GWU Commencement Archives - �۶�ֱ�� University

�۶�ֱ�� University Commencement Programs Celebrate Achievements of Over 500 Students

Office of University Communications — Fri, 08 May 2026 19:00:00 +0000

Alumnus and National Security Expert Patrick Woody Challenges Graduates to Stay ‘FIRED’ for Lifelong Growth and Service

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—�۶�ֱ�� University celebrated the achievements of over 500 graduates on May 8 in Lutz-Yelton Convocation Center. Traditional undergraduate students were honored at 9 a.m., with graduates from master’s and doctoral programs recognized at 2 p.m.

Each ceremony began with the ringing of a replica of the Liberty Bell. As America celebrates the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence this year, it is interesting to note the significance of this bell, which is used to begin all �۶�ֱ�� Commencement services, convocations and special assemblies. The bell was first rung in the fall of 1970 to inaugurate �۶�ֱ��’s first year as a senior college. The replica weighs 44 pounds and stands 15 inches high. It is one of a limited edition of 2,400 bells produced to mark the bicentenary of American Independence (1776-1976)—one for each month of the 200 years.

�۶�ֱ�� President Nate Evans welcomed graduates and their guests to begin both ceremonies. He recognized the accomplishments of the students and thanked parents, spouses, friends, and loved ones who supported them along the way. He also expressed gratitude for the �۶�ֱ�� faculty and staff for teaching, guiding, and mentoring students to achieve their goals.

Each commencement program also included remarks and greetings from GWU Chair of the Board of Trustees the Rev. Dr. M. Lamont Littlejohn Jr. He congratulated their success and challenged them to carry the values that define �۶�ֱ�� with them—to live “Pro Deo et Humanitate,” for God and Humanity.

During the undergraduate ceremony, Student Body President Andrea Stampone addressed her classmates, reflecting on the defining role of kindness and community in the Gardner‑Webb experience.

“My charge to you today is to carry this kindness into all walks of life that you may enter,” Stampone stated. “Treat people with kindness. Be a person who needs people. Be someone that runs to others when they need people, because these things make you a lucky person. Care deeply. Listen carefully. Love loudly. So go out into the world, and make that community special. Because it’s not that being a part of something special makes you special, but instead that something is special because you are a part of it.”

The featured speaker for both commencement ceremonies was Patrick Woody, a Gardner‑Webb 2003 alumnus and former student body president. He is founder and CEO of Point of Warning, a consulting firm that provides risk, intelligence, public policy, and organizational improvement services to government, private sector, and nonprofit organizations.

A cybersecurity professional with experience across the U.S. Intelligence Community—including the CIA, Department of Homeland Security, and National Counterterrorism Center—Woody directly advised multiple U.S. Presidents, White House leadership, Cabinet officials, and Congress on critical national security issues.

Woody received a Bachelor of Arts in history at �۶�ֱ��. He has a Master of Arts degree in international relations and comparative politics from George Mason University and doctoral work in international relations at the University of Maryland.

He shared that his speech included advice that he wished someone had given him when he graduated 23 years ago. “I’m going to talk to you about getting fired,” Woody explained. “Not from a job or a career, but from a mindset. It’s getting fired from the comfort of thinking that because you’ve achieved this milestone, you’ve arrived and there’s no more work to be done. I want to talk about a different way of looking at the future and your post-graduate life—one built around five principles that spell out the word ‘F-I-R-E-D.’ If you leave today with these principles, I promise you that the next chapters of your life will be the best ones.”

Woody described each guiding idea and closed with a short summary. “Fail—and let it teach you,” he reiterated. “Invest—in yourself, your future, and others. Reflect—so that you are steering and not just speeding. Educate yourself—always, relentlessly, joyfully. Dialogue—across every divide you encounter. Being ‘FIRED’ is not a setback. It is a posture. It is how you walk into every meeting, every relationship, every new chapter of your life—with humility, with purpose, and with the courage to keep growing.”

Beyond the commencement addresses, the ceremonies also featured special presentations and awards recognizing excellence, service, and remembrance within the Gardner‑Webb community.

Commencement Honors and Recognitions

Posthumous Degree Presentation

Before undergraduate students walked across the stage to receive individual recognition for their accomplishments, Evans took a moment to remember Isaiah Hughes, a valued member of the campus community whose academic journey was tragically cut short. Hughes was an accomplished student in the Godbold College of Business and destined for great success. Evans invited the Hughes family to join him on stage, and he conferred the Bachelor of Science degree in management information systems posthumously upon Isaiah Hughes.

