Student-Centered Archives - �۶�ֱ�� University

�۶�ֱ�� Costa Rica Study Abroad Opens Doors to Culture, Language, and Lasting Impact

Office of University Communications — Mon, 09 Mar 2026 20:09:42 +0000

Alumna Yulia Putnam Shares How Four‑week Program Shaped Her Personal and Professional Journey

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—�۶�ֱ�� University students are invited to participate in an immersive Spanish-language study abroad program in Costa Rica, taking place May 17-June 13. The four‑week experience had an immediate and lasting impact on GWU alumna Yulia Putnam, a high school logic and sports marketing teacher at Pinnacle Classical Academy in Shelby, N.C.

Yulia Putnam

“Traveling to Costa Rica during my junior year of college was easily one of the most transformative chapters of my college life,” Putnam shared. “It wasn’t just a trip; it was a total immersion that felt like a gift from start to finish.”

Students earn six credit hours of Spanish, which may be applied to General Education requirements or toward a Spanish major or minor. The academic opportunity also fulfills the University’s Professional Readiness Experience (PRE) requirement for graduation.

Open to students of all proficiency levels, the program places participants with Costa Rican host families and includes weekday coursework designed to significantly improve Spanish language skills and intercultural understanding—competencies that greatly enhance future career or graduate‑school opportunities. The program coordinator accompanies the group for the first 10 days, and students remain for the full month to complete their coursework and cultural immersion.

Putnam recalled the best part of her stay was experiencing the culture to the fullest—seeing the sights, tasting the food and learning the language. She explained, “There’s just something different about practicing a language while you’re actually living in the environment where it’s spoken.”

The Arenal Volcano in La Fortuna

She also noted that her time in the Central American country impacted with her long after she returned home. “That experience didn’t just stay in Costa Rica; it came home with me and completely reshaped how I teach,” Putnam observed. “It taught me that the best learning happens when you step outside your comfort zone and truly engage with the world.”

Putnam works to instill that same spirit of adventure in her students. She stated, “I try to bring that same sense of wonder and ‘Pura Vida’ spirit to my students, showing them that education is about more than just textbooks—it’s about connection and perspective.”

“Pura Vida” means pure life or simple life, and represents Costa Ricans relaxed attitude towards life. It can mean be used to say, “Hello,” or “Goodbye,” “I’m doing well,” or “It’s great.”

Putnam also encouraged current �۶�ֱ�� students to seize the opportunity. “To anyone even remotely thinking about going: don’t hesitate,” she advised. “You’ll come back with more than just memories; you’ll come back with a clearer sense of who you are and a much bigger heart for the world around you.”

Additional Program Details

Included Weekend Excursions

Throughout the program, students participate in organized weekend excursions that highlight Costa Rica’s cultural and environmental diversity. Planned visits include:

La Paz Waterfall Gardens and Doka Coffee Plantation
Manuel Antonio National Park
Irazú Volcano National Park

Yulia Putnam and the �۶�ֱ�� students pose for a photo before a ziplining trip.

Optional Independent Travel Opportunities

Students also receive one full free weekend and one to two additional free days to explore Costa Rica independently. Recommended destinations include:

Arenal Volcano.
Guanacaste beaches.
Whitewater rafting on the Pacuare River.
Monteverde Cloud Forest.
Puerto Viejo.
Horseback riding.
Ziplining adventures.

Requirements and Contact Information

Participants must have a valid passport and plan their flights separately from program tuition. For details or to register, students should contact Dr. Teresa R. Phillips at tphillips@gardner-webb.edu.

�۶�ֱ�� University is North Carolina’s recognized leader in private, Christian higher education. A Carnegie-Classified Doctoral/Professional University, GWU is home to nine colleges and schools, more than 80 undergraduate and graduate majors, and a world-class faculty. Located on a beautiful 225-acre campus in Boiling Springs, N.C., �۶�ֱ�� prepares graduates to impact their chosen professions, equips them with the skills to advance the frontiers of knowledge, and inspires them to make a positive and lasting difference in the lives of others. Become More at .

