Bo’s Smokehouse in Dover Campus Center Offers Slow-Smoked Cooking

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—�۶�ֱ��’s newest dining option, Bo’s Smokehouse, will open Sept. 8. A grand opening ceremony for the restaurant, which is located downstairs in the Dover Campus Center, is planned for 10:30 a.m.

The ribbon cutting ceremony will include a prayer of dedication by Vice President and University Chaplain for Christian Life and Service Josh Parrot, comments from GWU President Dr. William M. Downs and Aramark representatives.  

This new campus dining option will be open every evening until 8 p.m. Bo’s Smokehouse features a delicious array of top-quality local meats prepared in a unique collaboration with �۶�ֱ�� campus favorites.  

Specializing in slow-smoked cooking, the fast-casual restaurant features an eclectic twist on quesadillas, wings, sandwiches and salads. In addition, award-winning North Carolina barbecue will be served with a choice of regional sauces.

The ever-evolving menu will satisfy taste buds with new flavors and monthly specials.  

The hours of operation will be Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday from 3 to 8 p.m.  

�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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Mobile Kitchen Offers Choices for GW Sports Fans, Special Events, and Available by Request 

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—’Sup Dawgs—the new Aramark food truck on the �۶�ֱ�� University campus—provides a regular game day menu of specialty burgers, hot dogs and Philly cheesesteak. Seasonal and other select items will be added for spotlight events, and the truck is available by request for community functions.

“One of the benefits of having a food truck is the opportunity to utilize ’Sup Dawgs for community engagement as well as to provide additional food options at sporting events and special events on campus for employees, students, and visitors,” observed Brittany Cook, senior district marketing manager with Aramark. “Be on the lookout for ‘Sup Dawgs truck to appear at some special events this winter and spring,” she added. “You can always keep up with ’Sup Dawgs events and menu options on our Instagram, , or on our .”

Cook said students can use their flex dollars to purchase items from ’Sup Dawgs. Both the burgers and hot dogs are flame cooked. The burgers are a tri-blend of brisket, ground chuck and sirloin, hand-pressed with special seasoning. The hot dogs are all beef and gluten-free. The cheesesteak consists of sirloin blended with special seasoning, grilled to perfection, with smoked provolone cheese and served on a warm hoagie roll. Bulldog Chips are house kettle chips.  

“At ‘Sup Dawgs Food Truck, our customers can always expect freshly prepared food that is cooked to order,” noted. Joe Ratterree, retail and concessions manager. “Whether you start with our signature Bulldog Chips or our mouthwatering Philly Cheesesteak, we are sure you will leave satisfied and come back for more!”

The GWU campus, community groups or municipal leaders can request the food truck at their event by using or by emailing Joe Ratterree or calling 828-331-9531.

Food Truck Regular Menu

• Big Dog Drooler Combo | $9
  • ½-pound Hamburger + Bulldog Chips + 20 Oz. Bottled Soda
  • Add Cheese +1

• Dog Pound Combo | $9
  • Philly Cheesesteak + Bulldog Chips + 20 Oz. Bottled Soda
  • Add Peppers & Onions +1

• Big Dog Combo | $8
  • Jumbo Beef Hotdog + Bulldog Chips + 20 Oz. Bottled Soda
  • Add Peppers & Onions +1

• Bottled Beverages + Sides
  • Soda- $3 | Water- $2 | Bulldog Chips- $2

�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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Wear Red, Black and Runnin’ Bulldog Gear and Meet in Parking Lot of Spangler Stadium

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—�۶�ֱ�� football hits the road on Friday, Sept. 9, for the game against Coastal Carolina in Conway, S.C. Everyone is invited to attend a Football Sendoff at 12:15 p.m. to show their support for the team. Wear red, black and Runnin’ Bulldog gear and meet in the parking lot of Spangler Stadium.

Bring noisemakers and signs, and join the GWU Marching Band, Cheerleaders and Mascot Bo to send off the team.

Head Coach Tre Lamb and some of the football players will speak before loading the bus for the team’s departure at 12:30 p.m.

Kickoff is set for 6 p.m. on Saturday, with the live stream available on ESPN+.

�۶�ֱ�� University is North Carolina’s recognized leader in private, Christian higher education. A Carnegie-Classified Doctoral/Professional University, GWU is home to six professional schools, 14 academic departments, more than 80 undergraduate and graduate majors, and a world-class faculty. Located on a beautiful 225-acre campus in Boiling Springs, N.C., �۶�ֱ�� prepares graduates to impact their chosen professions, equips them with the skills to advance the frontiers of knowledge, and inspires them to make a positive and lasting difference in the lives of others. Ignite your future at �۶�ֱ��.edu.