Undergraduate Awards and Distinctions

During the morning ceremony, several awards were presented to recognize graduates for their exceptional achievements. Senior Scholastic Awards, were presented to the members of the graduating class who earned the highest grade point average during their terms of university study. The winners were:

Corrie Danielle Cloninger, Bachelor of Science in nursing.
Sara-Michael Jann, Bachelor of Science in biology.
Kaylee Faith Maynor, Bachelor of Science in nursing.
Madison Elizabeth Peek, Bachelor of Science in nursing.
Ava Vaughn Stratman, Bachelor of Science in exercise science.

The Most Outstanding Male and Female Graduate Awards were given to the members of the graduating class, who, judged by the faculty, best exemplify the qualities of leadership, citizenship and academic excellence.

The recipient of the Most Outstanding Female Graduate Award is Kylee A. Morris, who received a Bachelor of Science in biology. Morris began her studies at GWU in 2022 as the University’s third Tucker Scholar, an honor that includes full tuition, room and board for eight semesters. She was also crowned Miss GWU in 2025, and is a section leader in the marching band.

The recipient of the Most Outstanding Male Graduate Award is Paul M. McElearney, who earned a Bachelor of Arts in political science and international affairs. McElearney, former GWU student body president, served on the search committee for GWU’s 14th president. He is also a cadet captain in �۶�ֱ�� University Reserve Officers’ Training Corp (ROTC) detachment assigned under the Southern Guards Battalion.

The Gardner-Webb Online Scholastic Award is given at each commencement to the online student with the highest cumulative grade point average. The winners were:

Kayla Warren Griffin, Bachelor of Science in accounting.
Jennifer Abernathy Ruckman, Bachelor of Science in accounting.

Graduate Scholarship and Research Recognition

The afternoon ceremony featured the presentation of the Darlene J. Gravett Citizen Scholar Award, which recognizes graduate research with the potential to make a meaningful contribution to the improvement of society.

Dr. Sydney Brown, assistant provost of Academic Systems and Graduate Studies, presented the award to this year’s recipient, Dr. Brittany Hudgins-Graham. Brown noted that Hudgins-Graham exemplifies the purpose of the award in a powerful and timely way. Her work, “Forest Therapy for Mental Balance: A Christian Community Approach,” brings together mental health, community, and faith to address a growing need in our world today.

“What makes this project especially compelling is its focus on practice—creating accessible, community-based approaches that support well-being in real and tangible ways,” Brown observed. “Her work reminds us that research is not only about understanding problems, but about responding to them with care, creativity, and purpose. Dr. Hudgins-Graham’s work reflects the very spirit of this award—scholarship that serves others and strengthens communities.”

Videos of Friday’s commencement ceremonies are available on the and

�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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�۶�ֱ�� to Recognize Graduates from 2026 Academic Year

Office of University Communications — Wed, 29 Apr 2026 19:50:04 +0000

Commencement Ceremonies on May 8 will Celebrate Achievements of Over 500 Graduates

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—�۶�ֱ�� University will celebrate the achievements of over 500 graduates on May 8 in Lutz-Yelton Convocation Center. Traditional undergraduate students will be honored at 9 a.m., with graduates from master’s and doctoral programs recognized at 2 p.m.

“Commencement is one of the most meaningful days in the life of our University, as we celebrate the hard work, perseverance, and achievement of our graduates,” noted GWU President Nate Evans. “Each of these students leaves �۶�ֱ�� prepared not only for professional success, but to lead lives of purpose, service, and impact. We are proud of what they have accomplished and excited to see the difference they will make in their communities and beyond.”

Each ceremony will begin with the ringing of a replica of the Liberty Bell. As America marks the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence this year, the bell’s symbolism carries special meaning. It has long been used to open Gardner‑Webb commencement ceremonies, convocations, and special assemblies. The bell was first rung in the fall of 1970 to inaugurate Gardner‑Webb’s first year as a senior college.

The replica weighs 44 pounds and stands 15 inches high. It is one of a limited edition of 2,400 bells produced to mark the bicentenary of American Independence (1776-1976)—one for each month of the 200 years. The certificate of ownership states: “This is to certify that Bell No. 0395 was cast by order of �۶�ֱ�� College, Boiling Springs, N.C., at the Whitechapel Bell Foundry, London. This bell is to the scale of one-fifth the original Liberty Bell ordered from the same foundry by the Province of Pennsylvania in 1752, and was cast on the same site.”

Senior Scholastic awards will be presented to traditional undergraduate and online students, and doctoral candidates will receive their hoods. Evans will confer undergraduate and graduate degrees on all graduates.