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�۶�ֱ�� Launches Dual Enrollment for Eligible High School Juniors and Seniors

Office of University Communications — Tue, 16 Dec 2025 13:45:48 +0000

Enroll Now for January 2026 Start; Offering Affordable College Credit and Campus Resources

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—�۶�ֱ�� University is pleased to announce Dual Enrollment opportunity for eligible high school juniors and seniors. These students can enroll in the same courses offered to GWU students, save money and earn college credits. Enrollment for the program is open now through Jan. 8 for the 2026 Spring Semester, which begins on Jan. 12.

Learn more about eligibility and registration.

Dr. Robert Prickett

A key advantage of �۶�ֱ��’s Dual Enrollment Program is that students can choose topics that interest them from a variety of subjects. They can either check off required general education courses or explore various majors by enrolling in introductory classes. Instead of being in a class with other high school students, they will be enrolled in a course with other GWU college students and taught by GWU faculty in a collegiate setting. Online formats will also be available. Plus, a designated �۶�ֱ�� dual enrollment mentor/advisor will communicate with students from the moment they register until they take their final exams.

“All the way through the process, there is going to be somebody reaching out besides the professor,” emphasized Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences Dr. Robert Prickett. “We’re going to have a specialized orientation every semester before classes start, which means we will take them to see where their class is, make sure they know where to park, and take them to get their IDs.”

Additionally, high school students will have access to the same services offered to �۶�ֱ�� students, such as tutoring and help with writing. Dover Library, which is open to everyone in the community, is also available to them for studying and research.

Designed to make college courses affordable for high school students and their families, the fee for �۶�ֱ��’s Dual Enrollment is $450 course, which reflects a 75 to 80 percent discount compared to what traditional undergraduate students pay. This cost doesn’t include books, course materials or lab fees (if applicable).

�۶�ֱ��’s Dual Enrollment Program gives motivated high school students the chance to experience college-level learning, explore academic interests, and earn credits that transfer widely—all at a reduced cost. With personalized support, access to campus resources, and flexible course options, students will gain a head start on their college journey.

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 Dual Enrollment page.��

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Jessika Raduly Appointed Director of Campus Unity and Connection at �۶�ֱ��

Office of University Communications — Thu, 04 Dec 2025 18:18:24 +0000

GWU Alumna Brings Institutional Experience and Proven Commitment to Student Well-Being to Her New Role

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—�۶�ֱ�� Vice President for Student Development and Dean of Students Lesley Villarose has named Jessika Raduly, previous associate director of Student Engagement, as the new director of Campus Unity and Connection. Raduly earned both her Bachelor of Science and Master of Business Administration from GWU.

Villarose noted Raduly’s experience and praised her skills as a communicator and leader. “Jessika Raduly is the best person to lead Campus Unity and Connection because she brings nearly two decades of deep institutional knowledge, a proven commitment to student well-being, and a unique ability to build bridges across our entire community,” she emphasized. “Her leadership style is rooted in empathy, collaboration, and genuine care—exactly what this role requires.”

Raduly joined the University staff in 2006 and has served in multiple areas, including the Departments of Health, Sport, and Physical Education, and Housing and Residence Education.

“Over the last 19-plus years at �۶�ֱ�� University, I have remained deeply committed to helping students grow into the best version of themselves,” Raduly shared. “As I continue to develop in my new position, I will seek out opportunities to expand my specialized skills and support an increasingly diverse student population. In my work with international students and multicultural groups, I will focus on strengthening global student support, enhancing cross-cultural programming, and enriching the overall campus culture.

Raduly and her husband, Jody, and their two children are active members of Pleasant City Church in Shelby, N.C. In her free time, she enjoys being outdoors, exercising, and spending quality time with her family.

In alignment with �۶�ֱ��’s core Christian values, the Office of Campus Unity and Connection is designed to promote a positive and supportive educational experience for all faculty, staff and students. Further, the Office of Campus Unity and Connection fosters a welcoming campus environment to all, where students can engage, grow, and thrive.

Through meaningful programs, leadership opportunities, and community partnerships, Raduly will work to help students build relationships, develop essential interpersonal skills, and find their place at the University. Whether through student organizations, cultural programs and initiatives, or campus events, Raduly is dedicated to creating a vibrant and supportive community that enhances the student experience, both inside and outside the classroom.

