Gardner-Webb Online Archives - �۶�ֱ�� University

�۶�ֱ�� University and Mitchell Community College Launch Strategic Partnerships

Office of University Communications — Tue, 03 Feb 2026 18:13:32 +0000

Agreements Expand Degree Access and Nursing Pathways

�۶�ֱ�� President Nate Evans

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—�۶�ֱ�� University and Mitchell Community College (MCC) in Statesville, N.C., have announced two landmark partnership agreements designed to streamline the transfer process and provide high-level educational opportunities for students in Iredell County and the surrounding regions. These agreements, signed in late December 2025, establish the “Bulldog Bound” direct-entry admission program and a comprehensive “Bridge to Professional Advancement in Nursing” pathway.

�۶�ֱ�� President Nate Evans commented on the impacts of the partnership with MCC. “�۶�ֱ�� is proud to partner with Mitchell Community College to build stronger pathways for students to thrive,” Evans affirmed. “These agreements remove barriers, streamline transfer, and create high-impact opportunities, especially in the critical area of nursing and healthcare leadership. Together, we are investing in students and strengthening the future workforce of our region.”

Mitchell Community College President
Dr. Tim Brewer

Mitchell Community College President Dr. Tim Brewer, added, “At Mitchell Community College, our mission is to provide equitable access to affordable, high-quality learning experiences that lead to social and economic mobility for our students. These new partnerships with �۶�ֱ�� University exemplify that commitment by creating clear, seamless pathways for our students to achieve their highest academic and professional goals. By establishing the Bulldog Bound direct-entry program and the nursing bridge to advanced degrees, we are providing the necessary resources for our learners to thrive, while ultimately empowering our students’ futures and the communities we serve.”

Details and benefits of the two agreements are outlined below.

Bulldog Bound: A Direct-Entry Admission Program

The Bulldog Bound program provides a direct-entry pathway for currently enrolled MCC students who intend to transfer to GWU after completing their associate degree. This co-admission initiative is open to students pursuing an Associate of Arts (AA), Associate of Science (AS), Associate of Arts in Teacher Preparation (AATP), Associate of Fine Arts (AFA), or Associate in Applied Science (AAS).

Key benefits of the program include:

Guaranteed Admission: Participating students who meet GPA and MCC graduation requirements and �۶�ֱ�� admissions criteria are guaranteed admission to �۶�ֱ�� University.
Early Access: Students receive information regarding financial aid, registration, and orientation early in the transition process.
No Application Fees: There is no fee to participate in the Bulldog Bound program.
Reverse Transfer: A process is in place for students who matriculate to GWU prior to completing their associate degree, allowing them to finish their MCC credential by combining credits from both institutions.

Bridge to Professional Advancement in Nursing

Recognizing the critical need for advanced healthcare professionals, the Bridge to Professional Advancement in Nursing agreement provides a seamless ADN-to-DNP (Associate Degree in Nursing to Doctor of Nursing Practice) pathway. Students accepted into Mitchell’s ADN program are dually accepted into the Hunt School of Nursing at �۶�ֱ��.

This pathway allows nursing students to progress from their initial associate degree directly through to master’s and doctoral-level programs, including:

Davis RN-to-BSN.
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with concentrations in Education, Administration, or a Dual MSN/MBA.
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) for Family Nurse Practitioners or Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners.
Nursing students in this bridge program also benefit from waived application fees and a coordinated advising process between both institutions.

About Mitchell Community College

is a public, community-focused institution that provides equitable access to affordable, high-quality learning experiences. Committed to student success and lifelong learning, the college offers programs that emphasize practical skills and foundational knowledge to lead students toward diverse career pathways.

About �۶�ֱ�� University

�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. Become More at .

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Gardner‑Webb University Celebrates 20 Years of Musical Leadership from Tim Hudson

Office of University Communications — Thu, 08 Jan 2026 17:19:54 +0000

Alumni Join Masterclasses, Recitals, and Concert for the Public to Honor the Associate Professor who Helps Students Become More on Stage and Beyond

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—�۶�ֱ�� Associate Professor Tim Hudson has played with major orchestras, brass ensembles and renowned music artists on stages all over the world. Through his mentorship and instruction, GWU students have developed their talents to become outstanding composers, teachers and performers. They have played on Broadway, at the Met, and with top-tier orchestras, like the Houston Symphony.

In celebration of his 20th year at �۶�ֱ�� University, 10 of his former students, all GWU alumni, are returning to the University for Tim Hudson Day on Thursday, Jan. 15. Musicians are invited to attend the day of masterclasses, rehearsals, and recitals. The program begins at 9 a.m. with light refreshments and fellowship. Then, at 7 p.m., the public is invited to a recital in Dover Chapel.