Patrick Woody

The featured speaker, Patrick Woody, a Gardner‑Webb 2003 alumnus and former student body president, will bring the commencement address. He is founder and CEO of Point of Warning, a consulting firm that provides risk, intelligence, public policy, and organizational improvement services to government, private sector, and nonprofit organizations.

He later served in leadership roles at Twitter, Twitch, and Epic Games, where he became a recognized authority on combating online harms such as extremism, information integrity, child safety, and strategic partnerships. Before his time in government, Woody worked for the One Economy Corporation, using technology to improve the lives of individuals and communities facing poverty in the United States and abroad.

Woody has had the privilege of serving on the boards of directors for multiple organizations.

The ceremonies will also be available for live streaming on The University’s and channel.

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�۶�ֱ�� Recognizes Nearly 300 Graduates in 2025 Fall Commencement

Office of University Communications — Fri, 12 Dec 2025 19:13:36 +0000

Ceremony on Dec. 12 Awards Degrees and Honors Scholastic Achievements

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—�۶�ֱ�� University celebrated the achievements of nearly 300 graduates in Commencement Ceremonies on Dec. 12 at 9 a.m. in Lutz-Yelton Convocation Center. Students who completed the associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees during the 2025 Fall Semester were recognized.

�۶�ֱ�� President Nate Evans

�۶�ֱ�� President Nate Evans noted the significance of the event as he welcomed the graduates, their families and friends. “Commencement is always one of the most joyful days of the year because it reflects the very heart of our mission: Students pursuing their calling, growing in knowledge and character, and preparing to make a difference in the world,” he asserted. “And so, we gather today to celebrate you…and, perhaps most importantly…to honor the promise you carry forward from this moment and this place: the promise of a bright and rewarding future.”

Senior Scholastic awards were presented to traditional undergraduates:

Carley Brooke Lawter
Kalem Darius Griffin
Caitlin Mackenzie Hines
Jacob P. Jensen

The online senior scholastic awards were present to Tona Deann Marlow, who completed her degree in the fall semester, and Donna Denise Woody for the summer semester.

Doctoral candidates and those receiving their master’s degrees received their hoods. Evans conferred undergraduate and graduate degrees on all graduates.

Dr. Robert Canoy

The featured speaker was Dr. Robert Canoy, who served as dean of the �۶�ֱ�� M. Christopher White School of Divinity for 16 years. This semester, he taught part time and will retire on Dec. 31.

Canoy joined the School of Divinity faculty in 2000. Through the years, he led classes in Christian theology, Greek, eschatology, the Revelation of John, and The Ministry of Worship, a Doctor of Ministry seminar. In addition, Canoy regularly led study tours to Israel, Egypt, Jordan, Turkey, Greece, and Rome.

Canoy’s primary area of research is New Testament theology, having written articles and books on eschatology, and Eucharistic theology. He is the author of “Atonement in the Apocalypse: An Exposé of the Defeat of Evil.”

He served as pastor in Shelby, N.C., Maryland (in the Washington D.C. area), Iowa, Missouri, and Kentucky before returning to an academic career. His teaching experience began at Southern Baptist Theological Seminary as a doctoral student and then Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, Kansas City, Mo.

Canoy spoke about recognizing and celebrating new beginnings, and he offered examples—from biblical characters to historic figures and recent celebrities. “The Bible is an honest book filled with ‘begin-again’ stories, if I can use that phrase,” Canoy related. “That’s because life has always been about beginning again, over and over again, since each step that we take leads to the next step. And some steps that we take require some serious recalibration. Truth is, in this life there are no last steps.”

He discussed Simon Peter, who had boasted that he would never betray Jesus. “But he denied Jesus, not once, not twice, but three times, which Jesus had predicted,” Canoy observed. “But Peter ‘began again.’ He made a new start on the banks of the Sea of Galilee…Jesus gave him a new beginning, a fresh start, after his past failure.”

His list of famous “do-overs” included Thomas Edison, who failed more than 100 times before finding a filament that would sustain a light bulb, and Michael Jordan, who was famously cut from his high school basketball team before becoming one of the sport’s greatest players. Canoy ended with the most remarkable “begin-againer,” Jesus Christ. “He died at 33 before making the first of its kind—the greatest historical comeback ever—called resurrection,” Canoy stated.

Concluding his remarks, Canoy observed, “Graduation from �۶�ֱ�� University means being prepared for life’s ups and downs, highs and lows. Today’s commencement from GWU means that nothing is more important than knowing that God is all about getting us back up when we throw ourselves down or when life knocks us down. So, let us commence today to do even better tomorrow what we may have done well, or not so well yesterday, Pro Deo et Humanitate!”

Video of the commencement ceremony is available on The University’s and channel.