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�۶�ֱ�� Names Dr. Kenneth Johnson Executive Director of Student Success

Office of University Communications — Mon, 27 Oct 2025 16:40:57 +0000

Administrator Has Over a Decade of Experience in Implementing Student-Centered Strategies

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Interim Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs Dr. Nicole Waters has named Dr. Kenneth Johnson of Lake Point, Utah, as executive director of �۶�ֱ�� University’s Division of Student Success. Johnson has over 10 years of leadership experience that includes developing and implementing comprehensive, data-informed student success strategies. He comes to GWU from Weber State University in Ogden, Utah, where he served as assistant director of Student Support Systems and Career Readiness. He will begin his new position at �۶�ֱ�� on Nov. 3.

Dr. Kenneth Johnson

Waters stated, “Dr. Kenneth Johnson brings a wealth of experience and a genuine heart for students to the role of leading the Division of Student Success. From our very first conversation, it was clear that he embraces �۶�ֱ�� University’s mission and is deeply committed to meeting students where they are. Dr. Johnson shared that he values every student interaction and desires to create a strong sense of belonging across our campus community. I am excited to welcome Dr. Johnson and look forward to the positive impact his leadership will bring to our students and the University.”

Johnson has contributed to student-centered programming and services at Weber since 2019. In his most recent role, he created a framework that combined academic support and career development across software platforms like Starfish, leading to a 30% boost in student engagement. He introduced a hands-on learning tool that offered job simulations and skill-building opportunities to prepare students for the workforce. He also launched a peer mentoring program focused on personal and professional growth to encourage peer-to-peer support.

While implementing these initiatives, Johnson collaborated with faculty to design impactful experiential learning opportunities—such as internships, co-ops, and service-learning projects—to enrich student learning, engagement, and overall development. He developed and led workshops in collaboration with Student Support Services to foster essential success skills and provide targeted support for

underrepresented student populations.

Johnson noted, “I am deeply honored to join the �۶�ֱ�� University community. From my first interactions, I was struck by the strong sense of purpose and faith that guides this institution. �۶�ֱ��’s commitment to developing the whole student in mind, body, and spirit aligns perfectly with my own philosophy of education. I look forward to collaborating with colleagues across campus to build upon that legacy and empower students to achieve their fullest potential.”

Previously, Johnson served as executive director of Moore Career College in Baton Rouge, La. There, he spearheaded strategic initiatives that dramatically improved student persistence, resulting in a 94% increase in retention rates and a 171% increase in admission rates.

Johnson earned his Bachelor of Science in organizational management from Ashford University in Clinton, Iowa. He received his Master of Education in higher education leadership from Weber, and completed his Doctor of Education in student affairs and administration and leadership at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse.

Outside of his professional life, Johnson enjoys spending time with his wife and family. Together, they are grateful for the opportunity to join the �۶�ֱ�� community and look forward to becoming active members of the Boiling Springs area.

Search Committee Members:

Dr. Nicole Waters, Interim Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs
Dr. Greg Pillar, Assistant Provost
Dr. Robert Prickett, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences
Brian Arnold, Assistant Dean of Students & Director of Student Engagement
Carrie Baker, Director of Academic Services for Student-Athletes
Cheryl Potter, Associate Dean of the Noel Center for Disability Resources

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Ignite Scholar Lucy Merritt Found a Home at �۶�ֱ��—And the Path to Pursue Nursing

Office of University Communications — Wed, 24 Sep 2025 16:37:12 +0000

Junior Experiences the heart of GWU: Personal Connection, Academic Excellence, and the Passion to Serve

To our readers: In celebration of 60 years of nursing education at GWU, which began in August 1965, HSON highlights some of its students and alumni serving around the world. Learn more here.

BOILING SPRINGS—Growing up in Shelby, N.C., Lucy Merritt knew �۶�ֱ�� University as the place her parents attended and her grandfather worked. When she started her college search, Merritt discovered for herself the unique qualities of the GWU community.