Hudson is a Yamaha Performing Artist, Summit Recording Artist, founding member of Carolina Brass and in 2015, joined The Rodney Marsalis Philadelphia Big Brass. He remains deeply devoted to guiding Gardner‑Webb students, even as he sustains an active and demanding performance career. “Prof. Hudson’s dedication to his students over the past two decades has shaped not only skilled musicians but thoughtful artists who carry his lessons with them in all they do,” praised Dr. Aaron Rice, associate professor and chair of the �۶�ֱ�� Department of Music. “We’re grateful for his commitment to excellence and for the lasting impact he continues to make in our musical community.”

Hudson has played with the Charleston Symphony since 2017. In the past, he performed with professional orchestras in the U.S. and abroad under world class conductors, including Lorin Maazel, Yoel Levi, Leonard Slatkin, Grant Llewellyn, and others. He has held the principal trumpet position with the Knoxville Symphony (Tenn.), Chamber Orchestra of Northern New York, New England Philharmonic, Symphony Orchestra of the State of Mexico, Chamber Orchestra of the Triangle, and the N.C. Opera and Ballet Orchestras. Hudson is a graduate of Indiana University, New England Conservatory of Music, and UNC-Greensboro.

Over the past 30 years, Hudson has appeared with pop/jazz artists such as Ray Charles, The Temptations, Manhattan Transfer, Neil Sedaka, Tony Bennett, Andrea Bocelli, Branford Marsalis, Mannheim Steamroller, Kenny Rogers, Mike Cross, Bobby Vinton, The Moody Blues, Chuck Mangione, Marvin Hamlisch, Josh Groban, Idina Menzel, Doc Severinsen and Dizzy Gillespie.

GWU Alumni Trumpeters and Ensemble Members

From left, Dr. Michael Brotherton, Kevin Clary, and Dr. Robbie Collins

From left, Ben Davis, Adam Moxley-White, Jon McClay, and Anthony Lacivita

From left, Garrett Chitwood, Brandon Taylor, and Christina Hagle

Joining Hudson for his special day are GWU alumni, including members of the GWU Alumni Trumpet Ensemble, a group that were in the finals of The National Trumpet Competition for many years. They are:

Dr. Robbie Collins, who has a Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA) from the University of Kentucky and teaches trumpet, brass chamber music, and music theory at North Greenville University. Collins frequently serves as guest principal trumpet with the South Carolina Philharmonic and has appeared with ensembles, including the Wilmington Symphony Orchestra, North Carolina Baroque Orchestra, Lexington Philharmonic, Knoxville Symphony Orchestra, Mantrazos Philharmonic (Greece), and the Cincinnati Symphony and Opera herald trumpet ensembles.
Garrett Chitwood, an educator with Cleveland County schools, currently teaching at Burns Middle School. He is a freelance professional trumpet player.
Brandon Taylor, director of bands at East Gaston High School in Mount Holly, N.C., currently in his 10th year of teaching. East Gaston ensembles have consistently earned high ratings and have maintained superior ratings for over five consecutive years at South Central District Bandmasters Association (SCDBA) Music Performance Adjudication. Under Taylor’s leadership, the marching band has earned multiple Grand Champion titles and First Place Caption Awards at North Carolina Bandmasters Association Marching Band Competitions. He was named East Gaston High School Teacher of the Year for 2023–2024 and was also recognized as the school’s STAR Teacher during that same year.
Christina Hagle, a recording artist for Resurrection Records.
Dr. Michael Brotherton, who has a DMA from Northern Colorado University and is based in Colorado. He is teaching at Furman University for the 2026 Spring Semester. Brotherton previously won the solo division, graduate school level, of the National Trumpet Competition, and is principal trumpet of the Longmont Symphony Orchestra. He has also performed with Colorado Bach Ensemble, Opera Colorado, Boulder Symphony, Boulder Philharmonic, Boulder Opera, Fort Collins Symphony and others.
Anthony Lacivita, a freelance trumpet performer and educator based in Savannah, Ga. He earned his Master of Music degree in trumpet performance from the University of North Carolina School of the Arts.
Jon McClay has a Master of Music from the University of North Carolina School of the Arts, and is a professional player.
Adam Moxley-White, who has a Master of Music, teaches applied brass, and electronic music at Cape Fear Community College in Wilmington, N.C. In 2023, Moxley-White co-founded the Jasmine Duo, that features him on vocals and trumpet with Jake Beamer on the piano. They perform regularly around Wilmington at venues such as: The Blind Elephant, Luna Caffè, Coco Pipa and Ports of Call Bistro.
Kevin Clary, director of bands at Kings Mountain Middle School, and a highly sought-after published composer and arranger, as well as trumpeter with the Black Coffee Quartet. His concert band works are published through Alfred Music and 8th Note Publications, and he has been commissioned to write new concert band music for ensembles ranging from fifth-grade beginners to collegiate wind ensembles.
Ben Dawkins has spent the last nine years in the active-duty Army Bands. Promoted to the rank staff sergeant, he is stationed at Fort Jackson with the 282D Army Band, where he serves as squad leader, training Noncommissioned Officer in Charge, and bugler for the 282D Band.