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�۶�ֱ�� to Recognize Graduates from 2025 Fall Semester

Office of University Communications — Mon, 24 Nov 2025 15:43:14 +0000

Commencement Ceremony on Dec. 12 will Celebrate Achievements of Nearly 300 Graduates

GWU President Nate Evans

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—�۶�ֱ�� University will celebrate the achievements of nearly 300 graduates on Dec. 12 at 9 a.m. in Lutz-Yelton Convocation Center. The commencement ceremony honors students who completed their degrees in the 2025 Fall Semester.

“Commencement is one of the most meaningful days in the life of our University,” affirmed GWU President Nate Evans. “It represents years of hard work, sacrifice, and perseverance by our students, along with the support of families, faculty, and staff who have walked alongside them. We are proud of every graduate crossing the stage and stepping forward into their calling.”

The speaker is Dr. Robert Canoy, who served as dean of the �۶�ֱ�� M. Christopher White School of Divinity for 16 years. This semester, Canoy taught part time and will retire on Dec. 31.

He joined the School of Divinity faculty in 2000. Through the years, he led classes in Christian theology, Greek, eschatology, the Revelation of John, and The Ministry of Worship, a Doctor of Ministry seminar. In addition, Canoy regularly led study tours to Israel, Egypt, Jordan, Turkey, Greece, and Rome.

Dr. Robert Canoy

Canoy has also served as interim pastor and guest teacher in churches across North Carolina, South Carolina, Maryland, Iowa, and Missouri. Canoy hails from Mississippi. He is married to Cynthia, and they are the parents of two adult sons and four grandchildren. His hobbies include hunting, woodworking, traveling, and working outdoors.

The 9 a.m. ceremony is also available for live streaming on The University’s and channel.

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�۶�ֱ�� Celebrates Achievements of Nearly 500 Graduates

Office of University Communications — Fri, 09 May 2025 03:05:43 +0000

University Awards its 25,000th Bachelor’s Degree During Spring Commencement Ceremony

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—�۶�ֱ�� University hosted its Spring Commencement Ceremony on Thursday, May 8, at 6:30 p.m. in Lutz-Yelton Convocation Center. Families and guests celebrated the achievements of nearly 500 students in traditional undergraduate, online, and graduate programs of study.

�۶�ֱ�� University Interim President Nate Evans welcomed everyone and noted the significant milestone that would be achieved in the course of the evening. “This very special graduation ceremony is the latest in the 120-year history of our distinguished institution,” Evans expressed. “And we are so pleased, so proud, and so excited that you are with us this evening to celebrate together! This year marks a special moment, we will be awarding our 25,000th bachelor’s degree during tonight’s ceremony.”

Evans continued, “To all of our graduates who are here and ready to receive your degrees, I offer you my personal congratulations. You’ve accomplished something that only a small percentage of the population ever does. Through perseverance, hard work, and determination, you’ve proven that you can set a goal and see it through. And that is no small feat.”

The commencement program also included remarks and greetings from the President of the Student Government Association, Paul McElearney, and Board of Trustees Chair the Rev. Dr. M. Lamont Littlejohn Jr.

The featured speaker was Skip Allen, lead pastor at Hope Community Church in Shelby, N.C. A graduate of Crest High School in Shelby, he earned a Bachelor of Science in biblical studies from Liberty University and a Master of Arts in religion with a concentration in evangelism and church planting. Hope Community Church is a growing multi-site church where people gather each week to worship, grow in their faith, and reach their communities with the hope of Jesus.

Skip Allen, lead pastor at Hope Community Church in Shelby, N.C., was the featured speaker

His wife, Jena, is a two-time graduate of �۶�ֱ�� and has dedicated 17 years to serving mothers and newborns as a labor and delivery nurse at Atrium Cleveland in Shelby. The Allens have five children.

Allen focused his comments on navigating the road ahead. He encouraged graduates to follow the advice of King Solomon in Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your paths.”

He labeled these two verses as the “strategy for life,” because they list three ways to trust God: correctly, completely and confidently. “It says, ‘In all your ways acknowledge Him,’” Allen related. “That doesn’t mean just say His name—it means know Him, because the more you know God, the more you’ll trust Him.

And the more you trust Him, the more you’ll see Him directing your path. The Hebrew word ‘acknowledge’ means to know deeply, personally, relationally.”

Allen concluded by saying, “Graduates, don’t just go out and make a living—go out and make a life out of trusting the God who made you. And, as you walk into a future full of both uncertainty and opportunity—never forget that you have a God who is calling you to trust him. Correctly. Completely. Confidently. Because He knows the way.”

