Department of Religious Studies and Philosophy Archives - �۶�ֱ�� University

�۶�ֱ�� Students Demonstrate Academic Excellence at Life-of-the-Scholar Multidisciplinary Conference

Office of University Communications — Thu, 09 Apr 2026 15:44:03 +0000

Annual Conference Showcased Outstanding Research Across Multiple Fields

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Gardner‑Webb University students brought curiosity, creativity, and months of hard work to the spotlight during the annual Life‑of‑the‑Scholar Multidisciplinary Conference (LOTS-MC). With research spanning everything from freshwater snails to historical propaganda, the event showcased the depth and diversity of student scholarship that has defined LOTS‑MC for nearly three decades.

Professor of English Dr. Shea Stuart, left, welcomed the presenters and guests, and Director of Undergraduate Research Dr. Elizabeth Amato explained the prizes offered.

“I’m always amazed at the incredible level of scholarship our students display,” noted Professor of English Dr. Shea Stuart, a member of the LOTS Advisory Board. “They research in depth and present a topic in front of students and professors with professionalism and poise. Sharing research and knowledge with each other—this is the ideal of a university education.”

The faculty showcase highlighted research by Professor of Paleontology Dr. David Campbell. His presentation was titled, “Snailless in Seattle and Aiders of the Lost Arks: Adventures with Snail and Clam DNA.”

Presentation Prizes

Dr. Elizabeth Amato, director of Undergraduate Research, sponsored prizes for the People’s Choice Presentation and the Best Paper. Each award has a first ($125), second ($75), and a third place ($50). The People’s Choice ended in a three-way tie, with each winner or group receiving the first place prize of $125. Winners included:

Daniel Bennett won second place for his presentation, “Isolation of Cuminaldehyde from Cuminum Cyminun and Subsequent Reduction to Cuminol: Characterization by IR-Spectroscopy and GC-MS.”

People’s Choice

Undergraduate Roundtable, featuring the members of the Ethics Bowl Team; Mentors: Dr. Anna Sieges Beal and Dr. Shea Stuart
Bethany Durham.
Dana Ijames.

Best Paper

First Place – $125, Andrea Stampone.
Second place – $75, Daniel Bennett.
Third place – $50, Leanna Tally.

The members of the LOTS-MC steering committee were Holly Mabry, Dr. Bruce Moser, Hannah Wylder, Dr. Meredith Rowe, Dr. Melissa McNeilly, Dr. Heather Wright, Dr. Elizabeth Amato, Noel Manning, and Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences Dr. Robert Prickett. Debbie Hill provided administrative support.

Student Presentations

PowerPoint slides for the presentations are available in .

Undergraduate Roundtable:

Issa Cogdell
Hodges McCathern
Brock Nikkari
Maeve McGinley
Alaena Locklear
Sophie Boss

Natural Sciences

Andrew Wilson—”Elucidating Elimia: Affinities of North Carolina Freshwater Snails”; Mentor: Dr. David Campbell.
Daniel Bennett—”Isolation of Cuminaldehyde from Cuminum Cyminun and Subsequent Reduction to Cuminol: Characterization by IR-Spectroscopy and GC-MS”; Mentor: Dr. Ben Brooks.
Matthew McCoy Stowe—”Review of Dihydroartemisinin and Its Potential as a Neutral Chemotherapeutic”; Mentor: Dr. Meredith Rowe.
Bella Harding—”Morphea Skin Disease”; Mentor: Dr. Meredith Rowe.
Jada Pittman—”Red Light Therapy: Mechanisms, Benefits, and Emerging Applications”; Mentor: Dr. Meredith Rowe.

Bethany Durham, left, tied for the People’s Choice Award with the Undergraduate Roundtable and Dana Ijames, and Andrea Stampone won the Best Paper Prize.

Andrea Stampone—”Propaganda and the Italian Battle for Wheat”; Mentor: Dr. Elizabeth Amato.
Bethany Durham—”Women’s Role as Perpetrators of Genocide and Why the Media Doesn’t Portray Them as Such”; Mentor: Dr. Elizabeth Amato.
Allie Johnson—”Press Control and Censorship Throughout the Reign of Terror”; Mentor: Dr. David Yelton.