“The family-like atmosphere just feels like home to me,” Merritt described. “Coming to events, they knew my name and remembered things about me that I shared. I felt like a name rather than a number, and that was so special and helpful in my decision-making process. Also, the �۶�ֱ�� nursing program can’t be beaten. The small class sizes, hands-on learning, and professors who are personal and truly want me to succeed were all parts of my decision to attend �۶�ֱ��, as well.”

Merritt, an Ignite Scholar, is a junior nursing major with a minor in health management. “The opportunity to receive the Ignite Scholarship was true evidence of God’s plan for my life,” Merritt acknowledged. “He provided the Ignite Scholarship right when I needed it. I will forever be grateful for the blessing that this scholarship is. I feel so honored to have been a recipient of this amazing gift. It was a relief financially, but also a huge indicator that GW was right where I was supposed to be for these years of college.”

Because of her own experiences with �۶�ֱ��, Merritt has served two years as a Student Recruitment Ambassador (SRA) for the Office of Admissions. “My favorite part is getting to meet so many new people and making the incoming students feel welcome and at home,” she observed. “The Admissions team and their kindness is what drew me to �۶�ֱ��, and it is so special to be part of that team now.”

Her dedication as a SRA is also the force that also drives her to become a nurse. “I find joy in serving others, and nursing allows me to do just that,” Merritt affirmed. “I love the many fields that nursing can lead to and the endless opportunities it provides. Nursing allows me to meet people at their lowest, scariest moments and brighten those moments with things like a smile, sitting to talk, or just caring for the needs that they have medically.”

Katelyn Ivey, left, watches Lucy Merritt take a
blood pressure reading.

She appreciates how the professors in the Hunt School of Nursing help students understand and master the rigorous curriculum and requirements. “The nursing department has done a wonderful job of giving me opportunities to be prepared for stepping into my career,” she noted. “They do this through lab work, simulation, skill checkoffs, interactive lectures, and so much more. They truly are the best group of professors, and I don’t think I could get through nursing school without their support.”

In particular, her nursing advisor, Assistant Professor Dr. Angel Queen, is a mentor and a role model. “She was (also) my ‘Fundamentals of Nursing’ professor in lecture and lab,” Merritt related. “She is so helpful and patient. She answers every single question I have, and that is a lot. In the Spring 2025 semester, she sat down with me and talked through a topic which I had struggled with on a quiz. It meant the world to me that she would take the time for that. I know she has prepared me well to continue on in nursing. I am so thankful for Dr. Queen.”

Beyond the personalized academic support Merritt has received are the meaningful friendships she’s developed since starting her �۶�ֱ�� journey. “Rachel Gaura, Emma Jean Hampton, and Kateley Canipe have had such a positive impact on my time at GW,” she shared. “Getting to do all of the events with them and having fun together has made my �۶�ֱ�� experience even more special. They support me in all that I do and are constantly encouraging me when I get overwhelmed or stressed out.”

Lucy Merritt, center, enjoys spending time with two friends she’s made since coming to GWU: Rachel Gaura, left, and Kateley Canipe. Photos by Claire Ledford

Merritt cherishes the people and experiences that weave together the �۶�ֱ�� community. “I love the events that we have, and the many opportunities that we get to engage with the people we know—and to meet new people,” she shared. “I really try to spend a lot of time strengthening those relationships that I have built here at �۶�ֱ�� and am excited to continue meeting new people and building new relationships!”

Listen to more of Merritt’s story in this episode of the Bulldog Mindset podcast.

About the Ignite Scholarship

Ignite Excellence is �۶�ֱ�� University’s most competitive academic scholarship. Each recipient receives a full-tuition scholarship that covers the cost of tuition for eight semesters. Recipients are selected through an on-campus interview process. They must maintain a cumulative institutional grade point average of 3.5, reside on campus, and continue to demonstrate a strong leadership ability and commitment to service. Learn more here.