Auxiliary aids will be made available to persons with disabilities upon request 10 working days prior to the event. Please call 704-406-4270 or email disabilityservices@gardner-webb.edu with your request.

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Alpha Sigma Lambda Honors �۶�ֱ��’s Outstanding Adult Scholars

Office of University Communications — Wed, 19 Nov 2025 19:17:24 +0000

Induction Ceremony Recognizes 17 Students for Academic Excellence, Integrity, and Leadership

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—�۶�ֱ�� University’s Gamma Beta Upsilon Chapter of Alpha Sigma Lambda Honor Society recently inducted 17 students. They were honored for their academic achievements, excellent character, and civic responsibility. Dr. Wendy Athens, director of Academic Innovation and Digital Learning and Chapter Councilor, led the ceremony. �۶�ֱ�� senior Peter Moore provided music for the program.

Alumna and Alpha Sigma Lambda Recipient Amy S. Giles
was the featured speaker.

The featured speaker was Amy S. Giles, a �۶�ֱ�� alumna and Alpha Sigma Lambda recipient. She graduated in May 2025 with her bachelor’s degree in elementary education. She is a second-grade teacher at H.H. Beam Elementary School in Gastonia, N.C. She shared about her academic journey and career, and offered advice to the inductees.

Dr. Erin Cook, assistant professor and chair of the Department of Public Service, led in the Alpha Sigma Lambda ritual. She explained the meaning of the Greek letters, which form the honor society’s motto, “First in Scholarship and Leadership.”

The Alpha Sigma Lambda National Honor Society was established in 1946 to honor superior scholarship and leadership in adult students. It is not only the oldest, but also the largest chapter-based honor society for full and part-time adult students. Today, with chapters at over 250 colleges and universities throughout the United States, Alpha Sigma Lambda recognizes the special achievements of adult students who accomplish academic excellence while facing competing interests of family, work, and community.

For non-traditional students, the Society stands as an inspiration for continued scholastic growth, a builder of pride through recognition and an invitation to associate with similarly motivated students. For the chapter institution, the Society serves as a vehicle for imparting appreciation for adult students’ academic achievements and contributions.

New members were pinned by their faculty sponsors.

After each new member was introduced and pinned by their faculty sponsor, Assistant Provost Dr. Greg Pillar congratulated the students and commended their dedication and perseverance. “Your induction tells the world that your excellence is not accidental,” he stated. “It is the result of effort—sustained, repeated, often silent effort, over long stretches of time.”

Pillar also challenged the students to lead with integrity and curiosity. “Carry forward the habits and character that brought you here,” he encouraged. “Let your curiosity stay alive. Let your humility grow deeper. Let your example continue to illuminate possibilities for others. And continue doing the quiet work that excellence requires, because those daily choices, those steady, small, persistent acts, are what shape a life of purpose and possibility.”

Honorary Members

Faculty and staff who support and foster the academic success of adult learners were recognized as honorary members. These included:

Dr. Jessica Ivey, director of Hunt School of Nursing.
Dr. Anita Sanders, Assistant Professor, College of Education.
Casey Stafford, Senior Success Coach.

New Alpha Sigma Lambda Members Inducted During the Ceremony and their sponsors

Melissa Huss Crespo, of Cherryville, N.C., accounting, Dr. Angelina Smith.
Margaret Davis, of Gastonia, N.C., Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Jennifer Costello.
Ashley Frazier, of Wilkesboro, N.C., elementary education, Dr. Anita Sanders.
Peyton Margaret Hall, of Shelby, N.C., Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Nicole Beaver.
Erlinda Hernandez Valdovinos, of Charlotte, birth to kindergarten, Dr. Anita Sanders.
Kristi Houston, of Lawndale, N.C., Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Nicole Beaver.
Hannah M. Orr, of Shelby, N.C., Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Dr. Jessica Ivey.
Brittany Taylor Parker, of Gastonia, N.C., RN-BSN, Jennifer Costello.