Religious Studies

Leanna Tally—”Corporate Personality and Sin in the Old Testament”; Mentor: Dr. Paula Qualls.
Brandon Richmond¬—”A Black Comparative Religious Study of Christianity and Islam”; Mentor: Dr. Scott Shauf.
Dana Ijames—”Battle for the Womb: Reimagining Revelation 12 The Woman Clothed with the Sun Through a Black Womanist Hermeneutic Lens”; Mentor: Dr. Robert Canoy.
Carson Ford Gruber—”A Comparison and Analysis of Heaven and Hell in the New Testament, New Testament Apocrypha, and Dante’s Divine Comedy”; Mentor: Dr. Scott Shauf.
Joy Axelson—”Unchanging Gospel Message, Changing Context: Contextualization Strategies in Lukan Paul, Irenaeus, and Althanasius”; Mentor: Dr. Scott Shauf.
Avery Marie Sharpe—”Hospitality in an Old Testament Lens”; Mentor: Dr. Paula Qualls.

Education and Psychology

Persaius Stringfield—”Childhood �۶�ֱ��: It Takes a Village”; Mentor: Kara Alves.
Morgan Lilly—”Fantasy Audiobooks and Medieval Aural Tradition”; Mentor: Dr. Josh Pittman.

�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 .

The post �۶�ֱ�� Students Demonstrate Academic Excellence at Life-of-the-Scholar Multidisciplinary Conference appeared first on �۶�ֱ�� University.

�۶�ֱ�� Professor with 26 Years of Experience Receives Excellence in Teaching Award

Office of University Communications — Thu, 14 Aug 2025 18:26:52 +0000

Professor of Religious Studies, Dr. Paula Qualls, Honored for Academic Rigor and Dedication to Students

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—A faculty member with 26 years of experience at �۶�ֱ�� is the 2025 recipient of the Excellence in Teaching Award presented at the Fall Faculty Assembly. Dr. Paula Qualls, professor of religious studies, was honored for engaging her students not only in the classroom but also in their daily lives—guiding them through difficult material while creating space for reflection, growth, and personal connection.

Qualls is a second-time winner of the award, having received the honor in 2008. One of the highest bestowed upon a faculty member, the accolade recognizes academic rigor, excellence in course design, a profound dedication to students, and a commitment to living out the University’s mission.

To be eligible, the faculty member must have completed at least five years of full-time teaching service at GWU, be nominated by a peer, and receive a formal recommendation from their department chair. Faculty and students are given the opportunity to score and leave comments and feedback to make the ultimate determination for the award. The award is presented with a $1,000 cash prize and the invitation to speak at fall convocation.

Qualls’ course portfolio spans every academic level—introductory general education classes, upper-level courses for majors and non-majors alike, and graduate-level seminars. Year after year, her department receives an overwhelming number of glowing comments from students who describe her with words like “love,” “compassion,” “encouraging,” and “positivity.”

Students shared:

“She was a great teacher and mentor during our University 111 class. She possesses a unique blend of knowledge, compassion, and the ability to inspire us to be better. Her classes weren’t just about learning—they challenged us to take everything to a personal level. I also view her as a mentor in my life. She takes the time to truly know each student. The impact she’s had has been profound.”
“My fellow classmates and I agree—we have been transformed and deepened in our faith through her guidance and support. She is relatable and fosters a loving environment where we can learn and build community with one another.”

Dr. Paula Qualls developed and piloted �۶�ֱ��’s first Faith Living-Learning Community—a transformative initiative that earned her the First-Year Experience Instructor of the Year Award for 2024.

Her colleagues consistently highlight her excellence in course organization, clarity of instruction, and innovative teaching design. They describe her as someone who not only masters her subject matter but also connects deeply with every student she teaches.

Colleagues have said:

“She reflects deeply on pedagogy—following the latest scholarship on teaching and learning and regularly incorporating new ideas into her classes.”
“Her strength as a teacher comes from the passion she has for her students and her remarkable ability to connect with them on a personal level.”