About �۶�ֱ��

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Rooted in Tradition, Growing in Faith: Legacy Families Gather at �۶�ֱ�� University

Office of University Communications — Wed, 17 Sep 2025 16:50:56 +0000

Alumni Return to Pin Their Legacy Students and Celebrate Lasting Impacts of GWU Education

A Note from the GWU Alumni and Parent Relations Office: �۶�ֱ�� cherishes our legacy families—students whose parents, grandparents, or other relatives are proud GWU alumni. Legacy Students are an important part of the �۶�ֱ�� story, carrying on the Runnin’ Bulldog tradition across generations. We’re updating our Legacy Student list to ensure no one is left out of special communications and events. To ensure your family is on our radar, please contact Shannon Hovis at shovis@gardner-webb.edu

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—“Three generations; one special place. �۶�ֱ�� wasn’t just a school; it was a second home,” described Brandy Borders Curtis, Class of 2003, a daughter of an alumna and mother of a first-year student. Her words resonated with the students, family and friends gathered on Sept. 13 in Tucker Student Center. A special Family Weekend event, the Legacy Ice Cream Social was a time for alumni to reminisce about their �۶�ֱ�� University experience, to pin their Legacy Student and pass the GWU torch to the next generation.

In his welcome, Interim GWU President Nate Evans noted, “Today is about celebrating tradition, celebrating memories, and the stories that we all share together. Whether you were here 40 years ago, 50 years ago, 10 years ago, or just five years ago, we can all talk about the power of legacy here at �۶�ֱ��. The lessons learned here are not just for a season, they are for a lifetime.”

Curtis’ mother, Cindy Borders, received her master’s degree from �۶�ֱ�� in 1983. She was eight months pregnant with Brandy when she walked across the stage at graduation. Recently, Curtis’ daughter, Caroline, began her GWU journey. She’s majoring in business management and is a recipient of The LeGrand Ware Scholarship, an award established to honor students from Cleveland or Rutherford County who have achieved high academic distinction and who plan to pursue a degree in business.

Brandy Curtis, ’03, speaks to the legacy families and friends about her �۶�ֱ�� experience.

“We are just tickled to death that she decided to come to �۶�ֱ��, because we received such a great education,” Borders said.

Curtis, an elementary education major, was also a member of the GWU tennis team, which enriched her college experience. “My teammates were like family,” she stated. “We trained hard, laughed harder and lifted each other up through every win and loss on and off the court. I still stay in touch with many of them, we try to meet up for a weekend and when we do, it’s like no time has passed at all.”

Three generations of �۶�ֱ�� alumni:
Brandy Borders Curtis, 2003; Cindy Borders,
1983; and Caroline Curtis, a first-year student.

She continued, “It’s rare, but it’s real. This University is where I made many of my lifelong friends. When it came time for my daughter to choose her college, we visited lots of campuses, but nothing could compare to �۶�ֱ��.”

Curtis added that her daughter is already experiencing the same things she herself did back in the early 2000s. “I’m even more grateful that this university continues to offer students that same family atmosphere in Christ, their foundation, that made such a difference in my life,” she asserted.

Before closing her speech, Curtis praised �۶�ֱ�� for preparing her to teach and ultimately become an elementary school principal. “The professors helped shape my path with wisdom, patience and encouragement,” she acknowledged. “I still use what I learned here every single day.”

Before the pinning ceremony, Director of Alumni and Parent Relations Shannon Hovis explained the significance of the pin. “To our Legacy Students, today you are receiving not just a pin, but a promise,” she expressed. “The pin symbolizes the values that have shaped your family’s journey here: faith, perseverance, friendship, and service. It connects you to those who have gone before you and reminds you that you are now part of something greater than yourself.”

Director of Alumni and Parent Relations Shannon Hovis speaks to the 130 family members and friends gathered for the Legacy Ice Cream Social and Pinning Ceremony.

She continued, “To our Legacy Family Members, as you pin your students, you pass along more than just a symbol. You pass along your prayers, your hopes, your belief in the power of this �۶�ֱ�� experience. You affirm that the same community that shaped you will now walk alongside your student.”

After the pinning, Caroline Curtis reflected on the significance of the event for her. “The pinning was very special to me because not many people can say they are a three-generational �۶�ֱ�� student,” she offered. “Standing side-by-side with my mom and grandma really showed me how blessed my family has been to have a great education while also keeping Christ at the center of our lives.” She decided to attend �۶�ֱ�� because of the close-knit community that she witnessed on campus with each visit. She chose her major because her dad works in the business field, and she wants to follow in his footsteps.

