” said Stacy Simmons, associate minister to �۶�ֱ�� University for Pastoral Care.

The plain dwellings Simmons describes were constructed in Kisumu, Kenya, through Houses of Hope, a ministry of North Carolina Baptists on Mission. This summer, a 10-member team from �۶�ֱ�� helped to build four homes in four days. Team member Alani Keiger, a nursing major, will always remember how friendly and welcoming the people were. “Even though there was a huge language barrier between our group and the Kenyans, we shared the same love for the Lord,” Keiger affirmed. “We shared common words such as ‘Amen’ and ‘hallelujah.’ It opened my eyes to see how grateful they were to have God’s love when they might not have anything else.”

Led by Simmons and Nicole Beaver, instructor of nursing, the group also ministered in other ways. They attended a local church, where the GWU students taught the children, youth, and adult Sunday school classes. Tru Harrington, a biomedicine major, gave her testimony during the service. “It made my faith stronger to see how quickly the people we met would accept and believe in Christ after hearing about Him just once.”

The team purchased food for a children’s program and saw how God blessed their efforts. Beaver said the children may only get one meal a day or every other day. “We were told that the cost would be the equivalent of $60 in U.S.,” she said. “I didn’t think it would be many children at that cost. When it was time to go buy the food, we were told that there would be 80 children. I was told that the $60 would still be enough, even though I was unsure. We got to the school and there were about 100 children. I thought there would be no way that we would have enough food for that many. However, we experienced the fishes and loaves story from Matthew 14. Each child got fed and there were leftovers. God is a provider and can take the little we have and make it more than enough.”

Each day began with the team spending time with the families and listening to their stories. “Those early conversations helped us connect on a deeper level and reminded us why we were there,” Simmons reflected. “Whether playing soccer with the children or standing in a home praying with a family, each moment felt meaningful. We saw God at work opening hearts to hear the message of the Gospel and gently planting seeds of faith in the lives of those we met.”

At midday, the team stopped working on the house and separated. One group went into the surrounding community to tell people about God and pray with them. The other group stayed at the construction site to play soccer with the children and share Gospel stories.

Hannah Dover, a senior biochemistry major, was especially thankful for these opportunities to make new friends. ”Just being kind and showing love to one another like Jesus did creates unbreakable bonds, especially when you are brothers and sisters in Christ,” she related. “I got to see directly how big and marvelous God truly is. He allows everyone to come together—different cultures, languages, and places—to serve and worship Him, and he heard it all. My problems seem to be much smaller than when I used to view them. I know God’s got me.”

After ministering in the community, the group returned to have a meal prepared by the family receiving the home. They ate whatever was served, recognizing that it was a generous gift of hospitality and grace. Their joy and acts of kindness impressed biology major Isaiah LaNave. “Despite the extreme poverty and misfortune many of these people faced, the hope offered in Christ Jesus sustained them, and they knew it and weren’t ashamed of it,” he assessed. “It showed me what true faith looks like. They recognized that what they had was a gift from God and not a given right, something I take for granted too often.”

Daniel Martin, a senior youth discipleship major, agreed. “Everyone was so appreciative and grateful for everything that we did for them, and they always wanted to make sure that we were taken care of while working on their houses,” he affirmed. “It didn’t matter to them that they had little to nothing, they just wanted to take care of us and make sure we were comfortable. I am always wanting something better than what I currently have, but they are always happy just to have something, and they don’t wish for more. This trip taught me to be content with what the Lord has provided me in life and not to be ungrateful for the blessings He has given to me.”

When the construction was complete, the team dedicated each home to the Lord. “This was more than a ceremony—it was a moment of worship,” Simmons noted. “We gathered to pray, present the Gospel, and invite those present to respond to the hope found only in Jesus Christ. Through these moments of ministry, 23 people came to know Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. We give all glory to God for every life transformed by His grace.”

Team members:

Kaylee Maynor
Alani Keiger
Daniel Martin
Hannah Dover
Josie Holbert
Tru Harrington
Josh Young
Isaiah La Nave

Co-Leaders:

Stacy Simmons
Nicole Beaver

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On June 24, The Dawg Tag Digital ID Adds Webb Card to Smartphone Wallet or Device

Office of University Communications — Mon, 23 Jun 2025 10:30:00 +0000

Users Can Tap Their Android, iPhone or Apple Watch Anywhere the Card is Accepted

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Beginning on June 24, �۶�ֱ�� University will launch its new digital ID, The Dawg Tag. This program brings the convenience of the traditional Webb Card to a smartphone. Available for both Apple and Android devices, the Dawg Tag allows students, faculty, and staff to access campus facilities, meal plans, and make purchases—all from their phone’s wallet.