Members Inducted in Absentia

Victoria Biester, of Harrisburg, N.C., cybersecurity.
Courtney J. Bustamante, of Inman, S.C., Bachelor of Science in Nursing.
Lovern Y. Eastman, of Charlotte, N.C., Bachelor of Science in Nursing.
Sylvia J. Ford, of Gastonia, N.C., Bachelor of Science in Nursing.
Misty Gentry, of Winston-Salem, elementary education.
Jessica Michelle Greene, of Mooresboro, elementary education.
Kathy Rena C. Jaynes, Newland, N.C., Bachelor of Science in Nursing.
Morgan Shew, of Lenoir, N.C., Human Services.
Brett Charles White, of Rutherfordton, N.C., Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing.

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Finish Your Bachelor’s with New Gardner-Webb Online University Studies Program

Office of University Communications — Thu, 26 Jun 2025 18:50:09 +0000

Create Your Personalized Path to Complete Your Bachelor of Arts or Science Degree

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—The National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) reports that individuals with a bachelor’s degree earn 59% more annually than those with a high school diploma. Finishing your degree can increase earnings and opportunity. For example, in 2022, the median annual income for those with a bachelor’s degree was $66,600 versus $41,800 for those who completed high school as their highest level of attainment.

Now, �۶�ֱ�� University Online can help. Beginning in August with the 2025 Fall Semester, �۶�ֱ�� will offer the University Studies degree. This program is specifically designed for learners who have accumulated a substantial number of credits and need a streamlined pathway to a degree.

Professor and Dean of College of Arts and Sciences Dr. Robert Prickett explains the purpose for offering this new program. “The University Studies degree recognizes that learning happens in many different ways and places,” he related. “We’re meeting students where they are in their educational journey and providing them with a flexible, rigorous pathway to complete their bachelor’s degree. This isn’t just about checking boxes—it’s about helping students integrate their diverse experiences into a meaningful credential that opens doors to their future goals and plans.”

Students must have at least 60 credit hours to enter the program. They may earn a Bachelor of Arts or a Bachelor of Science degree. Tailored to their accumulated learning, the University Studies degree allows students to develop skills and abilities that qualify them to reach their career goals. Each student creates a personalized path to the finish with the help of a team of �۶�ֱ�� staff focused on student success.

�۶�ֱ��’s highly-qualified expert professors will help students connect prior learning and future plans to achieve essential learning outcomes. In this fully online program, students will use multidisciplinary perspectives to synthesize facts, ideas, and information to independently solve problems. They will also communicate to a variety of stakeholders using written, verbal, visual, or digital skills.

The BA/BS University Studies is perfect for students with a higher number of completed credit hours, transfer students, and military-affiliated students. After in-depth career coaching, the plan of study—which meets bachelor-level rigor requirements—is developed between the program coordinator, success coach/advisor, and the student. Minors are encouraged as means of communicating concentrations within the degree. The last 30 credits must be completed at �۶�ֱ��. The student will graduate from the College of Arts and Sciences and may take online coursework from any of �۶�ֱ��’s colleges and schools (with the exception of selective entry programs such as nursing).

Enterprising students who want to take their degree to the next level may also qualify for the Accelerated Master’s Program (AMP), which allows them to also complete a master’s degree at undergraduate rates.

Learn more about the University Studies Degree.

Ready to enroll? Contact Admissions at admissions@gardner-webb.edu or call 704-405-4000.

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 Online Programs in Nursing, Business, Education and College of Arts and Sciences Start on May 27

Office of University Communications — Tue, 22 Apr 2025 14:51:21 +0000

Switching to Online Classes Allows Junior Sydnie Hay to Finish her Undergraduate Degree and Work on Master’s in Business Administration

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Through �۶�ֱ�� University Online Undergraduate programs, earning a bachelor’s degree is affordable and flexible. With several start dates during the year, students can choose when to begin and determine how many hours to take.

The next start date for various accredited programs is May 27. The new bachelor’s program in Exceptional Children Education (ECE) begins on this date, along with other programs in nursing, business, education, public service, and cybersecurity.

At �۶�ֱ��, programs are taught by experienced educators with the online student’s needs in mind. Each student has access to career services, the Office of Christian Life and Service, disability resources, financial aid, library, tutoring, and technology services. In addition, students are paired with a success coach to answer questions along the way.

Sydnie Hay switched to online classes when circumstances changed for her family. “When I lost my mom at the beginning of my junior year at �۶�ֱ��, I thought I was going to have to abandon my studies completely to move home and take care of my two younger siblings,” she related. “Then, I learned about the Online Undergraduate Program and how smooth the transition was. I have been able to focus on my studies at the same time that I’m taking care of my siblings. I can do school around our schedule, and I find the online courses to be just as fulfilling.”

Hay will graduate with her Bachelor of Science in business management in May. Because she is dual-enrolled in the Advanced Master’s Program, she will finish her Master of Business Administration at the beginning of next year.