During the ceremony, Senior Scholastic Awards were presented to the members of the graduating class who earned the highest grade point average during their terms of university study. The winners were:

Crystal L. Aldridge, mathematics, who was also awarded the Most Outstanding Graduate medal in recognition of her outstanding leadership, citizenship and academic excellence.
Theodore Francis Drescher, graphic design.
Sydney Grace Hudson, political science and international affairs.
Reese Mollie Brynn Jones, biology.
Abigail Faith McBee, computer science.
Zoe Grace Mina, exercise science.
Mylee Kathleen Quattlebaum, nursing.
Ashley Marie Rich, English.
Dylin Marie Rose Waldorf, Christian Studies

Connor D. Settlemyre also received the Most Outstanding Graduate Medal for his leadership, citizenship and academic excellence. He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Music.

The Gardner-Webb Online Scholastic Award is given at each commencement to the online student with the highest cumulative grade point average. This year’s winner is Abigail Marion Osborne, who received a Bachelor of Science in nursing.

The Darlene J. Gravett Award was presented to Dr. Yolanda Lindsay, who earned her Doctor of Education in curriculum and instruction. This faculty-nominated award recognizes graduate students whose research promises meaningful, lasting benefit to society. It is named in honor of Gravett, who was a long-time dean of the GWU Graduate School and associate provost emerita.

Lindsay’s study, “Teacher Understanding, Perceptions, and Experiences of Students in Foster Care: A Forgotten Population,” sheds light on a critical and often overlooked issue in education. Through surveys, focus groups, and interviews, she uncovered significant gaps in teacher awareness of foster care processes — gaps that hinder the support students in foster care need to succeed. Her research not only identifies the problem but offers clear solutions. Lindsay highlights the need for stronger communication between school staff and Social Services, standardized policies for identifying and supporting students in foster care, and professional development in trauma-informed teaching strategies.

Thursday’s commencement ceremony was shown on the

College of Health Sciences Recognition Event

The College of Health Sciences held an additional recognition ceremony for its graduates on Friday, May 9, at 9 a.m. in the Lutz-Yelton Convocation Center. All master’s candidates were hooded on the stage during the event. Pre-licensure nursing students were also pinned.

More information about �۶�ֱ�� Spring 2025 Commencement is available here.

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�۶�ֱ�� to Award its 25,000th Bachelor’s Degree During Spring Commencement on May 8

Office of University Communications — Thu, 08 May 2025 14:30:00 +0000

Ceremony Celebrates Achievements of Nearly 500 Undergraduate and Graduate Students

Thursday’s commencement ceremony will be shown on the

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—�۶�ֱ�� University will host its Spring Commencement Ceremony on Thursday, May 8, at 6:30 p.m. in Spangler Stadium. Families and guests will celebrate the achievements of nearly 500 students in traditional undergraduate, online, and graduate programs of study.

The Class of 2025 will also reach a notable milestone for the University. During this year’s ceremony, �۶�ֱ�� will award its 25,000th bachelor’s degree since becoming a four-year institution in 1971. In addition, three other benchmarks will be achieved:

The College of Business will award its 9,000th bachelor’s degree.
The College of Health Sciences will award its 2,000th graduate-level degree.
The College of Education will award its 7,500th degree (includes bachelor’s and graduate-level degrees).

Skip Allen

The commencement program will include speeches from �۶�ֱ�� University Interim President Nate Evans and President of the Student Government Association, Paul McElearney. Greetings will be offered by Board of Trustees Chair the Rev. Dr. M. Lamont Littlejohn Jr.

The featured speaker is Skip Allen, lead pastor at Hope Community Church in Shelby, N.C. Allen is passionate about seeing lives transformed by the Gospel. A graduate of Crest High School, he earned a Bachelor of Science in biblical studies from Liberty University and a Master of Arts in religion with a concentration in evangelism and church planting. Hope Community Church is a growing multi-site church where people gather each week to worship, grow in their faith, and reach their communities with the hope of Jesus.

His wife, Jena, is a two-time graduate of �۶�ֱ�� University and has dedicated 17 years to serving mothers and newborns as a labor and delivery nurse at Atrium Cleveland in Shelby. The Allens have five children.

During the ceremony, the Most Outstanding Graduate Medals will be presented to two students in recognition of their outstanding leadership, citizenship, and academic excellence. Senior Scholastic Awards will be presented to students who completed their academic careers with a perfect 4.0 GPA. The online scholastic award will be given to students with the highest cumulative grade point average. The Darlene J. Gravett Award will also be presented to a graduate student for scholarly research that has the potential to make an improvement to society. It is named in honor of Gravett, who was a long-time dean of the GWU Graduate School and Associate Provost Emerita.