This past year, she developed and piloted �۶�ֱ��’s first Faith Living-Learning Community—a transformative initiative that earned her the First-Year Experience Instructor of the Year Award for 2024.

She also represented �۶�ֱ�� at Elon University’s 20th Annual Teaching and Learning Conference. Sharing her methods with educators from across the region, Qualls presented “Teaching Outside the Box: Exploring Innovative Techniques.”

Qualls received her bachelor’s degree from the University of South Carolina in Columbia, and her MDiv and PhD from The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Ky. She joined the GWU faculty in 1999. Before that, she taught for two years at Campbellsville University in Kentucky and as an adjunct with Simmons Bible College in Louisville.

The post �۶�ֱ�� Professor with 26 Years of Experience Receives Excellence in Teaching Award appeared first on �۶�ֱ�� University.

Guided by Faith: Annagrace Earwood’s Dedication to Serving Others

Office of University Communications — Thu, 14 Nov 2024 18:11:34 +0000

2024 Dean’s Scholar Embarks on a Dual-Degree Journey

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—As an undergraduate student at �۶�ֱ�� University, Annagrace Earwood’s favorite memory involves an act of service. She was vice president of the Religious Studies Association and volunteered with members at the Washington Outreach Ministry, a food pantry in Cherryville, N.C.

“We went one Friday and spent the morning packing and handing out food to those in need,” Earwood stated. “This is a very important memory to me, because I was able to serve the local community with my peers. This was truly a blessing.”

Earwood sensed God’s calling on her life when she was a teenager. “I know I am called to minister to people in whatever capacity the Lord opens up doors for,” she acknowledged. “I especially have a heart for children and believe that I am supposed to minister to them in some way.”

Annagrace Earwood preaches at a conference for DreamGirls
Ministry, which is based in Greenville, S.C.

She followed her instinct to help children by volunteering two years with the mission team from the Office of Christian Life and Service that served critically ill children at Give Kids The World Village in Orlando, Fla. In a �۶�ֱ�� Newscenter story about the trip, Earwood said the children taught her a very important lesson. “I learned that there are 5-year-olds out there who are emotionally stronger than I am at 18 years old, simply because they don’t let their circumstances define them, and even in the unknowns of life, they can find great joy,” she noted.

Earwood is a dual enrollment student in the School of Divinity at �۶�ֱ�� pursuing a Master of Divinity and a Master of Arts in Religion. She graduated with her Bachelor of Arts in Christian studies with a concentration in Discipleship in May 2024. She was recognized at the Student Volunteerism, Service and Leadership Awards Ceremony for her work with the Religious Studies Association.

Annagrace Earwood, second from right, helps pack food bags with other members of the Religious Studies Association.

Earwood is also the recipient of the 2024 Dean’s Fellowship Scholar Award, given annually by the GWU School of Divinity. Each year, the Department of Religious Studies and Philosophy selects a graduate of the program to receive the full-tuition scholarship for the complete course of study in the Master of Divinity degree at �۶�ֱ��. The recipients, known as “Dean’s Fellows,” are chosen for exceptional academic performance and call to ministry.

Although Earwood grew up in Shelby, N.C., and was familiar with �۶�ֱ��, she didn’t experience the University for herself until she came for a visit. “I felt God’s peace as soon as I came to campus the first time I toured,” she reflected. “I have enjoyed everything about my �۶�ֱ�� experience. I loved my department, my professors, my peers, and my classes. I think what really makes �۶�ֱ�� home for me is the sense of community that is here, as well as the support by the community to follow the calling God has on my life.”

With the support of friends, family and her professors, Earwood has felt confident and prepared for her graduate studies and ministry, especially in the area of discipleship. “All of the professors in the religious studies department are especially meaningful to me,” she affirmed. “They all had a tremendous impact on how I approach theology, ministry, and biblical study. I appreciate them all deeply and do not think they will ever know the extent of their impact on my life.”

Learn more about the Department of Religious Studies and Philosophy.

Learn more about the School of Divinity.

Annagrace Earwood worked at the Vacation Bible School at Double Shoals Baptist Church.