Pat Wells, Class of 1963, appreciated the opportunity to attend the event with her great-niece, Sophie Townsend. Wells’ mother was Townsend’s great-grandmother. “Her dad was my nephew and my sister’s son, and she’s no longer with us, so this is an honor for me to come and pin her,” Wells explained. “We were all education majors.”

Pat Wells, Class of 1963, pinned her great-niece, Sophie
Townsend, whose great-grandmother was Wells’ mother
and also a GWU alumna.

Not only did Townsend follow in her family’s footsteps and choose to attend �۶�ֱ��, she is also an education major. Besides selecting �۶�ֱ�� because of her family’s influence, Townsend was impressed by GWU’s record as a safe campus, as reported in a college ranking by the New York Times.

Townsend’s decision to pursue a degree in education was only partly influenced by her family’s background. She has discovered a love for inspiring young minds through her job teaching art classes to elementary school children at a studio in Belmont, N.C.

Also attending were Brandie Bruner and her daughter, Maleah. Brandie has two degrees from �۶�ֱ��. She earned her bachelor’s in human services and counseling in 2012 as a student in the degree completion program. In May, Brandie finished her Master of Divinity with a concentration in missiology and intercultural studies.

Brandie Bruner, right, is a two-time �۶�ֱ�� alumna.
Her daughter, Maleah, is a first-year student in the ROTC
program and a psychology major.

Brandie’s professor and advisor, Dr. Terry Casiño, was instrumental in persuading Maleah to come to school at �۶�ֱ��. At Casiño’s invitation, Brandie and Maleah started attending his church, Concord International in Huntersville, N.C., and Casiño talked to Maleah about attending �۶�ֱ��.

Maleah’s goal was to go into the military, so Casiño told her about �۶�ֱ��’s ROTC program. “He encouraged me, and it fit because I was telling him about how I really wanted to go the officer route,” Maleah related. “He said, ‘You’re going to be under my wing. I’m going to be right there.’”

A psychology major, Maleah has enjoyed bonding with the ROTC cadets and has decided to become a lawyer in the military. “I’m so glad to be here at �۶�ֱ��,” Maleah stated. “I love the school. Actually, this is home now.”

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Ignite Scholar Ayden Bollinger Found His Place—and Purpose—at �۶�ֱ��

Office of University Communications — Thu, 28 Aug 2025 19:01:45 +0000

Scholarship Support, Close-Knit Campus Life, and a Passion for Helping Others Guide This Biology Major Toward a Career in Pediatrics

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—As a recipient of one of �۶�ֱ�� University’s top scholarships, Ayden Bollinger is grateful to attend the college of his choice while he pursues his goal to become a pediatrician. The junior biology major/chemistry minor from Lenoir, N.C., is passionate about helping and serving people.

“Winning the Ignite Excellence Scholarship was a dream come true, not only for me, but for my family,” he shared. “Without it, my college experience would look a lot different right now.”

As he neared graduation from high school, Bollinger received a letter from �۶�ֱ��, inviting him to apply for early acceptance and merit-based scholarships. He filled out the application, was accepted, and offered a scholarship.

Ayden Bollinger, left, and a classmate work on an assignment in Anatomy and Physiology lab.

Senior Admissions Counselor Reilly Morgan called him with the good news and invited him to the GWU campus for a visit. “I loved the close-knit atmosphere during my visit,” Bollinger observed. “Everyone was very welcoming, and seeing firsthand the relationships students had with professors was definitely a selling point.”

Later, Bollinger was invited to apply for the Ignite Excellence Scholarship, which is �۶�ֱ�� University’s most competitive academic honor. Each recipient receives a full-tuition award that covers the cost of tuition for eight semesters.

Since Bollinger’s first semester at GWU, Morgan has stayed in touch to answer any questions he might have, even ones outside of the Office of Admissions. “She always guides me in the right direction and ensures everything is taken care of,” Bollinger stated. “Ms. Morgan also attended my high school on Senior Awards Day to present me with my scholarship. It meant a lot that she took time out of her day for that.”