“I have had nothing but wonderful support from my professors and my academic advisor, Nicole Taylor, who helped me every step of the way,” Hay asserted. “This included scheduling as well as helping me graduate a semester earlier.”

The programs listed below start on May 27; Contact Enrollment Development Officers at (704) 406-2550 or email admissions@gardner-webb.edu to discuss next steps.

Nursing:

Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Davis RN-BSN)

Business:

Accounting
Healthcare Management
Management
Management Information Systems
Marketing

Education:

Birth-Kindergarten Education
Elementary Education
Elementary Education or Teacher Assistants to Teachers
Exceptional Children Education

Mathematics and Computer Science:

Cybersecurity

Public Service:

Criminal Justice Administration
Homeland Security Administration
Human Services

Learn more here.

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Gardner-Webb Online Programs in Nursing, Cybersecurity, Human Services, Homeland Security and Criminal Justice Start March 7

Office of University Communications — Fri, 21 Feb 2025 15:13:53 +0000

Earn Your Bachelor’s Degree from Experienced Educators in Flexible Format

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Obtaining a bachelor’s degree through Gardner-Webb Online offers students access to the University’s highly-qualified professors from wherever they are. Aimee Burgess, of Simpsonville, S.C., earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing in December 2024 through the Davis RN-BSN online program. Being out-of-state and online was never a problem for her. “They were so responsive, providing great feedback on assignments and always available by email, phone, or Zoom when I had questions,” she shared.

Classes for the Davis RN-BSN program and programs in cybersecurity, homeland security, human services and criminal justice in the College of Arts and Sciences will start on March 7. Graduates with these degrees have the skills that are in high demand. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in professional, scientific, and technical services is projected to increase in the next 10 years by 10.5%, more than double the 4.2% growth rate for total wage and salary employment.

Dr. Robert Prickett

The faculty in the College of Arts and Sciences and Hunt School of Nursing are dedicated to preparing students to enter these fields. College of Arts and Sciences Dean Dr. Robert Prickett observed, “What truly sets GWU Online and our programs apart is our unwavering commitment to student success, combining the faculty’s academic rigor with their compassion and personalized support.”

He continued, “We want students to not only complete the program but excel beyond the program. Our faculty and staff go above and beyond. They meet the students where they are (academically, professionally, personally) and provide not only the academics in the class but the support outside of the class, as well. They ensure success is possible.”

Ashley Triplett, who lives in Caldwell County, N.C., earned her bachelor’s in human services in December 2024 through the online program. She deeply appreciated the academic experience and personal attention she received from her professors. “The most meaningful aspect of this program is the deep dive you take learning about yourself, your areas of improvement, areas of understanding, and areas where growth is needed,” she observed. “This program gave me a broader understanding of my role as a helping professional and how best to continue self-growth while helping others. GWU encourages each student, whether on campus or online, to grow in Christ while obtaining a higher educational degree.”

Dr. Erin Montgomery

Dr. Erin Montgomery, assistant professor of nursing and chair of the Davis RN-BSN program, notes that the faculty’s goal is to engage with students. “At GWU, faculty are real people who genuinely care about student success,” she affirmed. “In the Davis RN-BSN program, faculty prioritize meaningful connections, offering frequent interaction, personalized feedback, and prompt responses to student questions. At GWU, nursing faculty stay actively engaged in clinical practice, ensuring our RN-BSN curriculum is current, relevant, and grounded in real-world experience. We focus on meaningful learning—no busy work, no wasted time—just practical, high-impact education that prepares you for success. And the results speak for themselves.”

Burgess encouraged anyone considering earning their BSN to enroll in �۶�ֱ��’s program. “If you’re feeling apprehensive, especially if it’s been a while since you were in school, I want to tell you: it’s 100% doable,” she affirmed. “Like me, I graduated with my associate degree in 1997, before all this new technology, like Blackboard and Zoom even existed, and I was terrified to go back. But from my very first eight weeks, I knew I’d made the right choice.”

Burgess praised the instructors, both in nursing and general education, who were responsive and provided great feedback on assignments. “And this support continued throughout the entire program until I graduated,” she stated. “But the biggest difference? The faculty’s genuine commitment to student success, and their shared faith in Jesus, truly made all the difference.”

Programs starting March 7

College of Arts and Sciences

Cybersecurity

Develop the skills and knowledge to help you master the fundamentals of identifying and protecting against security threats and organizational risks. The curriculum is based on the standards of the National Security Agency and will prepare graduates for the professional certification tests in the field. Learn more here.

Human Services

Obtain a solid foundation in the principles, theories, and skills needed to provide services as a human services practitioner and helping professional. By the end of the program, students will have the ability to relate to consumers on multiple levels. The curriculum consists of courses and experiences so that a graduate will have the knowledge and skill to perform entry-level work in public, not-for-profit, and private settings. Learn more here.