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.

The post Guided by Faith: Annagrace Earwood’s Dedication to Serving Others appeared first on �۶�ֱ�� University.

Through �۶�ֱ�� Honors Experience, High School Students Engaged in Campus Life and Community Service

Office of University Communications — Fri, 02 Aug 2024 13:02:41 +0000

Participants Attended Immersive Week to Learn About University’s Academic Programs and Mission

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Marnina Krist, a rising high school senior from Fuquay Varina, N.C., was one of 22 students who attended The Honors Experience at �۶�ֱ�� University this summer. Like some of the others, Krist had toured the GWU campus before, but wanted a chance to see for herself what the environment is really like. The immersive week introduced her to all aspects of life on the University’s campus—from going to class and chapel to dining and volunteering in the community.

“It’s been an honor to be here,” she reflected. “I definitely wanted to experience campus life firsthand, to get a better sense of what �۶�ֱ�� has to offer, and it has not disappointed.”

She added that the best part of the week was making new friends. “I have talked to so many people that are in my dorm,” Krist affirmed. “It’s been really great meeting everyone here. Everyone is super nice, just a great community and great friendships.”

The students developed friendships while attending classes and working side-by-side at a local food ministry, the community garden and the Boys and Girls Club in Shelby, N.C.

Marnina Krist, of Fuquay Varina, N.C., asks an admissions counselor a question about applying to GWU.

Andrea Hartman

Andrea Hartman came all the way from Murrieta, Calif., to attend. The rising senior will be on the lacrosse team when she returns in the fall of 2025. “I decided to verbally commit to play lacrosse at �۶�ֱ�� University because of my kind and genuine interactions with Coach (Kathleen) Crum and the team members she introduced me to, as well as the school itself,” Hartman related. “While taking part in the �۶�ֱ�� Honors Experience, I learned that the campus life is very active and there are always plenty events to attend for whatever you are interested in. I learned that the teachers are very welcoming and dedicated to their students’ success. The week made me very excited about attending Gardner Webb to grow my faith and build important relationships with my lacrosse teammates.”

Jackson Hartley, a rising senior from Winston-Salem, N.C., also appreciated the many opportunities provided during the week. “It’s just really been an amazing experience,” Hartley asserted. “This school is at the top of my list.”

He is considering a major in Christian studies and enjoyed the different aspects of Bible study covered in the course he took with Professor of Religious Studies, Dr. Paula Qualls—”Lions, & Tigers, & Prayers, Oh My! Danger and Prayers in the Bible.”

Because of his interest in acting and singing, Hartley also looked into the Department of Theater Arts and choral opportunities in the Department of Music. “I don’t know if other schools can stack up to how welcomed I feel here,” he observed. “I feel like this school has everything that just makes up me.”

Students in the Honors Experience help volunteers at Green Bethel Baptist Church in Boiling Springs distribute food to people in need.

Vice President and University Chaplain for Christian Life and Service Josh Parrott helped to coordinate the program. “This was an exceptional group of high school students, and they especially loved their time in the classroom with our world-class faculty,” he shared. “I am thankful for our professors who shared their expertise, for the Christian Life and Service team who led devotions from Heb 12:1-3 during chapel, and for our four GW (student) counselors who chaperoned the students during the week.”

If the students decide to attend �۶�ֱ��, they will receive credit for the classes they took as part of the program. During the week, they explored a variety of topics: writing, prayer, physics, biology, psychology and American Sign Language.

They are automatically invited to interview for �۶�ֱ��’s full-tuition Ignite Excellence Scholarship, and everyone who competes receives $2000 per year at GWU.

Another element of the Honors Experience underscores the University’s mission to serve God and humanity. After participating in the local ministries, the students were asked to collaborate on an Innovation Challenge that brings classroom learning together with community engagement. At the end of the week, they presented their ideas to a panel of faculty, staff and community partners. The group proposed programs to encourage mentorship and fellowship while providing access to the food that families need.

“Our community leaders in Boiling Springs and in Shelby were very impressed with the community service and innovative ideas presented by this group,” Parrott praised. “The Honors Experience is a great opportunity for high school students to learn about the mission of �۶�ֱ��, and it is also an opportunity for our University to invest in these students both intellectually and spiritually.”