Thursday’s commencement ceremony will be shown on the and

More information about �۶�ֱ�� Spring 2025 Commencement is available here.

College of Health Sciences Recognition Event

The College of Health Sciences will hold an additional recognition ceremony for its graduates on Friday, May 9, at 9 a.m. in the Lutz-Yelton Convocation Center. All master’s candidates will be hooded on the stage during the event. Pre-licensure nursing students will also be pinned.

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Gardner-Webb Officials Announce Speaker for Spring Commencement

Office of University Communications — Thu, 13 Mar 2025 19:48:08 +0000

Local Pastor Skip Allen will Address Graduates on May 8 in Spangler Stadium

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—A local pastor with ties to �۶�ֱ�� University will be the featured speaker for commencement on May 8 at 6:30 p.m. in Spangler Stadium. Skip Allen a lead pastor at Hope Community Church in Shelby, N.C., will address graduates and their families and friends.

Additionally, the ceremony will have a different format this year—all participating students will have the opportunity to have their name read and to walk across the stage for recognition. Doctoral students will also be hooded during the ceremony.

“Commencement is a time-honored tradition for our students, their families, and the rest of our campus community,” noted Interim �۶�ֱ�� President Nate Evans. “We are honored to have Pastor Allen join us to celebrate our graduates and their achievements. His commitment to faith and community aligns with the mission of �۶�ֱ��, and I know he will inspire and encourage our students as they begin their next chapter.”

Skip Allen

Allen is passionate about seeing lives transformed by the Gospel. A graduate of Crest High School, he earned a Bachelor of Science in biblical studies from Liberty University and a Master of Arts in religion with a concentration in evangelism and church planting. Hope Community Church is a growing multi-site church where people gather each week to worship, grow in their faith, and reach their communities with the hope of Jesus.

He is a devoted husband and father. He and his wife, Jena, share a deep commitment to both their faith and family. Jena, a two-time graduate of �۶�ֱ�� University, has dedicated 17 years to serving mothers and newborns as a labor and delivery nurse at Atrium Cleveland in Shelby. Together, the Allens are raising five children—Haiden, Harrisen, Hadleigh, Hayes, and Halle—instilling in them a love for God and a heart for others.

Graduates who intend to participate in the ceremony, should RSVP by April 1. Graduating students can register here.

Visit the registrar’s webpage for more commencement information. If you need more information, contact graduation@gardner-webb.edu.

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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�۶�ֱ�� Honors Achievements of 2024 Summer and Fall Graduates

Office of University Communications — Fri, 13 Dec 2024 17:03:59 +0000

Over 400 Recognized at Commencement Ceremony on Dec. 13

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—In �۶�ֱ�� University’s commencement ceremony on Dec. 13, former N.C. Commissioner of Labor Josh Dobson challenged his audience of over 400 graduates to follow their dreams with all their hearts. Dobson, a 2005 GWU alumnus, served over 14 years as a North Carolina elected leader and recently became the president and chief executive officer at North Carolina Healthcare Association (NCHA).

�۶�ֱ�� President Dr. William M. Downs

The ceremony began with a welcome from �۶�ֱ�� President Dr. William M. Downs to the 2024 Summer and Fall graduates and their guests. “Today, we celebrate your achievement. We celebrate your persistence, and we celebrate your determination,” Downs praised. “And, perhaps most importantly, we celebrate the promise that each of you will carry forth from this moment and from this place…the promise of a bright and rewarding future. We also give thanks for everyone here this morning supporting you. To all of the parents, spouses, friends, and loved ones of our graduates, I want to say how pleased we are to have you here at �۶�ֱ�� University…and on behalf of our faculty, staff, and trustees, thank you for everything you have done to support our graduates during their time with us.”

The program included the invocation, a prayer of thanksgiving, offered by Vice President of Christian Life and Service and University Chaplain Dr. Josh Parrott, and the singing of the national anthem led by Dr. Aaron Rice, associate professor of music and chair of the Department of Music. �۶�ֱ�� Board of Trustees Chair Gary Smith brought welcome and greetings from the board. Music was provided by the combined �۶�ֱ�� University Orchestra and Symphonic Band, under the direction of Dr. Patricia Sparti, professor of music.

Downs introduced Dobson, who manages the NCHA’s work to represent Its membership of more than 135 hospitals and health systems throughout the state. The Association unites hospitals, health systems and care providers for healthier communities, advocating for sound public policies and collaborative partnerships to make high quality healthcare equitable and accessible for all. His role also includes directing NCHA Strategic Partners, a subsidiary that helps healthcare providers access cost-effective products and services and the North Carolina Healthcare Foundation, the charitable, non-profit innovative and programmatic arm of the association.