Homeland Security Administration

Gain insight into nature and complexity of current national and international public safety issues and the critical need for all law enforcement levels of communication and cooperation to address evolving transnational crime. Interrelated topics include intelligence gathering, global threats, and terrorist groups, that dominate 21st Century law enforcement concerns on the local, state, and federal level, and are critically important to our communities and nation. Learn more here.

Criminal Justice Administration

Study cybercrime, homeland security, terrorism and intelligence, while incorporating science and technology into investigative strategies. �۶�ֱ�� provides a student-centered program of study based on current law enforcement, societal and political demands of criminal justice officers designed to meet the growing local, national, international law enforcement and homeland security concerns. Learn more here.

College of Health Sciences

Davis RN-BSN

Designed for registered nurses with an associate degree who desire to obtain their BSN. Emphasizing holistic healthcare grounded in Christian values, the curriculum focuses on clinical competence, therapeutic relationships, and social awareness. �۶�ֱ�� maintains productive partnerships with community healthcare facilities, providing students with valuable opportunities for service learning. Learn more here.

Contact Enrollment Development Officers at (704) 406-4000 or email admissions@gardner-webb.edu to discuss next steps.

Source: .

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Gardner-Webb Online Bachelor’s Programs in Preschool and Elementary Education Start in March

Office of University Communications — Thu, 13 Feb 2025 15:11:58 +0000

Experienced Educators Prepare Students to be Leaders in Their Profession

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—�۶�ֱ�� University Online offers bachelor’s programs in birth-kindergarten, elementary, and elementary education for teacher assistants. Courses are taught by educators who have practical experience teaching children in pre-K through sixth-grade classrooms. All three fully-online programs will start on March 7, and applications are being accepted now.

College of Education Dean and Professor Dr. Prince Bull described the College of Education faculty as knowledgeable, dedicated, and student-centered. He shared, “As a catalyst for sustainable change, the faculty has terminal degrees to prepare candidates to address the needs of diverse K-12 students across North Carolina.”

Graduates of the College of Education are prepared to become 21st-century leaders in every aspect of their profession, having effective communication skills that assure student learning. “We prepare candidates at different entry levels: full degrees, licensure only, and resident license teachers,” Bull noted. “To meet the demands of our candidates, we offer online, campus, and summer courses. Your best education journey awaits at �۶�ֱ�� University, where ‘excellence is our minimum standard.’”

Through coursework and experiential learning, the College of Education faculty strive to develop educators who are skilled in meeting the needs of children from birth to sixth-grade. �۶�ֱ��’s teacher candidates are knowledgeable, reflective, ethical and respect diversity.

A summary of each online program is below.

Bachelor of Science in Birth-Kindergarten Education
- Students will be prepared to teach in, administer, and direct early learning environments from ages birth to five. The program integrates a core set of pedagogy courses, clinical experiences, and practical applications of child development and early learning. Learn more here.

Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education
- Prepare to teach students in kindergarten through sixth grade. The curriculum offers instruction in a broad spectrum of topics, giving you the toolkit you’ll need to excel in the classroom. Discover more here.

Elementary Education for Teacher Assistants to Teachers
- Earn your degree and obtain teacher licensure in just five to seven academic semesters of fully-online coursework. The program is designed to meet the needs of teacher assistants who wish to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education. More information here.

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Online Programs in �۶�ֱ�� College of Business Start in March

Office of University Communications — Mon, 03 Feb 2025 17:22:09 +0000

Earn Your Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree from Experienced Educators in Flexible Format

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—The Godbold College of Business at �۶�ֱ�� University offers several online options to earn your bachelor’s or master’s degree from a top-tier private Christian university. Classes for master’s programs in three fields will begin on March 3, while online undergraduate programs in five areas are set to start on March 7.

College of Business Dean and Assistant Professor of Marketing Dr. Mischia Taylor emphasized why many students choose Gardner-Webb Online. “�۶�ֱ�� University is a special place that focuses on student success,” she asserted. “The University prides itself on developing relationships with its students and guiding them through their coursework and supporting them throughout their professional career.”

Master’s Programs

Affordable and flexible, the master’s programs develop the student’s understanding of key business functions such as accounting, economics and marketing. Courses are taught by faculty with expertise in their disciplines and a passion for student success. Offered fully online, students can select a 10-month accelerated path or complete one course at a time.

Amy Hodge

The quality of the course material in the business administration master’s program along with the experience of the faculty helped student Amy Hodge learn and retain important concepts. “I walked away with not just book knowledge but actual physical, practical knowledge that is ingrained in my thought processes now,” she shared.