Through the GWU One Card office initiative, users can tap their device anywhere a physical card is accepted, making campus life more seamless and efficient. No longer will a separate card be required, the Dawg Tag can be managed from a smartphone.

Utilizing The Dawg Tag

The Dawg Tag is stored directly on the device and can be used even if Android, iPhone or Apple Watch does not have network connectivity.

There is no cost to use a student ID card in Android or Apple Wallet.

Faculty, staff, and students are eligible as long as they meet all device and software requirements.

The Dawg Tag works the same way as the plastic card—simply tap the reader with the phone instead of the card.

For general FAQs and specific information for Android, iPhone and Apple Watch, visit the website here.

If you have any difficulty using The Dawg Tag to complete a transaction, report the issue to the GWU One Card Office at spowell1@gardner-webb.edu or call (704) 406-2391. Business hours are Monday–Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

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�۶�ֱ�� President Dr. William M. Downs and First Lady Kim Downs Share Christmas Greetings

Office of University Communications — Tue, 10 Dec 2024 17:13:36 +0000

Concert Choir Performs Holiday Classic to Celebrate the Spirit of the Season

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—With music performed by the �۶�ֱ�� University Concert Choir under the direction of Dr. Joshua Cheney, �۶�ֱ�� President Dr. William M. Downs and First Lady Kim Downs invite you to join them in celebrating the spirit of the season in this annual video Christmas card.

Enjoy a beautiful rendition of “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” by Hugh Martin and Ralph Blaine with accompaniment by Timothy Scruggs of the �۶�ֱ�� University Department of Music.

While celebrating togetherness, success, and Christ’s guiding light, Dr. and Mrs. Downs reflect on the blessings shared with the Runnin’ Bulldog family and extend their heartfelt thanks to students, faculty, staff, alumni, and supporters who make �۶�ֱ�� a community like no other.

“From our hearts to yours, may this season be filled with joy, hope, and the peace of Christ.”

Special thanks:

• Boiling Springs Florist – Set Decorations

• The GWU Department of Music – Set Decorations

• Linda Lee – Set Decorations

• Joyce Reagan Pegram – Art Design Support

• Dr. Joshua Cheney and the GWU Concert Choir – Beautiful seasonal music

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�۶�ֱ�� Team Partners with Kudvumisa Foundation in Eswatini/Swaziland

Office of University Communications — Tue, 11 Jun 2024 18:04:07 +0000

Members Connect with Families, Help Provide Medical Care and Education

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Kudvumisa means “to praise” in the language of the people in Eswatini/Swaziland. It’s also the name chosen by Kudvumisa Foundation, an organization that provides medical clinics to people in this African county where medical care is lacking and HIV/Aids is prevalent.

After spending a week helping in the medical clinics, meeting the people, and worshiping with them, a mission team coordinated by the Office of Christian Life and Service at �۶�ֱ�� University came to realize the name’s significance. One of the group’s leaders, Stacy Simmons, associate minister to the University for Pastoral Care, described the experience. “We sang worship songs in another language,” she shared. “I could see girls of all ages lift their hands praising God and a few of our team members in tears. It’s incredible to hear a song in another language and to know that the presence of God was there. It’s amazing when we encounter the same God they worship, thousands of miles away on a different continent.”

The Kudvumisa Foundation has been working in the country for 15 years. Through the help of generous donors and volunteers, the non-profit organization has built two clinics and maintains a mobile outreach van. The Foundation’s missionaries constantly strive to increase the number of families they serve.

Team member Grace Fort, a junior nursing student, describe the trip as a “God-given blessing.” She reflected, “It was an amazing and joyful experience. I learned so much from the nurses we had the opportunity to shadow at the Kudvumisa Clinic. They taught me how the nurse-and-patient relationship works, and I learned more about how assessing, diagnosing, and prescribing works in the medical field. I also learned a lot from hanging out with the people there. I thoroughly enjoyed going to the kids’ club and hanging out and playing games with the kids. They were so filled with joy and so much fun to hang out with. The people are some of the most welcoming I have ever met in my life. They reminded me how no matter what life brings, there is still joy in the Lord.”

The �۶�ֱ�� team spent their mornings in the clinic and did outreach projects in the afternoons. They helped with a children’s ministry, played soccer and other games with the kids, delivered food to homes, met with the teen club and a Days for Girls group. Days for Girls is a separate international non-profit ministry that provides education and hygiene products to teens and young women.

“The people we worked with embraced our team with open arms,” Simmons observed. “It was a wonderful experience for the ladies to go and serve in a different part of the world. It’s great when a team can come back changed from an experience like this — to see what it’s like in another country other than our own.”