Honors Experience Class of 2024

Anna Barnette, rising senior, Mars Hill, N.C.
Carolynn Bottoms, rising junior, Shelby, N.C.
Addison Bray, rising senior, Cookeville, Tenn.
Emma Croston, rising senior, Piedmont, S.C.
Hallie Eichler, rising junior, Wake Forest, N.C.
Jordan Gates, rising junior, Gastonia, N.C.
Kaili Grenier, rising junior, Hampstead, N.C.
Dorian Harris, rising senior, Greer, S.C.
Jackson Hartley, rising senior, Winston-Salem, N.C.
Andrea Hartman, rising senior, Murrieta, Calif.
Cadence Jones, rising sophomore, Charlotte, N.C.
Marnina Krist, rising senior, Fuquay Varina, N.C.
Hope Marley, rising junior, Bessemer City
Hannah Parker, rising sophomore, Rutherfordton, N.C.
Hannah Parks, rising junior, Shelby, N.C.
Etera Pendleton, rising senior, Monroe, N.C.
Lily Pope, rising senior, Albemarle, N.C.
Jocelyn Ruiz, rising junior, Lincolnton, N.C.
McKennon Showers, rising sophomore, Huntersville, N.C.
Carlee Stratton, rising senior, Spartanburg, S.C.
Alyssia Turner, rising senior, Covington, Ga.
Julianna Williams, rising senior, Clayton, N.C.

�۶�ֱ�� Students Serving as Honors Experience Counselors

Jacquelyn Carroll, rising senior, majoring in international business
Abby Hennie, rising sophomore, majoring in nursing
Robert Osowski, rising senior, majoring in communications with a focus on public relations
Katelyn Suggs, rising senior, majoring in nursing with a psychology minor

Discover more about the Honors Experience.

The post Through �۶�ֱ�� Honors Experience, High School Students Engaged in Campus Life and Community Service appeared first on �۶�ֱ�� University.

Balancing Acts: Singing, Songwriting, and Studying

Office of University Communications — Tue, 30 Jul 2024 19:13:43 +0000

Junior Lindy Bryson Releases Her First Music Video

By Avery Copeland, Intern for University Communications

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Lindy Bryson, a junior at �۶�ֱ�� University who doubles as a singer-songwriter, is making a name for herself in the Christian Country music scene while authentically sharing her faith. Recently, this young musician released her first music video for her song “Save Your.”

The experience was particularly special for Bryson, because her father is featured as the main character in the narrative music video. The video was filmed in the river where she was baptized, around her rural community, and in Bryson’s home church, Boiling Springs Baptist Church.

After graduation, Bryson plans to travel and pursue her music full-time to share her love for Jesus with others. Whether performing at local venues or aiming for larger stages, Bryson’s goal remains to inspire her listeners in their own spiritual journey.

Lindy Bryson had the honor of being the first
person to perform on the stage of Brinkley
Amphitheater when the venue opened in
October 2023.

“We couldn’t be prouder or happier for Lindy,” offered �۶�ֱ�� President Dr. William Downs. “I heard Lindy perform back in October 2023 when she was the first person to take the stage on opening night at our brand-new amphitheater. She wowed us then, just as she has done numerous times since at campus worship services. The song ‘Save Your’ now puts Lindy’s musical talent on full display, and more importantly it underscores an important message about seizing the moment to accept God’s grace. What a wonderful inspiration this song is to the GWU community and indeed to all of us.”

Born in Boiling Springs, Bryson developed a love for music early in life. Her family’s support for her passion, including funding her voice lessons and traveling to every performance, has helped her musical career reach new heights today.

Bryson began singing in church at 3 years old and learned to play guitar when she was 12. Today, her musical style is inspired by other singers, including Dolly Parton, Zach Williams, and Ben Fuller. At 13 years old, she attended a Kari Jobe meet-and-greet, where she got to ask what led her to become a worship leader. Jobe responded, “I just wanted to help people love on Jesus.” At that moment, Bryson realized she was being called to pursue music and has embodied Jobe’s mentality ever since. “When pursuing music becomes overwhelming, I just remind myself that I do this not to reach for fame but to share the love of Jesus,” she added.