Graduate Online Programs Starting on March 3:

Master of Accountancy (MACC)
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Master of Sport Management (MSPM)

Contact Enrollment Development Officers at (704) 406-4000 or email admissions@gardner-webb.edu to discuss next steps.

Discover more about graduate online programs here.

Nathalie Setzer

Bachelor’s Programs

Online bachelor programs allow learners to advance their education from wherever they are. Nathalie Setzer, of Newton, N.C., was impressed with �۶�ֱ�� University Online from her first meeting with enrollment staff. She is working on her bachelor’s in accounting with a minor in business management. “I was happy to learn about the online degree,” she asserted. “I could work and study; this is exactly what I was looking for. I’m fortunate to have had excellent teachers who were always there for me when I faced any difficulties. You can reach out to them via email or schedule a call, and they are more than happy to assist you. My Senior Success Coach was also there for me if I had any questions or problems.”

Undergraduate Online Programs Starting on March 7:

Accounting
Healthcare Management
Management
Management Information Systems
Marketing

�۶�ֱ�� is recognized nationally for academic excellence and experiential learning. In addition, each student receives advising through a success coach, support and mentoring, and has access to the Center for Personal and Professional Development, which offers assistance and tools for the job search process.

Each fully-accredited program is offered in eight-week terms and taught by experienced educators whose goal is helping students succeed. The format is convenient and flexible enabling students to balance work, life, family with pursuing their degree. Most importantly, �۶�ֱ��’s tuition is competitive at every price level with special incentives in place.

Contact Enrollment Development Officers at (704) 406-4000 or email admissions@gardner-webb.edu to discuss next steps.

Learn more about undergraduate online here.

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‘Mission in Action’: �۶�ֱ�� Human Services Students use Skills to Propose Nonprofit Ideas

Office of University Communications — Tue, 28 Jan 2025 14:30:50 +0000

Organizations Created by Students Show Their Commitment to Meeting Needs in The Community

Ready to Start Your Bachelor’s in Human Services? Apply before March 7

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—The final project in Dr. Erin Cook’s upper-level human services course, “Understanding Nonprofit Organizations,” requires her students to apply everything they learned during the semester. “They present to me a nonprofit they would like to start as if I were an investor in their organization,” explained Cook, assistant professor and program coordinator for human services. “This year’s group was absolutely outstanding.”

Students created organizations to tackle the needs that meant the most to them. The ideas included helping to rebuild a mountain community after Helene, starting a domestic violence advocacy group and developing a children’s group focused on deaf and hard of hearing kids. “I feel as if their work was �۶�ֱ��’s mission in action,” Cook affirmed. “This helps to show how the work in the classroom can make a major difference in the professional lives of the students and sets them up for making a positive impact in their community.”

Qualified students who are interested in serving their communities can begin their online bachelor’s in human services by applying before the next start date: March 7.

While completing her degree, December 2024 graduate Cynthia Chisholm was able to use information she learned in class to help her on the job as a program director and peer support specialist at Green Tree Peer Center. “I chose �۶�ֱ�� because it offered me the opportunity to fully complete my degree online,” she offered. “I appreciate the fact that although I am an off-campus student, I always had access to my professors. Any questions or concerns that I had were always addressed and answered promptly.”

Cynthia Chisholm, left, named her non-profit idea after her grandmother, Maggie.

The non-profit Chisholm proposed was Maggie’s House, a place that will provide a safe place and assistance to women and children who are experiencing domestic violence. “While at Maggie’s House, they will have the opportunity to regain control of their lives and be given the opportunity to further their education, learn new employable skills, meet with counselors, therapists, and be empowered and simply heal,” she described. “Along their journey, guests will have the opportunity to enter a financial literacy program that would assist them in saving money for a down payment on a new home for themselves and their children upon their exit from Maggie’s House.”

A survivor of domestic violence, Chisholm named her non-profit after her grandmother (Maggie), who gave her a safe place to stay when she needed to escape. “I am just thankful for an opportunity to share a piece of my dream with others that have a heart for helping,” she stated. “I hope that not only my non-profit comes to life but also all the other non-profit ideas as well.”

Emma Kate Harrison participates in various service organizations on campus. At left, she is leading a devotion, and at right, she poses with bags for foster children that were donated as part of a project she organized.

Emma Kate Harrison, a student who will graduate in May 2026, developed “Hope Haven: A Faith-Based Intensive Treatment House.” Her non-profit organization would provide therapeutic treatment in a supportive home environment. “This non-profit would have one young adult at a time come into the home (Hope Haven) for four to eight weeks, depending on their need, to have intensive treatment to foster their healing and treatment process,” Harrison explained. “While they are receiving this professional treatment, they will have in-home Christian volunteers, who have the role of ensuring their safety, showing them what a loving home looks like and intentionally encouraging their walk with Jesus.”