The Foundation’s medical team also left a lasting impression on �۶�ֱ�� student Kyndal Jackson. “Medical treatment may look a little different depending on where you go, but the passion and servant heart that medical providers possess is universal,” she related. “The devotion and compassion of the providers were very evident in Eswatini, and I hope to be able to reciprocate this attitude as an aspiring Physician Assistant.”

Jackson learned how to give injections and enjoyed interacting with the Eswatini children and teaching the young women about healthy living. She was grateful for the friendships she developed with the other team members and excited for the opportunity to go on a safari. “Thank you to those who donated and prayed for us,” she stated. “They were felt and greatly appreciated.”

Team Members

Stacy Simmons, associate minister to the University for Pastoral Care.
Dr. Melissa McNeilly, assistant professor, Hunt School of Nursing.
Emma Wooten, of Matthews, N.C., nursing.
Grace Fort, of Monroe, Ga., nursing.
Madison Greene, of Sherrills Ford, N.C., nursing.
Sarah McLean, of Lenoir, N.C., nursing.
Kayla Wehunt, of Cherryville, N.C., psychology.
Montana Adams, of Robbinsville, N.C., exercise science.
Ali Parton, of Rutherfordton, N.C., biology.
Kyndal Jackson, of Gaffney, S.C., biology.

Learn more about the GWU Office of Christian Life and Service.

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‘We Ignited Impacts Today’ — �۶�ֱ�� Students Host Third Annual March of Pie Fundraiser

Office of University Communications — Thu, 21 Mar 2024 16:12:46 +0000

Volunteers Took a Pie in the Face to Raise Nearly $900 for March of Dimes

By Marianne Luedeman, GWU-Today Lead Writer

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Several student organizations at �۶�ֱ�� University recently sponsored their third annual March of Pie fundraiser for the March of Dimes. This fun event allows both students and community members to throw pies at other students, faculty, and staff in exchange for a donation.

The pie throwing took place on March 20 in front of Tucker Student Center. It featured an auction style donation system where members of the campus community could bid for the right to pie the event’s nominees.

Among those nominated were Dean of Students Lesley Villarose, Director of Housing Shelbilyn Boelsche and University Vice President and Athletic Director Dr. Andrew Goodrich among others.

All proceeds from the event went to the charitable organization March of Dimes, described by organizer Cyrus Richer as “a national association that leads the fight for the health of all moms and babies through advocacy, research, and education.”

In explaining the origins of the event, Richer noted that he wanted to find an engaging way to bring attention to the March of Dimes’ cause. In its grading of countries, March of Dimes gave America a D+ for maternal healthcare. “In order to shed a little bit of light on that, I wanted to host an event that would both be fun and bring awareness,” said Richer.

The fundraiser, which has occurred annually since 2022, has been tremendously successful in both raising awareness and raising funds.

“This year we were able to raise over $886, and we are still expecting a few more donations. We raised $882 in the first year and a little over $500 the second. Our total is well over $2,000,” said Richer.

The event was a multi-organizational effort, being organized by members of FBLA Collegiate, the Student Government Association, the Student Nursing Association, and the Math Club. The lead organizers of the event include students Cyrus Richer, Breanna Littlejohn, Jailyn Tineo, Courtney Gant, Lauren Setzer, AJ Leyva, Crystal Aldridge, and Allison Shortridge.

The 2024 fundraiser notably featured the first-time participation of the Math Club, as the event also served as their recognition of Pi Day (March 14).

“My executive team and I talked about how we wanted to do an event involving Pi day. One of our team members was in FBLA, and asked if we knew anything about March of Dimes. One thing led to another, and Cy then reached out to us and asked us to collaborate,” said organizer and Math Club Vice President Jailyn Tineo.

The executive team behind the event shared their appreciation for the students, faculty, and staff who were pied, noting that the event couldn’t exist without them.

“The nominees were such good sports about everything. (Despite getting) pie thrown in their face on such a hot day, we just really want to thank them for being such good sports,” said organizer Courtney Gant.

The fundraiser’s executive team ultimately credited the event’s success to the �۶�ֱ�� and Boiling Springs community who donated and participated.

“It takes an entire community to lead a movement like this and the fight for the health of all mothers and babies. We did that together, we ignited impacts today. It’s always been the community who have really driven that impact and that change through the March of Pie,” concluded Richer.

For more information about the efforts of March of Dimes, visit .

Writer Marianne Luedeman, ’25, is a journalism major.

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.

