First-Year Programs Archives - �۶�ֱ�� University

�۶�ֱ�� Incoming First-Year Students Form Strong Bonds in Living-Learning Communities (LLC)

Office of University Communications — Tue, 10 Dec 2024 16:59:06 +0000

Division of Student Success Offers Three Options: Honors, Faith and STEM

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—After successfully introducing �۶�ֱ�� University’s first living-learning community (LLC) last year, the Division of Student Success in collaboration with the Office of Housing and Residence Education added two more LLCs for the 2024 Fall Semester. Incoming first-year students could choose to participate in one of three LLCs: Faith, STEM or Honors.

An LLC is a program where first-year students live together on campus and participate in a shared academic endeavor. The pilot group was the Honors LLC led by Faculty Fellow Dr. Wilson Hawkins. Honors students who chose to participate last year were enrolled in the same University 111 section and lived in HAPY Hall. University 111 is a required class for all first-year students that helps them transition to university life, establish community, practice approaching academics through a Christian worldview, and develop skills to succeed in life during and after GWU.

Earlier in the 2024 Fall Semester, the Faith and STEM LLCs met for a friendly game of volleyball.

Housing and Student Success are planning to add two additional LLCs for the 2025 Fall Semester. These new programs will focus on music and performing arts, and leadership and service.

Kara Alves, director of Success Initiatives and First-Year Experiences, explained that LLCs bridge students’ academic and residential experiences together as they thrive both in and out of the classroom.

“After having them for just two years, we have seen an increase in students’ sense of belonging as each LLC intentionally fosters community through social events and enhanced learning environments that help them connect to the greater �۶�ֱ�� community,” Alves described. “Each one is tailored to a theme that allows students to form bonds around shared experiences within the community. We see examples of this as the Faith LLC often integrates faith and learning by examining how scripture helps orient our lives to the truth of God’s word. STEM allows students of interdisciplinary studies to have a collaborative atmosphere through experiential learning and industry connections. The Honors LLC provides an enriched academic experience that blends social engagement while still preparing each student for future research and career endeavors.”

Alves also expressed her appreciation for the support and partnership of the Office of Housing and Residence Education. “Their efforts to accommodate each student and provide the great amenities and additional programming has greatly impacted the success of Living-Learning Communities,” Alves praised. “As LLCs continue to gain exposure, we are hopeful for the vast impact they will mark on student success and retention.”

The Faculty Fellows for the new LLCs were Professor of Religious Studies Dr. Paula Qualls, who led the Faith LLC, and Assistant Professor of Biology Susan Manahan directed the STEM LLC.

Manahan pointed out that because the STEM members were in the same courses, they shared study tips and techniques. When Hurricane Helene hit western North Carolina, Manahan and her peer leader, senior Kyndal Jackson, led a cookies and coloring destress activity. Manahan also invited the GWU Office of Personal and Professional Development to show community members how to build a professional LinkedIn page and talk about the benefits of internships.

STEM LLC

Joining the STEM LLC appealed to Kaydence McDonald, of Franklin, N.C., a health care management major, because she thought the group would help her meet new people and make connections. “We all live in the same dorm, so it’s easy to talk to them because we have class together,” McDonald related. “The teacher for this class is really awesome. We went over a book called ‘Failure is not Final.’ I liked that because coming in as a freshman to college everything is scary. It can be nice to know that failure is not the end of the world.”

Luis McElearney, an exercise science major from New Bern, N.C., chose to be in the STEM LLC, because he wanted to surround himself with people who have similar interests and goals. “I could help them and they could help me and it could be like a symbiotic relationship,” he observed. “It’s been good. There’s many times where we have discussions about our other classes, whether it’s anatomy and physiology, biology, or any type of STEM classes.”

Ja’Kayla Alexander, a nursing major from Shelby, N.C., said being in the STEM LLC has made it easier to form friendships. “You get to see familiar faces around the campus, so you don’t feel like an outsider completely,” she observed.

Similarly, members of the Faith LLC described how they have developed friendships that extended beyond their group. They nominated Qualls for the First-Year Experience Instructor of the Year Award, and she was selected as the winner by the First-Year Experience Advisory Committee. The honor recognizes a University 111 Instructor who has made a significant impact on academic and personal development. The individual demonstrates exceptional dedication to fostering a supportive and engaging learning environment while modeling a Christlike character.