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Special Edition, Representing Bo as a Puppy, Celebrates Anniversary of Bo Becoming the Live Mascot

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—The National Bobblehead Hall of Fame and Museum has unveiled the first officially licensed, limited-edition bobblehead of Bo, �۶�ֱ�� University’s official live mascot, who began his service on Aug, 26, 2021. The bobblehead’s release celebrates the one-year anniversary of Bo becoming the mascot. The special edition bobblehead, representing Bo as a puppy, was produced by the National Bobblehead Hall of Fame and Museum.

Sitting on a circular red and green base bearing his name on the front and �۶�ֱ�� on the back, the Bo bobblehead is in a sitting position and wearing a red collar with a tag that reads BO. The bobbleheads, which will be individually numbered to 2,022, are available through the National Bobblehead Hall of Fame and Museum’s . The bobbleheads, which just arrived and ship now, cost $30 each plus a flat-rate shipping charge of $8 per order. They will also be available soon in the GWU Campus Shop.

Bo, who celebrated his first birthday on May 4 is an English Bulldog who came from a breeder in Garner, N.C. Since becoming the official mascot, Bo has represented �۶�ֱ�� on campus and in the community. He can be seen connecting with alumni and supporting the Runnin’ Bulldogs at home athletic and other community and outreach events.

“I suppose you know your mascot has truly made the big time when it shows up as a limited-edition bobblehead!” observed �۶�ֱ�� President William Downs. “We hope our fans and alumni act fast to secure their own keepsake celebrating our beloved Bo.”

The first recorded usage of the bulldog as a mascot for �۶�ֱ�� was in 1922. Throughout the years, the bulldog has been represented in numerous forms. Live bulldogs, costumed mascots and athletic branded logos have all been featured in some fashion for GWU.

Bo is the University’s seventh live mascot, dating back to Butch I, who served from 1944 to 1953. Butch II and Chins followed before there were no live mascots for over four decades. The live mascot program returned with Barney from 2010 to 2014 before he was replaced by Roebuck. “Bucky” was designated with Mascot Emeritus status.

“We’re excited to create this bobblehead of Bo, the busiest bulldog in North Carolina,” National Bobblehead Hall of Fame and Museum co-founder and CEO Phil Sklar said. “�۶�ֱ�� is in good paws with Bo representing the university and we think alumni, students, faculty, staff, and other members of the �۶�ֱ�� community will really enjoy this bobblehead.”

About the National Bobblehead Hall of Fame and Museum:

The , which is located at 170 S. 1st St. in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, opened to the public on Feb. 1, 2019. The HOF and Museum also produces high quality, customized bobbleheads for retail sale as well as for organizations, individuals, and teams across the country. Visit the HOF and Museum online and on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

About �۶�ֱ��:

�۶�ֱ�� University is North Carolina’s recognized leader in private, Christian higher education. A Carnegie-Classified Doctoral/Professional University, GWU is home to six professional schools, 14 academic departments, more than 80 undergraduate and graduate majors, and a world-class faculty. Located on a beautiful 225-acre campus in Boiling Springs, N.C., �۶�ֱ�� prepares graduates to impact their chosen professions, equips them with the skills to advance the frontiers of knowledge, and inspires them to make a positive and lasting difference in the lives of others. Ignite your future at �۶�ֱ��.edu.

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Students Honored for Academic Achievements; President Dr. William M. Downs Expresses Thanks, Encourages Action

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—�۶�ֱ�� University President Dr. William M. Downs opened his remarks at the 2021 Fall Academic Convocation on Tuesday, Aug. 24, 2021, by expressing his gratefulness. “Thanks to the grace and glory of God, we are together again in this special place, celebrating the start of a new academic year,” he proclaimed. “Convocation is a calling together, a summoning, or a convening. It is a time-honored academic tradition at most universities.”

Downs noted that parts of his message were serious, but he would end on a light tone with a special presentation. The surprise was the first public appearance of new mascot Bo, who joined the president on stage while a choir led by Dr. Joshua Cheney, assistant professor of music, sang the recently-discovered GWU Fight Song. A little shy at first, the English bulldog puppy was led by caretaker Ashley Chapman, administrative assistant to the School of Psychological Science and Counselor Education. He was available afterward to greet students who stayed for a reception.