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Gardner-Webb Offers New Benefits Through the Health Clinic

Office of University Communications — Fri, 11 Aug 2023 15:24:05 +0000

Employees, Their Spouses and Dependents Covered by the University’s Health Plan May Obtain Services for Free or Discounted Rates

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—�۶�ֱ�� employees who are on the University’s health plan may now obtain the services offered by the �۶�ֱ�� Health Clinic for free. In addition, an employee’s spouse and dependents, who are on the GWU health plan, may now access the Clinic for a charge of $15 per visit.

During the fall and spring semesters, the Clinic, 148 Memorial Drive, Boiling Springs, is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to noon and 1 to 5 p.m. Summer hours are 1 to 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday. The Clinic also offers virtual visits. Clients can meet with providers via phone or video calls during office hours. After hours and weekend support is available via the Nurse Triage Line as well as Atrium Health’s 24/7 virtual on-call provider that can provide care coordination.

The Clinic offers the following services:

First aid/treatment for minor injuries.
Treatment for minor illnesses.
Lab work (e.g., blood work, allergy shots).
Student-athlete physicals.
Health education, training, and support.
Care coordination—If a client can’t find care, the Clinic will help them navigate their options and find the right solutions, quickly and confidentially.

The GW Health Clinic can be reached at (980) 487-2390.

Note: This benefit is being offered on a trial basis. The �۶�ֱ�� Health Clinic is primarily for students, who pay a fee for access to its services. If insured employee/spouse/dependent use of the Clinic impedes or limits student access, then employee/spouse/dependent access may be reduced or discontinued after 30 days’ notice to employees.

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Join �۶�ֱ�� for a Night with the Charlotte Knights

Office of University Communications — Tue, 28 Mar 2023 20:30:29 +0000

Discounted Tickets Available to GWU Students, Alumni, Employees and Friends

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Join the �۶�ֱ�� University family at The Charlotte Knights on Friday, April 14. �۶�ֱ�� Cheerleaders, the Sound of the Springs Marching Band, Bo the Mascot and more will be at Truist Field to support The Knights as they take on the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp.

The gates open at 6 p.m. with the first pitch at 7:04 p.m. �۶�ֱ��’s own Big South Champion Football Coach Tre Lamb is set to throw out the first pitch.

A fireworks show will be held at the end of the game. The Charlotte Knights, an affiliate of the Chicago White Sox, is a Triple-A Minor League Baseball team in the International League. Truist Field is located at 324 S. Mint St., Charlotte, N.C.

Discounted tickets are available to students, alumni, faculty, staff, and friends at this .

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Dr. Natalie Edwards Bishop Promoted to Dean of �۶�ֱ��’s Dover Library

Office of University Communications — Fri, 17 Feb 2023 15:11:36 +0000

Alumna and Associate Dean has Served Library Since 2007

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—�۶�ֱ�� University Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Karen Aubrey has announced the promotion of Dr. Natalie Edwards Bishop to dean of Dover Library. Bishop currently serves as associate dean and University archivist.

“Dr. Bishop brings a determination to increase usage of the library, build partnerships, and make sure our library is seen as a vital heart of the campus,” Aubrey affirmed. “She has a willingness to take a fresh look at Dover and move us to the next level.”

Bishop follows a practical approach to library administration and leadership. Her focus will be on delivering high-impact services to the �۶�ֱ�� community that align with the academic curriculum and University Strategic Plan.

“The role of libraries in higher education has shifted over the course of my career,” Bishop noted. “Libraries should no longer be dark and dusty repositories of things—rather, modern libraries should be an active hub of student learning and community engagement. I am excited to take on this new opportunity to lead and explore how the Dover Library may serve as a modern community of learning and engagement for �۶�ֱ��.”

New Dean of the Library, Dr. Natalie Bishop, greets a visitor to the “Bound by Faith: The Bibles of Cleveland County” exhibit, which was a collaboration with the Earl Scruggs Center in January 2022.

�۶�ֱ�� President Dr. William Downs praised Bishop’s appointment, noting “She has the capacity to revive Dover Library and to make it a focal point for individual and collaborative scholarship. I am especially eager to see the extent to which she makes innovation the signature characteristic of our facility and our collections. We should become an exemplar, a case study in how university libraries can meet the evolving needs of students, faculty, and community. I’m confident that is within Dr. Bishop’s reach.”

Bishop came to �۶�ֱ�� in 2007 as instruction librarian and began serving as University archivist in 2010. In this position, she has helped leverage the archive collection for teaching, scholarship, and fundraising. A key focus of her preservation strategy is digitization projects, such as the Fay Webb Gardner Collection and Kings Mountain Baptist Association Collection, which allow the library to expose historic collections to a broader audience. Through partnerships and collaborative exhibits with local museums, Dover Library is utilizing its collections for education and outreach in an innovative way.