Dr. Paula Qualls received the First-Year Experience Instructor of the Year Award.

Qualls said leading the Faith LLC with help from her Peer Leader Emmajean Hampton, a sophomore, was an amazing experience. “It has far exceeded anything that I could have hoped for or imagined it to become,” she expressed. “Students have bonded together in friendship and community: They worship together, pray together, study and learn together, share meals, entertainment, and even participate in Christian service together. What is happening with these students is larger than the class itself. It is truly an astonishing dynamic to witness and be part of.”

The students in the LLC are sharing their faith with others across campus. Two members of the community, Troy Berchoff, of Mooresville, N.C., and Matthew Greene, of Knoxville, Tenn., started their own podcast, “,” to discuss topics about God and scripture. Toward the end of the semester, Elizabeth Qualls, Qualls’ daughter and another member of the LLC, joined Berchoff to create a spin-off series called “.”

Greene, an exercise science major, said the podcast grew out of discussions he had with Berchoff, who is majoring in English with a minor in biblical studies. “Troy and I had lunch and we started talking about God,” Greene related. They continued to exchange ideas until one day Greene asked, “What if we just started a podcast?”

Another member of the Faith LLC, Mackenzie “Kenzie” Kenan, a psychology major from Charlotte, N.C., said the group is an answer to her prayer to be surrounded by Christian friends. “And it’s just so beautiful that I have them now,” she asserted. “He’s given me this entire classroom of people, who love the Lord, are funny and kind. We laugh a lot. I’m quiet, but they make me want to reach out and talk and you know, it’s an amazing experience to have all these people.”

Faith LLC

�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.

The post �۶�ֱ�� Incoming First-Year Students Form Strong Bonds in Living-Learning Communities (LLC) appeared first on �۶�ֱ�� University.

�۶�ֱ��’s First Living-Learning Community Helps Students Transition to Campus Life

Office of University Communications — Tue, 05 Dec 2023 17:47:35 +0000

Honors Pilot Group Values the Relationships and Community Created by the Program

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—�۶�ֱ��’s Division of Student Success and Office of Housing and Residence Education offered the University’s first living-learning community (LLC) this semester. An LLC is a program where first-year students live together on campus and participate in a shared academic endeavor. They also have resources in their residence environment designed for them and engage in structured social activities that also emphasize academics.

The pilot group is the University 111 Honors Section first-year experience course taught by Dr. Wilson Hawkins. An assistant professor of physics, Hawkins is the director of the University Honors Program and faculty fellow for the Honors LLC. Before the 2023 Fall Semester started, first-year students learned about the new LLC. Those who chose to enroll as Honors students were invited to participate.

Dr. Wilson Hawkins, director of the University Honors Program, is the faculty fellow for the Honors Living-Learning Community (LLC) and the peer leader is Makayla Jibben.

“Our students definitely collaborated inside and outside of class,” Hawkins observed. “We played a game where they threw a volleyball around the room and answered questions written on the ball. During this game they recalled some of their favorite college memories, things they regret, things they like to do to destress, etc. Most of these small responses included moments and activities involving each other. They started various Bible study and homework session traditions in their dorm on their own.”

Other special activities held for the 17 students in their residence hall included a question-and-answer session with seniors in the honors program. Students learned about Honors conferences, travel, the Honors thesis, Honors Student Association and other topics. The students were also invited to enjoy doughnuts and muffins while meeting one-on-one with Hawkins in HAPY lobby.

“In Housing, we’ve seen the benefits of this new addition come to fruition within the current class living in HAPY Hall,” said Shelbilyn Boelsche, director of Housing and Residence Education. “I look forward to the continued partnership with Student Success in creating a holistic living and learning environment for our student body.”

Dr. Ryan Erck, executive director of the Division of Student Success, added that LLCs set students up for success moving forward. He quoted from national research conducted by the Assessment of Collegiate Residential Environments and Outcomes. “Students living in an LLC were shown to exhibit higher levels of campus belonging, career attitudes, critical thinking scores, and campus civic engagement,” Erck noted. “In short, these types of initiatives are positively associated with a number of academic and social outcomes.”