Dobson’s career included serving as a McDowell County Commissioner, a state representative, and Commissioner of Labor, during which he also was a member of the Council of State. For eight years, Dobson represented the 85th state house district covering Avery, McDowell and Mitchell counties located in the western part of the state. He also served as chair of the House Appropriations Committee and chair of the House Health Committee.

Josh Dobson, former N.C. Commissioner of Labor and GWU alumnus was the featured speaker.

A North Carolina native, Dobson received his bachelor’s degree from �۶�ֱ�� and a Master of Public Administration from Appalachian State University. He lives in Raleigh and Nebo with his wife, Valerie, and their daughter, Kennedy.

Speaking to the graduates, Dobson shared three statements that he wished someone would have told him on his graduation day. He explained that he didn’t have the traditional college experience. He left college after his freshman year to take a job at a local manufacturing facility where he worked the night shift. Then, when terrorists attacked America on Sept. 11, 2001, he was deeply affected and knew he needed to return to college to get an education. “However, I was married with a mortgage by that time,” he told the graduates. “Had it not been for this University and the opportunities that it provided for guys like me from a blue-collar background, I would have never been blessed to represent McDowell, Avery, and Mitchell Counties in the North Carolina State House and there is no way I would’ve had the honor of serving North Carolina as your Commissioner of Labor, nor the opportunity I’ve been given now to lead the North Carolina Healthcare Association, working with hospitals and health systems across the state.”

He continued, “So, President Downs, I have to say thank you to you, the faculty past and present, and thank you to this University for the opportunities provided to a poor boy from western North Carolina. And to be here standing before you today as your commencement speaker is truly one of the honors of my life.”

After encouraging graduates to follow their passions, Dobson’s two other challenges included: “Don’t let the drama of life pull you down,” and “You must never quit.”

Referring to the “Rocky” movies, Dobson summed up his advice, “If you really pursue your dreams and put your whole heart into life, you will have a meaningful full life, far more good than bad, but you will get knocked down, you will get bloodied, you will get scared, and you will get hurt … You really don’t lose at life unless you give up. If you look at history, those men and women who were able to persevere through failure and hard times are the ones that go on to be great. Never, ever quit pursuing your dreams.”

Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs Dr. Karen Aubrey presented scholastic awards to students in the online and traditional undergraduate programs. The Gardner-Webb Online Scholastic Award is given at each commencement to the online student with the highest cumulative grade point average. The 2024 Fall Online Scholastic Award recipient was Elizabeth Dahl, who earned a Bachelor of Science in nursing.

Next, Aubrey presented the Senior Scholastic Award, given to the members of the graduating class who earn the highest grade point average during their terms of university study. There were two winners this year: Caitlyn Hamrick, who earned a Bachelor of Science in elementary education, and Kyndal Jackson, who earned a Bachelor of Science in biology. Jackson was also recognized in 2020 as the second recipient of the Tucker Scholarship, the University’s most prestigious undergraduate award.

Doctoral candidates received their hoods, and Downs conferred undergraduate and graduate degrees on all graduates. Lesley Villarose, vice president for Student Affairs and dean of students, led the graduates in the traditional turning of the tassels.

Video from the 9 a.m. ceremony is also available on The University’s and channel.

Commencement was followed by recognition services as follows:

11 a.m. – College of Health Sciences, Lutz-Yelton Convocation Center
11 a.m. – School of Divinity, Dover Chapel
11 a.m. – Godbold College of Business, Tucker Student Center
1 p.m. – College of Education, Lutz-Yelton Convocation Center
1 p.m. – College of Arts and Sciences, Tucker Student Center

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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�۶�ֱ�� to Recognize Graduates from 2024 Summer and Fall Semesters

Office of University Communications — Tue, 26 Nov 2024 17:57:25 +0000

Over 400 Graduates will be Honored at Commencement Ceremony on Dec. 13

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—�۶�ֱ�� University will celebrate the achievements of over 400 graduates on Dec. 13 at 9 a.m. in Lutz-Yelton Convocation Center. The commencement ceremony honors graduates who completed their degrees in the 2024 Summer and Fall semesters.

“This will truly be one of our favorite and most joyful days of the academic year,” shared �۶�ֱ�� President Dr. William M. Downs. “I look forward to joining with my colleagues at Commencement in recognizing student success, formalizing the completion of degrees, and delivering a charge to our graduates as they prepare to embark on their careers. The charge I will give them is to live out GWU’s ideals and mission—to serve God and humanity—in all that they do and for all whom they encounter. We are proud and excited for the �۶�ֱ�� University Class of 2024!”