Bishop earned a Doctor of Education in curriculum and instruction from GWU, a Master of Library and Information Science from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, and a Bachelor of Arts in history from Wingate (N.C.) University.

She grew up in Marshville, N.C., but has deep roots in Cleveland County, N.C., through her mother’s family. Bishop and her husband, Stephen, and their son, Thomas, live in Patterson Springs, N.C., in the house built by her great-great-grandparents. The Bishops also operate the White House Honeybee Farm, a tradition that also goes back to her great-grandfather. Her grandparents are their next-door neighbors.

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Gardner-Webb Officials Announce Hiring of New Associate Vice President of Human Resources

Office of University Communications — Fri, 10 Feb 2023 21:44:17 +0000

Sharon Hammonds Starts Feb. 21, Brings 18 Years of Experience to New Position

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—�۶�ֱ�� University officials have announced that Sharon Hammonds of Roebuck, S.C., is the new associate vice president for Human Resources (HR). Hammonds has 18 years of experience in HR in corporate and higher education settings. She begins her duties at GWU on Feb. 21.

“I am delighted that we have now filled this important leadership position with someone who has the level of experience and strength of character as Sharon Hammonds,” shared GWU President Dr. William Downs. “There is so much that we need to modernize and professionalize in this area at �۶�ֱ��, but Human Resources will always remain focused on people; in my view, Sharon has the skillset to grow HR to a level that it meets the daily needs of our thriving university while never forgetting that it’s the people who ultimately matter. Taking care of our employees is central to our institutional mission, and bringing in someone who knows how to do that is a big step forward.”

Sharon Hammonds

Since 2021, Hammonds has been the HR manager for Walmart Supply Chain and Logistics in Laurens, S.C. She served on the senior leadership team to guide programs focused on attracting and retaining talent and ensuring compliance with state and federal laws. Hammonds managed complex associate relations issues regarding policy violations related to discrimination, harassment, alcohol and drug use and retaliation for up to 900 hourly associates and salaried managers.

Hammonds stated, “In returning to higher education, I wanted to join �۶�ֱ�� because of its student-focused mission, Christian-centered beliefs which are ingrained in its daily culture, and its plan for educational growth and expansion.”

She added, “I understand the value of education and wanted to be a part of an organization that will support and help develop future leaders.”

Hammonds’ experience in education also includes serving as the chief of staff and operations for Meeting Street Schools in Spartanburg, S.C. In this position, she led HR functions for compliance, engagement and retention, hiring, and employee development. She also advised the leadership team and conducted investigations to facilitate resolutions for employee grievances. Hammonds led the planning and execution of the budget.

She has also worked for Venture Measurement (A Fortive Company), V2D (Vision to Destiny), Spartanburg Community College, Limestone College, and Proaxis Therapy. In these positions, she managed Human Resources. In some of the roles, she created the HR department by implementing best practices, or she developed policies and procedures across multiple facilities.

As she looks forward to joining the �۶�ֱ�� campus, Hammonds related, “As the Associate VP of Human Resources, I envision this role being centered around leadership collaboration, engaging dialogue, and creating proactive solutions for people and process opportunities.” She continued, “I would like to see the HR team focus on implementing recruiting strategies to attract top talent, expedite time to fill processes, and offer an informative onboarding process based on departmental needs. We will also review retention strategies by analyzing trends and gauging campus morale to determine initiatives for greater engagement. As a component of this strategy, we will review opportunities in the area of total rewards for faculty and staff. I am excited about this new venture and joining the wonderful family of GWU.”

Hammonds has a Bachelor of Arts in psychology from Clemson (S.C.) University and earned her Master of Arts in industrial-organizational psychology from the University of West Florida in Pensacola. She completed the Employee Relations Law Series at Ogletree Deakins Law Firm and Fortive Internal Investigations with Fortive Legal Team in 2018. She is certified as a Professional in Human Resources (PHR) and a Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR).

Hammonds and her husband, Rodney, have been married for 23 years. They have two sons: Devin, a freshman in college, and Darius, a ninth-grader, who plays soccer, football and basketball. She also has a Maltipoo, Jenna, and long-haired Dachshund, Remington.

Search Committee

Conducting the national search for �۶�ֱ�� were:

Dr. Anna Hamrick, Assistant Director, Hunt School of Nursing, Associate Professor, and Faculty Chair.
Esther Porter, Interim Associate Vice President of Human Resources.
Steve Serck, University Counsel.

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