Makayla Jibben, a biomedical sciences major, served as Peer Leader for the Honors LLC. She said her priority has been to create a space where students could freely express themselves and connect with each other. “I’m a senior now, but I still remember all the emotions that I felt as a freshman, some of which were overwhelming or even negative at times,” Jibben reflected. “I know as a new student, they’re most likely juggling feelings of homesickness while also being worried about how to balance classes, all while trying to find their people. I see this goal coming to life as my students come in together after grabbing breakfast or using our time tracker activity to make plans to play sand volleyball or go to the movies.”

Two students in the LLC, Ezekiel Petree and Rachel Gaura, said the program helped them connect to life on campus. Petree is majoring in elementary education and minoring in music. Gaura, a Tucker Scholar, is a psychology major with a minor in discipleship.

Petree believes that all students could benefit from the LLC concept. “It has been really helpful with the transition from home to here,” he stressed. “I think LLC is amazing; the people I am closest to all live in HAPY and most of us are in the same UNIV 111 class. Once I got to know these people, I was introduced to their friends and then I was able to build other relationships through that.” 

Gaura values the community and camaraderie. “I have enjoyed this program as it has allowed me to develop more intimate relationships with other freshman on campus,” she reflected. “It increases our understanding of one another, while also allowing us extra time to spend together outside of the classroom. Additionally, it gives me someone to walk to class with since we’re all coming and going from the same place.”

The post �۶�ֱ��’s First Living-Learning Community Helps Students Transition to Campus Life appeared first on �۶�ֱ�� University.

New �۶�ֱ�� UNIV 111 Class Includes Mentoring in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM)

Office of University Communications — Mon, 13 Nov 2023 19:05:20 +0000

First-Year Experience Course Supported by a Grant from North Carolina Independent Colleges and Universities

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Groups of three or four students work quietly at long tables in a �۶�ֱ�� University UNIV 111 class. They examine tiny plastic pieces—the parts to a solar-powered robot—and study the instructions to determine how the piece fits into the machine. While the UNIV 111 program introduces first-year students to college life and promotes personal and academic development, this section taught by Assistant Professor of biology Susan Manahan also has an emphasis on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) through activities and mentors. Working on the robot not only develops critical-thinking skills, it gives the students an opportunity to develop relationships.

�۶�ֱ��’s Student Success Division developed this new course with a grant from North Carolina Independent Colleges and Universities (NCICU) to support a STEM Student-Faculty Mentoring Program. The Student Success staff devised a plan to implement the grant through the first-year experience course and asked Manahan to be the grant coordinator and lead the program.

Kara Alves, director of Success Initiatives and First-Year Experience, appreciates how Manahan has approached the opportunity to help students transition to life at GWU through the lens of STEM and career preparedness. “I am grateful for her willingness to go above and beyond in helping these students succeed as she impacts their first-year experience,” Alves praised. “Manahan’s class sets the tone for future opportunities as we continue to seek ways to creatively support our first-year student population.”

The students also work with tangram puzzles to create
different shapes.

Manahan does several supplemental activities for the class, such as organizing mentorship opportunities for students, equipping them with tools to succeed in their STEM-related courses, helping them develop a scientific identity, and providing them with resources to explore careers in STEM and STEM-adjacent fields.

“We spent some time specifically focused on how to study STEM classes and how important practice is for mastery of topics,” Manahan shared. “We began this topic by discussing an article about failure being a prerequisite for success in science. Failure occurs in research, experiments, and sometimes when learning STEM topics. We continued the discussion about study skills with an activity on measuring enthusiasm or passion and endurance or perseverance. We mentioned the use of lap whiteboards to practice when studying for tests. We discuss how to analyze and change study habits to be more successful.”

Computer science major Addi Avellaneda said that being in a UNIV 111 class with STEM majors is giving him study tools that will prepare him for the challenging classes he will take for his degree. “I definitely appreciate the fact that they take the time to help you and give you tips towards the beginning of the year with settling into the college life and giving you tips on how to study and prepare for exams or just studying in general,” he reflected.

Rain Bronson, a biology major who wants to pursue a medical degree, said Manahan and Jackson gave her helpful advice about what courses to take while she’s at �۶�ֱ�� that will also provide a solid foundation for graduate school. “I really like this class, because I feel like I would be lost without it,” she shared.