Despite her early love for music, it wasn’t until the COVID-19 pandemic that she discovered her passion for songwriting. Coping with the loss of her voice teacher and mentor and her grandfather’s hospitalization due to the virus, Bryson turned to songwriting. “I started pouring my feelings into songs. It was my way of worshiping and connecting with God,” she explained.

Bryson feels she was called to lead worship and to write songs focused on Christian life, believing both are essential to her faith and how she can connect with others on their spiritual journey. “I have always said whether I am singing at a little country church or on the Grand Ole Opry stage, that I will be singing the name of Jesus,” she shared.

Bryson grew up just down the street from �۶�ֱ��, where her mother is an alumna and her grandfather, Jerry Bryson, coached baseball for nearly 15 years. She often sang the national anthem at the �۶�ֱ�� baseball games. Having spent her childhood visiting the University’s campus and with her family’s connection to the University, she confidently chose to attend �۶�ֱ��, majoring in Christian studies with a minor in music.

Her studies have influenced her music and songwriting, providing her with more scriptural-based knowledge and insights into how best to minister to people. Since beginning her major, Bryson’s relationship with Christ and her musical abilities are growing stronger.

As a full-time college student, Bryson works daily to balance her studies and love of music, with a priority on developing a deeper faith. “If I prioritize that time with Jesus, then I see how much it helps with my schoolwork and songwriting,” she said. After spending the rest of her day focusing on her studies, Bryson works on her music late at night.

In 2023, Bryson’s song “Muddy Waters” won first place in the Don Gibson Singer-Songwriter Competition, where she performed in front of Gibson’s wife. Bryson wrote the song about her experience being baptized in the Broad River when she was 12 years old. “I realized being a Christian is not just about doing good and going to church every Sunday. It’s about having a relationship with Jesus Christ. Being able to make that public action of faith was so special to me,” she reminisced. In the same year, she opened for Will Jones and 15-time Grammy winner Ricky Skaggs at the Brinkley Amphitheater.

Listeners can find Bryson’s music on various streaming platforms, including Spotify, iTunes, Apple Music, Amazon Music and Pandora.

Writer Avery Copeland, of Atlanta, Ga., is a senior English major.

The post Balancing Acts: Singing, Songwriting, and Studying appeared first on �۶�ֱ�� University.

Seven �۶�ֱ�� Students Present Research at National Alpha Chi Convention

Office of University Communications — Tue, 21 May 2024 13:39:38 +0000

Senior Noah Seip wins one of 18 Presentation Prizes at the Event

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—The �۶�ֱ�� University North Carolina Zeta Chapter of Alpha Chi recently attended the honor society’s national convention in Birmingham, Ala. Noah Seip won the Patricia Graham Prize for world history, and four students completed a collaborative research project. The theme of the convention was “Leaders for Tumultuous Times.”

Noah Sipe

Seven students participated:

Micah Moulder, of Seneca, S.C., a May 2024 graduate with a degree in psychology.
Rebecca Majorel, of Clemons, N.C., a May 2024 graduate with a degree in Christian studies.
Marissa DiMatteo, of Greenville, N.C., a May 2024 graduate with a degree in biology/biomedical sciences.
Blake Henkel, of Granite Falls, N.C., a May 2024 graduate with a degree in biology/biomedical sciences.
Trevor Wyatt, of Winston-Salem, N.C., a May 2024 graduate with a degree in mathematics education.
Paula Harvie, of Johnson City, Tenn., a May 2024 graduate with a degree in World Languages, Literature and Cultures.
Seip, of Salisbury, Md., a senior history major.

Seip competed with nearly 100 presenters to receive one of 18 cash prizes. The students were recognized for making the best scholarly, creative, or artistic presentations in their fields. The prizes were funded through discipline-specific endowments established by supporters of Alpha Chi. Seip was awarded $100 for his paper on German propaganda during World War I. The title was “Influencing the Home Front: How German Propaganda Posters in World War I Portrayed the War as a War of Defense Against Evil Enemies.”