Before Downs addressed the assembly, Vice President for Christian Life and Service and Senior Minister to the University Tracy Jessup gave the welcome and invocation. Provost and Executive Vice President Dr. Ben Leslie presented the Scholastic Achievement Awards, and Downs recognized the recipients of Ignite Excellence, R.W. Andrews and the Tucker Heart, Soul, Mind and Strength scholarships.

Student Government Association President Jada Newton led the reaffirmation of the University Honor Code. Staff accompanist Timothy E. Scruggs, and violinist Hannah C. Thurman accompanied by Caleb A. Etchison presented musical selections. Cheney led the singing of the GWU Alma Mater.

Downs’ message focused on three areas: thanks, encouragement and action. He thanked the faculty for their dedication and innovation to provide world-class instruction. “We have faculty with impressive academic pedigrees who actually care about the success of their students—and that doesn’t happen everywhere,” he stated. “We have scholars and practitioners who go the extra mile not just to teach their students but to mentor their students, to coach their students, to listen to their students.” 

He invited the students to think ahead to the year 2025 and wonder what might change in four years—in the workplace, technology, the world, society, and Christian faith. He asked students to take ownership of their future and to actively shape their destiny. “We live in a divided society and a broken world…humanity needs healers, uniters, and peacemakers,” Downs remarked. “Why not us? Who among us will stand up and step up? The world needs more �۶�ֱ��. More of our nurses and health care professionals, more of our educators, our counselors, our pastors…Let us be the solution.”

Lastly, he reminded students to stay vigilant about dealing with COVID-19. “This is our home. This is our family,” he affirmed. “We will do whatever it takes to keep this place open and to keep you on track for success.”

Awards and Scholarship Recognitions

Scholastic Awards

The Scholastic Awards are presented to those students with the highest GPA at the conclusion of one, two and three years of study at the University.

One-Year

The 2020-2021 One-Year Scholastic Award is presented to 22 students, who tied for the award with perfect 4.0 averages.

• Helena Berczes
• Eli Brooks
• Leah Carpenter
• Mark Chandler
• Caleb Cook
• Rebecca DeMar
• Hannah Early
• Bien Gabrielle Gaddi
• Luke Goodyear
• Alexandra Haasser
• Paula Harvie
• Makayla Jibben
• Micah Moulder
• Emma Rayfield
• Grace Schiefen
• Victoria “Baylee”  Short
• Laura Sloan
• Chelsea Walters
• Tori Weatherley
• Selah Werner
• Makayla White
• James “Trevor” Wyatt

Two-Year

The 2020-2021 Two-Year Scholastic Award is presented to five students, who have a perfect 4.0 average. 

• Allyson Butts
• Emma Cloninger
• Jasmine Jones
• Victor Putter
• Annabeth Reed

Three-Year

The 2020-2021 Three-Year Scholastic Award is presented to six students with a perfect 4.0 average.

• Timothy Bennett
• Jonathan Frye
• Holly O’Brien
• Faith Parandhamaia
• Emily Rhew
• Louise Schmidtgen

Ignite Excellence Recipients

The Ignite Excellence Scholarship competition serves as an opportunity for students to compete for the highest academic scholarships awarded by the university.

2020-2021

• Helena Berczes from Varina, Va. majoring in Biomedical Sciences and American Sign Language
• Elle Decoe from Hickory, N.C. majoring in Psychology
• Makayla Jibben from Green Valley, Ill., majoring in Biology with a Biomedical Science concentration
• Andy Jones from Nashville, N.C. majoring in Management
• Justin Tolleson from Chesnee, S.C., majoring in Psychology
• Emily White from Apex, N.C., majoring in Communications

2021-2022

This year, eight students received full-tuition scholarships to honor their exemplary academic achievements. The average grade point average of these students is 4.45.

• Logan Baumstark from Charlotte, N.C., majoring in Accelerated Pastoral Ministries Program
• Nicholas Cobble from Manassass, Va., majoring in Exercise Science
• Allie Cooke from Hidebran, N.C., majoring in Exercise Science
• John Haynes from Lincolnton, N.C., majoring in Nursing
• Alethia McDowell from Greenville, S.C., majoring in Nursing
• Anna-Kate Schiebel from Asheboro, N.C., majoring in Business
• Shelby Watkins from Manchester, Tenn., majoring in Missiology and English
• Sorelle Werner from Cornelius, N.C., majoring in Biology with a concentration in Nutrition Science

R.W. Andrews Scholarship

The R. W. Andrews scholarship is awarded to a male student from Cleveland County planning to attend �۶�ֱ��. This year’s recipient is Devin Pressley from Kings Mountain, N.C. To be considered for the scholarship, candidates must display integrity, leadership, and academic success. The student awarded this scholarship is one who upholds the true mission and value of �۶�ֱ�� University.