Peer Leader Kyndal Jackson helps a group of students put the robot together.

Peer Leader Kyndal Jackson, a biology major with biomedical concentration, provides additional support to help the first-year students adjust to college life. “A lot of times, it can be confusing trying to figure out our purpose in life, and it can feel overwhelming, especially in this new college setting,” Jackson observed. “As their STEM peer leader, I understand that pressure firsthand and can relate my own personal experiences. I enjoy listening to their interests, and in turn, I want to be there for them in their struggles. If there is a problem that I myself cannot help them with or resolve, I am happy to refer them to someone who can. As their peer leader, I want to see them thrive.”

In addition to Manahan and Jackson, the students receive encouragement and advice through an additional group of peer mentors, who contact them throughout the semester to see if they have questions or need help with anything. They also assist students in selecting their spring schedule of classes and developing their four-year plan.

To provide further support and career guidance, small groups of students meet with GWU alumni either in person or via Zoom. Some of the topics they discuss are how to succeed at GWU, set career goals, professionalism and networking, and ways to build your resume.

The alumni mentors are:

Keely Ford Schonewolf, Class of 2014, bachelor’s in bioloby, interim supervisor for environmental monitoring at Baxter Healthcare in Marion, N.C.
Linda Sain Bennett, Class of 2001, bachelor’s in biology, lead physical therapist at the Emerge Ortho Seagate in Wilmington, N.C. She has worked in outpatient orthopedics for 20 years and owned her own practice from 2009 to 2021.
Josh Stroup, Class of 2002 and 2011, bachelor’s in computer science and Master of Business Administration. He is strategic accounts support engineer with AlgoSec.
Stacie Smith, Class of 2005, bachelor’s in biology, �۶�ֱ�� instructor of biology.

“I hope the students in the class will gain a sense of community and see the importance of networking with their peer leader, upper-level peer mentors, and their assigned GWU alumni mentor,” Manahan asserted. “I also hope they will gain some friendships that will carry on beyond University 111 and into their major classes. I also believe that some of the study skills focused on STEM classes will help them be successful students. Discussions with the GWU alum mentor will hopefully give students a sense of the importance that shadowing, internships, and volunteer work can be in reaching career goals.”

Learn more about the Division of Student Success.

The post New �۶�ֱ�� UNIV 111 Class Includes Mentoring in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) appeared first on �۶�ֱ�� University.

�۶�ֱ��’s 2023 Fall Enrollment Sees Increase in New Traditional Undergraduate Students

Office of University Communications — Thu, 31 Aug 2023 20:18:48 +0000

525 Freshmen and Transfers from 26 States and 12 Countries Now Make GWU Home

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—For the 2023 Fall Semester, �۶�ֱ�� University administrators, faculty and staff welcomed 525 new traditional undergraduate students to campus—an increase over last year’s incoming cohort. This number incorporates first-time freshmen as well as transfer students from all corners of North Carolina, from across the country (26 states) and indeed from around the globe (12 countries).

“We are excited to welcome these new students to �۶�ֱ��,” affirmed Vice President for Enrollment Management Dean Clark. “Welcoming students to the new school year and watching their GWU story begin is always an exciting time.”

Clark noted that when asked why they chose to attend �۶�ֱ��, the most common response from these new Runnin’ Bulldogs is “feeling at home on the campus.” They also mentioned that everyone they met welcomed them and provided a smooth transition from high school to college.

Clark added his appreciation for all GWU employees who help to create this environment for new students and their families. “We are excited to see how much these students grow over the next four years and look forward to cheering them on as they walk across the stage,” he asserted.

“The recruitment of new undergraduate students is probably more competitive today than at any other time in the history of American higher education,” observed GWU President Dr. William Downs. “For �۶�ֱ�� to secure such a large and strong pool of new students speaks volumes about the reputation and value of a GWU degree, and it also speaks to the skill and dedication of our Admissions team that worked so hard for so many months to make college a reality for our newest Runnin’ Bulldogs.”

Classes for the Fall Semester began on Aug. 16. New students will continue learning about campus life throughout the semester in their University Life (UNIV 111) courses, which are designed to promote personal and academic development.

The post �۶�ֱ��’s 2023 Fall Enrollment Sees Increase in New Traditional Undergraduate Students appeared first on �۶�ֱ�� University.