Besides Morgan’s welcome and continued support, Bollinger has made friends and finds the faculty approachable and interested in his success. He enjoys collaborating with his classmates on assignments and is grateful for their advice and encouragement. He appreciates the professors, who are readily available to answer his questions. “I value GWU because it is Christ-centered—where spiritual growth is just as important as intellectual growth,” Bollinger reflected. “The classes are small, and I feel that you are not just a number to your professors. They get to know you by name.”

Ignite Scholar Ayden Bollinger completes a lab assignment.

Being at �۶�ֱ�� has given Bollinger an opportunity to meet new people and develop independence, while staying connected to his community in Lenoir. “I coach two youth basketball teams, serve as a referee, and remain engaged in my church’s youth Sunday school class,” he related.

He has served as a youth league basketball referee for two years. “I started refereeing basketball and coaching, because it was a way to stay connected to a game that I love so much. I have played basketball since I was little, starting with youth recreational leagues. I also played at my middle and high school.”

While coaching keeps him involved in basketball and serving as a mentor to young people, a career in pediatrics will also give him an opportunity to build long-term relationships with patients and their families, and “to support them through different stages of their lives, from everyday concerns to serious health challenges,” Bollinger shared. “You can make a real difference from the beginning of a person’s life. I like to learn, and I feel that being a pediatrician involves lifelong learning.”

Learn more about the Ignite Excellence Scholarship.

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�۶�ֱ�� Baseball Earns National Academic Excellence Award for 10th Consecutive Year

Office of University Communications — Wed, 30 Jul 2025 12:45:08 +0000

GWU One of Three Big South Programs Honored by American Baseball Coaches Association (ABCA)

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—For the 10th consecutive year, the �۶�ֱ�� baseball team has earned the American Baseball Coaches Association (ABCA) Team Academic Excellence Award.

The �۶�ֱ�� baseball team earned a 3.63 cumulative GPA during the 2024-25 academic year. The Runnin’ Bulldogs have earned the ABCA honor in every season under Head Coach Jim Chester.

Teams from every level of college and high school baseball were honored with this year’s award, which highlights programs coached by ABCA members that posted a GPA of 3.0 or above on a 4.0 scale for the entire 2024-25 academic year. More than 440 college programs were honored this season.

�۶�ֱ�� was one of three Big South programs to earn the award.

The ABCA, headquartered in nearby Greensboro, N.C., has a long tradition of recognizing the achievements of baseball coaches and student-athletes. The ABCA/Rawlings All-America Teams are the nation’s oldest, founded in 1949. The ABCA’s awards program also includes the ABCA/ATEC Regional and National Coaches of the Year and several other major awards—including the ABCA Hall of Fame and Dave Keilitz Ethics in Coaching Award.

For more information on �۶�ֱ�� baseball, including information on at �۶�ֱ�� this summer, fans can head over to gwusports.com. Also follow the team on X at @GWUBaseball or on Instagram at @gwubaseball.

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Jumpstart Your First Semester at �۶�ֱ�� with One Event

Office of University Communications — Thu, 03 Jul 2025 13:19:55 +0000

Program Helps Freshmen and New Transfer Students Prepare for Move-In Day

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Jumpstart at �۶�ֱ�� University is an opportunity for freshmen and new transfer students to shorten their orientation to-do list. Students can get their new Dawg Tag ID, finalize their financial aid package and create their fall class schedule—all in one place: Tucker Student Center.

The new Dawg Tag ID program brings the convenience of the traditional Webb Card to a smartphone. Available for both Apple and Android devices, the Dawg Tag allows students, faculty, and staff to access campus facilities, meal plans, and make purchases—all from their phone’s wallet. Learn more about the program here.

Molly M. Allison, interim vice president for Enrollment, shared that attending Jumpstart helps new students “check all the boxes of ‘business-y’ things that need to be completed before move-in, making move-in day a breeze!”

Students and families can also purchase GWU gear at the campus shop and arrive for orientation ready to support the Runnin’ Bulldogs.

Jumpstart Schedule

July 18 – 9 a.m. to noon or 1 to 4 p.m.
July 25 – 9 a.m. to noon or 1 to 4 p.m.
Aug. 1 – 9 a.m. to noon or 1 to 4 p.m.

Move-in day

Orientation begins with Move-in Day on Saturday, Aug. 16. Find the schedule .

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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