Tucker Heart, Soul, Mind and Strength Scholarship

The Tucker Scholarship is awarded each year to one high school student who exemplifies the principles and values representative of the �۶�ֱ�� community. This top scholarship is made possible by the generous support of Carolyn and Robert Tucker who exemplify these same principles and values in their personal and professional lives.

• The 2020-21 recipient is Leah Carpenter from Stanley, N.C. Carpenter is majoring in nursing with a minor in Spanish.
• The 2021-22 recipient is Kyndal Jackson from Gaffney, S.C. Jackson is majoring in exercise science with a minor in Spanish.

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.

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

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English Bulldog Puppy Officially Begins His Duties on Aug. 26

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—�۶�ֱ�� University’s new live mascot has a name. Bo was selected from more than 200 entries submitted for consideration. The new pup is engaged in basic etiquette training, before he officially begins his duties on Aug. 26. In the days ahead, GWU’s four-legged best friend will be a familiar sight to all on campus and in the community.

“The start of a new academic year brings with it a sense of new energy and renewal, and nothing captures that spirit at �۶�ֱ�� better than the introduction of a new mascot,” explained GWU President Dr. William Downs. “Bo the Bulldog is a cute, lovable little puppy right now, but we know he’ll soon grow into a wonderful representation of the fun and fierceness that comes with GWU Athletics.”

Downs added, “Historically, ‘Bo’ derives as a nickname meaning ‘to live’ or ‘living’—making it a perfect match for the infusion of life we’re bringing to this new era of Bulldog sports. ‘Bo’ is also solidly connected to football greatness (think Bo Jackson), to upbeat, lively music (think Bo Diddley), to a former First Dog of the United States (in the White House from 2009-2017), and to some of our favorite tailgating food (well, you know the restaurant). Fans of all ages will want to ‘Say Hello to Bo.’ We can’t wait to introduce him!”

Chuck Burch, vice president for Athletics, also expressed his enthusiasm for the new canine ambassador. “The introduction of a live mascot in 2015 was well received by our alumni base, and continuing that tradition with a precocious new bulldog is a tremendous way to show our school spirit,” he remarked. “As our students return to campus, I am sure they will all welcome our new puppy with open arms.”

One person on campus who is eager to meet Bo is Karen Davis, administrative assistant to the dean and copy cataloger in the GWU Library. After studying his picture and doing a little research, she submitted the name for consideration. “I thought the puppy looked like a Bo,” she said. “I looked up the characteristics of the name, and a couple of the adjectives are powerful and tough.”  

Jada Newton, ’21, student body president, just happened to be on campus when Bo came for a preliminary visit. “I think he represents the atmosphere coming into this new semester and year—a fresh start and a new perspective,” she observed. “Coming out of a crazy year, we are returning to the same �۶�ֱ�� campus but have a new youthful and optimistic perspective approaching our future with each other and at the University.”

Bo is an English Bulldog from a breeder in Garner, N.C. The University plans to involve him in full-time activities with the enrollment team, alumni group, athletics teams and community groups as well. He will be a full-time ambassador for the Runnin’ Bulldogs.

“When we first met our good boy in July, we knew right away he was something special,” observed Kim Kreuzman, GWU social media manager. “He was sweet, but also rambunctious—the perfect mix needed for his future role. To say we were excited to bring him home later that month would be an understatement. For students and the community, we know many of them were sad to hear that Roebuck would be retiring, but the joy of watching our puppy grow to become our much-loved mascot is exciting. He’s got some big paws to fill, and he is already working on bulldog basics—sit, stay, and high-five!”

A university staff member (and family) will serve as Bo’s caretakers and others across the campus community will be designated to provide daily attention, support and training for him. in Shelby, N.C., will provide veterinary services. Dr. Deanna Moseley Lawrence, a 1999 graduate of N.C. State University College of Veterinary Medicine in Raleigh, N.C., established Hope in June 2009 as a full-service small animal hospital that provides medical and surgical care. “We are excited to be Bo’s veterinarian and look forward to many years of getting loads of kisses from this sweet boy,” Lawrence affirmed.

Previous live mascot, Roebuck “Bucky,” retires on Aug. 24, after serving the University for six years. He quickly became a campus favorite with students, the community and athletics. Now at 7 years old, Roebuck has been designated with Mascot Emeritus status.

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

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