�۶�ֱ�� Welcomes Over 500 New Students for 2023 Fall Semester

Office of University Communications — Fri, 18 Aug 2023 18:22:38 +0000

Orientation Events Prepare Students for Campus Life

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—The �۶�ֱ�� University Office of Student Development, along with other volunteers, welcomed more than 500 new students to campus with orientation activities on Aug. 12-15 for the 2023 Fall Semester. These new Runnin’ Bulldogs include first-year residential freshmen, commuters and over 100 transfer students.

“Those of us who have chosen to spend our careers on college campuses absolutely love the month of August!” shared GWU President Dr. William M. Downs. “We’ve been waiting all summer for this newest cohort of students to arrive, and their presence has already enlivened our community and energized us for the academic year ahead. Kim and I greatly enjoyed meeting all the families and welcoming everyone to what we believe will be the most rewarding four years of their lives.”

GWU President Dr. William M. Downs and his wife, Kim, met students and families at an ice cream social.

On move-in day, a group of 80 volunteer students, staff and faculty provided a friendly face and extra muscles to carry boxes and other belongings to the students’ rooms, noted Neal Payne, associate minister to the University for Student Ministries. These Bulldog Movers are coordinated each year by the Offices of Christian Life and Service and Housing and Residence Education.

“I love orientation and move-in every year,” asserted Brian Arnold, assistant dean of Students, director of Student Engagement and New Student Orientation. “It’s exciting, because (for parents) it’s that next phase of life happening for their kids. Parents are helping them along this journey into adulthood, and we get to be a part of that. We watch families love on each other and embrace this moment. We get to be a small part of that, and we get to embrace it with them.”

Classes for the Fall Semester began on Aug. 16. New students will continue learning about campus life in their orientation groups and University Life (UNIV 111) courses, which are designed to promote personal and academic development.

Orientation Leaders introduce themselves during the Official Welcome Session for new students.

Other welcome back events in August:

Aug. 18

7 to 9 p.m., Welcome Back Celebration for all students, Bost Gym Parking Lot.

Aug. 24

7 p.m., Healing Our Racial Divide with Derwin Gray and Clayton King.
7:30 p.m., Men’s Soccer vs. Wofford, Greene-Harbison Stadium.

Aug. 25

9 a.m. to 11 p.m., Paint-a-Palooza, Bost Gym Parking Lot.
7 p.m., Women’s Soccer vs. Allen, Greene-Harbison Stadium.

Aug. 27

6 p.m., Women’s Soccer vs. ETSU, Greene-Harbison Stadium.

Aug. 28

7 to 8 p.m., Paws Awhile with therapy dogs, Tucker Student Center.

Aug. 29

3 to 5 p.m., Together Tuesday DIY Door Sign, Tucker Student Center.

Aug. 30

8 to 10 p.m., Open Mic & Karaoke, Tucker Student Center

The post �۶�ֱ�� Welcomes Over 500 New Students for 2023 Fall Semester appeared first on �۶�ֱ�� University.

Feeding Kids/Reading Kids of Cleveland County, N.C., Grateful for �۶�ֱ�� Support Since 2015

Office of University Communications — Fri, 18 Nov 2022 20:18:34 +0000

Community Organization Relies Entirely on Volunteers to Help Families

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Feeding Kids/Reading Kids of Cleveland County, N.C., is fully dependent on volunteers to meet the needs of families in the community. Recently, �۶�ֱ�� University Instructor of Nursing Tara Hayes took her University Life 111 (UNIV 111) class to volunteer at the non-profit organization. She was surprised to discover some GWU connections already in place.

Feeding Kids/Reading Kids is housed in the Mt. Calvary Baptist Church Community Life Center in Shelby. The Center’s Executive Director, Chad Roseboro, is a GWU alumnus and current Master of Divinity student. He and Hayes completed their bachelor’s degrees at the same time. In addition, the pastor of Mt. Calvary, Lamont Littlejohn, has three degrees from �۶�ֱ�� and currently serves on the GWU Board of Trustees.

Chad Roseboro, center, looks at the books the �۶�ֱ�� students are processing.