Harrison is involved in ministry opportunities at GWU and Venture Church in Dallas, N.C. She believes the church should support those who struggle with mental health issues. “I feel very strongly about bridging the gap between the church and mental health,” she asserted, “This is a way that I could facilitate people becoming unified in their efforts of helping other individuals.”

Jessica Bridges, a freelance ASL interpreter, created a non-profit to help Deaf and Hard of Hearing children and their families.

Another student in the class, Jessica Bridges also created a non-profit to solve a problem that she cares about. Bridges will finish her bachelor’s degree in human services in the summer and has already enrolled in �۶�ֱ��’s accelerated master’s program in public administration.

A freelance American Sign Language (ASL) interpreter, Bridges works mainly in education and also works part time for a Video Relay Service (VRS) company. “I love my job and working with the Deaf community,” she affirmed.

She chose to finish her bachelor’s degree through �۶�ֱ��’s online program, so that she could continue to work as an interpreter. “I found that GWU offered several online options, and when I reached out to discuss them with the advisors, they were so kind and knowledgeable,” Bridges related. “They helped me to figure out a plan that would work for me, especially as a non-traditional student. I chose human services because it aligns with my work as an interpreter. I wanted to learn more about creating resources for the Deaf community, specifically for Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DHH) children in public schools. I felt that a human services degree would allow me to explore those resources, and learn to work with other organizations to achieve my goals.”

The nonprofit she created, “The B.R.I.D.G.E,” is for DHH children and their families. This organization would help to bridge the gap in resources and support that typically occurs when DHH children are placed in public education settings. “Through my work as an ASL interpreter, I found that parents and teachers often lacked the resources that are needed to support their DHH students,” Bridges observed. “Children who are DHH often experience Language Deprivation Syndrome, which has become a big topic in the Deaf community. Since language is the bridge to how we connect with the world and those around us, it is imperative to build strong language foundations, as early as possible. Unfortunately, due to lack of resources, guidance and support, many of these kids will not have that opportunity. The nonprofit organization (NPO) I created seeks to change that, by partnering with families, the Deaf community, and educators.”

Bridges would like to see her nonprofit organization become a reality. It will take funding for technology and devices, learning materials and resource creation. Most of all, it will take tenacity on her part. “I would truly like to make this NPO a reality, and I have been building it in my mind for several years,” she acknowledged. “It will happen. I am grateful to Dr. Cook for her continued support and kindness. I appreciate all of the professors in the (human services) program, and I am so thankful that each of them has encouraged and supported me as I grow my skills.”

Learn more about Gardner-Webb Online.

Learn more about the Department of Public Service.

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Gardner-Webb Online Graduate and Undergraduate Programs to Start Soon

Office of University Communications — Wed, 09 Oct 2024 17:27:11 +0000

Nursing, Business, Public Service and Cybersecurity Open to Eligible Students

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—For more than two decades, �۶�ֱ�� University has offered online education. Through the years programs have expanded to 30 online undergraduate and graduate degrees.

When you choose �۶�ֱ��’s online program, you are more than a number, noted Director of Academic Innovation and Digital Learning, Dr. Wendy Athens.

“If you’re seeking a faith-based education where professors know you personally, consider �۶�ֱ�� University,” she asserted. “If you’re working/raising kids/etc., our online programs provide the flexibility of completing your education from wherever you are. You will graduate with a �۶�ֱ�� degree—we are here to support you! Our eight-week semesters provide multiple start times throughout the year.”

�۶�ֱ��’s faculty and staff are invested in helping you complete your degree, no matter how unique your situation. In addition to small class sizes and a faith-based education, other advantages of GWU Online:

Instructors have subject matter expertise.
Personalized advising.
Affordable.
Streamlined programs with career focus.
Accredited.
Accelerated master’s option in many programs.

For those interested in graduate studies, �۶�ֱ�� offers master’s degrees, doctorate programs and graduate certificates that are fully online and taught by the same accomplished faculty who teach on campus.

Online Programs with October Start Dates

Undergrad

Accounting: Oct 18.
Birth to Kindergarten Education: Oct 18.
Criminal Justice: Oct 18.
Cyber Security: Oct 18.
Elementary Education: Oct 18.
Healthcare Management: Oct 18.
Homeland Security: Oct 18.
Human Services: Oct 18.
Management/Business Administration: Oct 18.
Management Information Systems: Oct 18
Marketing: Oct 18.
Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing: Oct 18.

Graduate

Master of Business Administration: Oct 14.
Master of Science in Nursing: Oct 18.

Contact admissions@gardner-webb.edu, 704-406-4000, to get started on your degree.

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