Scholastic awards will be presented to students in the online and traditional undergraduate programs. Doctoral candidates will receive their hoods, and Downs will confer undergraduate and graduate degrees on all graduates.

The speaker is former N.C. Commissioner of Labor Josh Dobson, a �۶�ֱ�� alumnus. Dobson became the president and chief executive officer of North Carolina Healthcare Association (NCHA) on Nov. 12. The Association unites hospitals, health systems and care providers for healthier communities, advocating for sound public policies and collaborative partnerships to make high quality healthcare equitable and accessible for all.

He manages the Association’s work to represent Its membership of more than 135 hospitals and health systems throughout the state. His role also includes directing NCHA Strategic Partners, a subsidiary that helps healthcare providers access cost-effective products and services and the North Carolina Healthcare Foundation, the charitable, non-profit innovative and programmatic arm of the association.

With over 14 years of experience as a North Carolina elected leader, Dobson’s career has included serving as a McDowell County Commissioner, a state representative, and Commissioner of Labor, during which he also was a member of the Council of State. For eight years, Dobson represented the 85th state house district covering Avery, McDowell and Mitchell counties located in the western part of the state. He also served as chair of the House Appropriations Committee and chair of the House Health Committee.

While in the state house, Dobson helped to write and pass a law to protect healthcare worker safety by making violence against hospital employees a felony. He also worked to enact changes to the state’s mental health law regarding involuntary commitment of individuals in behavioral crises. He contributed to landmark legislation expanding Medicaid for an additional 600,000 North Carolinians.

The 9 a.m. ceremony is also available for live streaming on The University’s and channel.

Commencement will be followed by recognition services as follows:

11 a.m. – College of Health Sciences, Lutz-Yelton Convocation Center
11 a.m. – School of Divinity, Dover Chapel
11 a.m. – Godbold College of Business, Tucker Student Center
1 p.m. – College of Education, Lutz-Yelton Convocation Center
1 p.m. – College of Arts and Sciences, Tucker Student Center

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Gardner-Webb Officials Announce Speaker for 2024 December Commencement

Office of University Communications — Tue, 22 Oct 2024 12:16:51 +0000

N.C. Commissioner of Labor Josh Dobson is a 2005 Alumnus

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—�۶�ֱ�� Alumnus and N.C. Commissioner of Labor Josh Dobson is the featured speaker for the December 2024 Commencement program at �۶�ֱ�� University. The University’s graduation ceremony will take place on Friday, Dec. 13, at 9 a.m. in the Lutz-Yelton Convocation Center.

N.C. Commissioner of Labor Josh Dobson

“I am honored and excited to be speaking at commencement,” said Dobson, who was sworn in as North Carolina’s 18th labor commissioner on Jan. 2, 2021, after serving eight years in the state House of Representatives. Dobson represented the 85th district covering Avery, McDowell and Mitchell counties located in the western part of the state.

�۶�ֱ�� President Dr. William M. Downs noted, “It is appropriate that as we send hundreds of new GWU graduates out into the workforce that we hear from our state’s Commissioner of Labor. Josh Dobson is a �۶�ֱ�� product, and he is especially well positioned to speak to the Class of ’24 about what lies ahead for them in the world of work. We look forward to having one of our own—an alumnus who rose to serve in the Council of State—return home and provide remarks at Commencement.”

Dobson served as a McDowell County Commissioner from 2010 to 2012 before being appointed in 2013 to the 85th House district seat. Dobson subsequently ran and won re-election to the 85th district seat in 2014, 2016 and 2018. During his time in the Legislature, Dobson served as Chair of the House Appropriations Committee and Chair of the House Health Committee. In 2020, Dobson won a closely contested election for Commissioner of Labor. Dobson is not seeking reelection in 2024, and he will wrap up 14 consecutive years of service in elected office following this November’s general election.

Dobson earned a Bachelor of Science in social science from Gardner Webb and a Master of Public Administration from Appalachian State University.

The N.C. Department of Labor is charged by statute with promoting the “health, safety, and general well-being” of more than 5 million workers across the state. Employee safety is Commissioner Dobson’s top priority.

Recognition Events

11 a.m., College of Health Sciences, Lutz-Yelton Convocation Center (LYCC)
11 a.m., Godbold College of Business, Tucker Student Center
11a.m., School of Divinity, Dover Chapel
1 p.m., College of Education, LYCC
1 p.m., College of Arts & Sciences, Tucker Student Center

More information on �۶�ֱ�� University’s December 2024 Commencement is available here.

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