Roseboro greeted Hayes with enthusiasm and shared that he was encouraged to see students from his alma mater volunteering for Feeding Kids/Reading Kids. He also remembered the impact participating in a service project had on him and his class. “I value 100% the relationships I made while at �۶�ֱ��,” Roseboro asserted. “Most of my current friendships were set in foundation during my time there, and I look forward to more relationships forming from my ties to �۶�ֱ��.”

As executive director of the Community Life Center, Roseboro is responsible for daily operations, making sure everything runs smoothly for the non-profit groups and law enforcement agencies housed there. Atrium Health also has a on the campus.

Feeding Kids/Reading Kids distributes boxes of food and age-appropriate books to families six times a year: Thanksgiving, Christmas, spring break, June, July and August. These boxes contain pantry items and fresh food. The families who receive the food have been identified by school social workers as families with food insecurities.

During the year, the organization provides bags of food to elementary students to take home on the weekends. And there’s where another GWU connection comes in—�۶�ֱ��’s Student Government Association (SGA) packs the food bags for the elementary school children. Micah Martin, director of �۶�ֱ��’s Center for Personal & Professional Development, is a founding board member of Feeding Kids. He has involved SGA from the group’s beginning in 2015.

Martin said the SGA packs 50 bags that are delivered weekly to students at three schools. “Feeding Kids uses financial donations to order the food items and has them delivered here to campus for SGA to pack,” he explained. “It comes straight to our post office here in Tucker. I unload it and break it down with SGA help. It’s a simple process that works well.”

For more information about volunteering or donating, contact .

To our readers: Feeding Kids of Cleveland County is a separate organization from The Little Bulldog Backpack Program, led by GWU Registrar registrar@gardner-webb.edu. Also a non-profit organization, The Little Bulldog Backpack Program provides food to children at two schools in the Boiling Springs area, Springmore Elementary and Boiling Springs Elementary. Healthy food is delivered in backpacks that are filled weekly by the various clubs and departments at �۶�ֱ��. For more information regarding the Little Bulldog Backpack Program, contact Scates.

The post Feeding Kids/Reading Kids of Cleveland County, N.C., Grateful for �۶�ֱ�� Support Since 2015 appeared first on �۶�ֱ�� University.

�۶�ֱ�� Students Help Pack Thanksgiving Food Boxes and Books for Families in Need

Office of University Communications — Fri, 18 Nov 2022 19:19:00 +0000

After Learning About Needs in the Community, University 111 Class Wanted to Volunteer Again

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Earlier in the semester, �۶�ֱ�� Instructor of Nursing Tara Hayes arranged for her University Life (UNIV 111) class to participate in a service-learning day at of Cleveland County, N.C. They sorted and separated books into age-appropriate categories and liked the idea of helping children and families in the community. Upon returning to campus, the 18 students asked Hayes when they could go and help again.

She was excited that her students experienced both service and learning while completing the activity, which is one of her goals in teaching the course. UNIV 111 is offered to all first-year students and promotes personal growth, wellness, and academic development.

Hayes observed, “It’s sometimes easier to drop off canned goods at a food pantry or to donate clothes than to actually learn about what’s going on in the community. We do have issues with food insecurity and food stability and our literacy levels need to be improved. She added, “There’s a lot that students can learn while they serve. This organization gives them an opportunity to do that.”

Last week, Hayes and the students returned to Feeding Kids/Reading Kids to help pack food boxes and books that will be distributed to 120 families before Thanksgiving. All the food and books are donated, and everything is accomplished by volunteers. There are no paid staff, and monetary donations are used to purchase food.

Molly Brownlee, a volunteer with Feeding Kids and Reading Kids, showed the �۶�ֱ�� students what needed to be done. “I love that �۶�ֱ�� does so much with our community here in Cleveland County,” she praised. “It is a good way to involve our community with the students and the students with us, and I think it’s a great partnership in all aspects.”

Preston Teel, of Raleigh, and Ashton Brunson of Sumter, S.C., helped tape the boxes that would hold the food. Teel said he liked getting out into the community and doing things with his friends in the UNIV 111 class. “It makes all of us really happy that we are helping people,” he affirmed.

Brunson agreed, “It is always good to give back. Growing up my grandmother was a teacher and she would always bring home books. It benefits your education.”

Keira Yurashek from Frisco, Texas, and Ava Pezzimenti, of New York, sorted and portioned out the bulk food supplies. “To give to those in need is really important,” Yurashek asserted. “I’m learning that there is a lot more people who need help than we really realize.”

Pezzimenti added, “I think it’s nice they give food and books. It’s expanding little kids’ horizons. Obviously everyone needs food, but you also need an education.”

In addition to preparing the boxes that will be delivered to families, the GWU students packed large boxes of books that will be given away on Nov. 23 at 4 p.m. at the , served in six locations across the county. Anyone is welcome to come and eat and/or volunteer at one of the following locations:

Jefferson Park, Buffalo Street, Shelby.
Holly Oak Park, 809 Holly Oak Road, Shelby.
Mt. Calvary Community Life Center, 1205 Northside Drive, Shelby.
Hope Community Church, 1114 S. Lafayette St., Shelby.
First Baptist Lawndale, 129 Douglas St., Lawndale, N.C.
Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church, 235 A.W. Black St., in Waco.

For more information about volunteering or donating, contact .

Learn more about �۶�ֱ��’s support of Feeding Kids/Reading Kids.

The post �۶�ֱ�� Students Help Pack Thanksgiving Food Boxes and Books for Families in Need appeared first on �۶�ֱ�� University.

�۶�ֱ�� Receives One of 12 Grants for Faculty-Student STEM Mentoring

Office of University Communications — Mon, 12 Sep 2022 15:33:51 +0000

North Carolina Independent Colleges and Universities Awards $25,000 to Enhance Tutoring Programs

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—�۶�ֱ�� University’s Student Success Division has received a three-year grant totaling $25,000 from (NCICU). The N.C. GlaxoSmithKline Foundation provided the funds to establish faculty-student STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering or Math) mentoring programs, and NCICU awarded grants to 12 member institutions. The programs are designed to improve student retention and graduation rates among first generation college students, women, and students of color majoring in a STEM field.

“We are grateful for this new grant support from the NCICU, as it gives us the chance to do some innovative things in support of our first-generation students,” explained GWU President William Downs. “We know that students and employers are increasingly interested in STEM skills, and �۶�ֱ�� is intentionally stepping up to meet that demand.”

Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Karen Aubrey said the award will enhance and strengthen �۶�ֱ��’s tutoring programs. “I’m thrilled and grateful that we’ve been chosen out of a few NCICU schools to receive this grant,” she praised. “It will aid us in our mentoring efforts in STEM areas that students often find challenging, and it will provide us with more avenues to support our students and better ensure their success in their studies. The award is affirmation of the power of combining a compelling idea with a need that exists, all to offer a solution to support a worthwhile goal.”

In addition to meeting one-on-one with students, peer mentors and staff will learn how to create video tutorials that can provide on-demand refreshers whenever students need to review a subject. The mentors will also learn how to produce two-minute video critiques of their mentees’ projects or papers.

The grant will also be used by faculty in health sciences to incorporate videos to help students master difficult concepts, such as science and math/dosage calculations. Funds will also support a student math tutor who could assist with dimensional analysis and calculations.

Student Success will also establish a new mentoring program to target probationary students. This initiative will be a structured program required for all students on academic probation. Students will be registered for a 14-week program that will combine in-person and online success mentoring. The focus will be on setting goals for academics as well as personal and career.

�۶�ֱ�� University is North Carolina’s recognized leader in private, Christian higher education. A Carnegie-Classified Doctoral/Professional University, GWU is home to six professional schools, 14 academic departments, 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.

The post �۶�ֱ�� Receives One of 12 Grants for Faculty-Student STEM Mentoring appeared first on �۶�ֱ�� University.

�۶�ֱ�� First-Year Students Begin Literacy Project with Lasting Impact

Office of University Communications — Thu, 16 Sep 2021 12:59:18 +0000

Katie Hartley’s UNIV 111 Class Places Little Free Library at Boiling Springs Town Park

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Students enrolled in University Life (UNIV 111) at �۶�ֱ�� didn’t expect to dig holes or mix concrete as part of the course, which is designed to help first-year students balance academic achievement and personal growth. However, while focusing on time management and critical thinking skills, the students develop community by joining in a service-learning project. When their teacher is Instruction Librarian Katie G. Hartley, it follows that their volunteer activity is related to books and reading.

Hartley is teaching her first �۶�ֱ�� UNIV 111 class this semester. She’s enjoyed the experience and was excited to guide the students through their semester service project: Building and placing a Little Free Library at the Boiling Springs Town Park.

“I’ve wanted to do a little library for a while, because it’s such a great enrichment project for any community,” Hartley affirmed. “It’s something tangible that they can go by and visit and see people interact with it. It was great to see so many of the students go above and beyond with their involvement. My student with the broken foot got down on the floor and was painting the bottom of the library. Also, watching the guys try to figure out the best way to dig a hole (for the library post) was a great experience that will stay with me forever.”

The boys took turns using a hole digger, shovel and pick to carve out a hole deep enough for the pole. Other students mixed the concrete to pour in the hole, helped hold the library in place while the concrete set, and put dirt and mulch back around the post.

The �۶�ֱ�� library box will be registered with the non-profit and placed on its online map. The concept is simple: Take a book, leave a book. Some take more books, and some leave more. Hartley said through an agreement with the Boiling Springs Town Council, her classes will provide upkeep on the box every year. The town owns the space, and her students will maintain the books and the actual library unit.

Boiling Springs Town Manager Justin Longino watched the students install the library. “It’s going to be a great addition to our park,” he noted. “People who are visiting the park or just walking by can come up here and grab a book. We are excited about partnering with the University. It’s something small, but a great thing to partner on.”

One requirement of the Little Free Library Association is that recycled materials are used to build the box. Hartley said she went dumpster diving in an area where there was a new build to find the post, wood, glass, shingles and other items needed.

While learning about college life, the first-year students embraced the Little Free Library project. Lexi McCall, of Morganton, N.C., said she liked doing a project that would be helpful to people. Elijah Foust, of High Point, N.C., wanted to include a fantasy book in the assortment and was also interested to see the completed project and people using it.

Oscar Vargas, of Bound Brook, N.J., was hoping to choose an informational, how-to book for the collection. “I’ve had (a Little Free Library) in the town where I am from, and I’ve seen it work for people who couldn’t afford to have books,” he said.

Janelle Dupont, of Huntersville, N.C.,
chose a Stuart Little book
for the GWU Little Free Library.

Janelle Dupont of Huntersville, N.C., compared the library project to a community garden she did in high school. “It was a place where people could communicate, get to know each other and bond over whether you were picking stuff for a recipe or flowers,” she related. “I think this is a great way to be a part of the community.”

As Dupont looked at the finished project—a red and black box in the shape of a schoolhouse decorated with bulldogs and paw prints—she declared, “I think we did a really good job with it. We can spread happiness to kids. I got a ‘Stuart Little’ book, because that was my favorite growing up.”

Samori Greenidge, of Bermuda, chose a funny children’s book for the library. He was also proud of what the class had accomplished. “I like art and I like to paint; it was definitely fun painting that,” he acknowledged. “The more important part of it, is the books that are going to be in there for the kids who come to the playground.”

The first Little Free Library book-sharing box was built in 2009 in Wisconsin by Todd H. Bol. It was a tribute to his mother, a teacher who loved to read. He filled it with books and put it on a post in his front yard. His neighbors and friends loved it, so he built several more and gave them away. Now, there are 100,000 registered Little Free Libraries in all 50 states and 108 countries, from Argentina to Zambia.

Samori Greenidge, of Bermuda,
chose a funny children’s book.

More than 165 million books have been shared, increasing book access for readers of all ages and backgrounds. Todd Bol passed away in 2018 from complications of pancreatic cancer. He was dedicated to Little Free Library’s mission and was known for saying, “I really believe in a Little Free Library on every block and a book in every hand. I believe people can fix their neighborhoods, fix their communities, develop systems of sharing, learn from each other, and see that they have a better place on this planet to live.”

Located in the North Carolina foothills, �۶�ֱ�� University is a private, Christian, liberal arts university. �۶�ֱ�� emphasizes a strong student-centered experience and rigorous academics to prepare students to become effective leaders within the global community. Ignite your future at �۶�ֱ��.edu.

The post �۶�ֱ�� First-Year Students Begin Literacy Project with Lasting Impact appeared first on �۶�ֱ�� University.