The collaborative research team of Moulder, Henkel, Majorel and DiMatteo (which is required to be interdisciplinary) faced stiff competition as members presented research on how AI can be ethically used in healthcare and what we can do to uphold ethical standards as uses for AI in healthcare increase. The title of the project was “Healing AI So It Can Heal Us: Prospects for the Ethical Use of Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare.”

In addition to participating in the collaborative research competition, Moulder also presented an individual paper.

From left are conference participants, Paula Harvie, Noah Seip, Trevor Wyatt and Rebecca Majorel.

About Alpha Chi

Alpha Chi promotes academic excellence and exemplary character among college and university students and honors those who achieve such distinction. Induction into Alpha Chi is the highest academic honor bestowed upon any group of students at �۶�ֱ��. Membership is open to students with junior and senior classification who demonstrate strong character and whose GPA ranks them in the top 10 percent of their academic classes. The GWU North Carolina Zeta Chapter of Alpha Chi was established in 1972.

About �۶�ֱ��

The post Seven �۶�ֱ�� Students Present Research at National Alpha Chi Convention appeared first on �۶�ֱ�� University.

�۶�ֱ�� Divinity School and Religious Studies and Philosophy Department Host Baptist Women in Ministry Film Screening on April 15

Office of University Communications — Thu, 11 Apr 2024 19:51:19 +0000

Documentary Chronicles History of Movement to Advocate for Women in Ministry

Baptist Women in Ministry Executive Director, the
Rev. Dr. Meredith Hare Stone will attend the
screening and participate in a Q&A session after
the movie.

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—The School of Divinity and the Department of Religious Studies and Philosophy are sponsoring the screening of “Midwives of a Movement” on Monday, April 15, at 7 p.m. in Dover Chapel. Produced by Baptist Women in Ministry (BWIM), the film features the organization’s Executive Director, the Rev. Dr. Meredith Hare Stone.

Stone will also attend the �۶�ֱ�� event and participate in a Q&A session following the movie. The screening is free and open to the public.

Baptist Historian and Baylor University professor, Mandy McMichael, provides commentary for the film, as well. The documentary chronicles the four-decade history of the movement to advocate for women in ministry within and beyond the Southern Baptist Convention.

“Midwives of a Movement” interviews 11 women who were active in the early days of the women’s movement within the Southern Baptist Convention in the 1970s and 1980s, and includes archival material from these years. The women tell how they came to feel called to ministry and what they needed as they began seek opportunities to live out their calling. The film ends as each of them reflect on what their involvement in this movement means to them today.

More information about the film is available .

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.

The post �۶�ֱ�� Divinity School and Religious Studies and Philosophy Department Host Baptist Women in Ministry Film Screening on April 15 appeared first on �۶�ֱ�� University.

Considering Who and What is Celebrated During Black History Month

Office of University Communications — Thu, 08 Feb 2024 19:53:13 +0000

Senior Brandon Richmond Shares His Search to Discover What the Month Means to Him

By Brandon Richmond, 2023 Intern for University Communications

“What does Black History Month mean to me?” It’s a question that I asked myself a lot a few years ago. I have celebrated it for as long as I can remember. I remember my mother gathering my siblings and me together to watch various Black historical movies and documentaries, from “Roots” to the Maya Angelou documentary. My family would often spend February talking about Black history and going to various museums. And, all of this taught me what Black History Month means to Black people, but not always what it meant for me as an individual.

It was not until high school that I found myself in various conversations about the relevance of Black History Month. I defended the month tooth and nail, always talking about the foundations of the month. I would always bring up why Carter G. Woodson, the father of Black history, founded Black History Week to celebrate the freeing of the slaves and also celebrate the accomplishments African Americans made after that. I would talk about how Historical Black Colleges and Universities turned that week into a month. However, I started to feel that this answer was unsatisfactory, even though those I was arguing against found themselves satisfied.

I felt like there was something that even I was missing when thinking about Black History Month. When I was a freshman at �۶�ֱ�� University, I found myself celebrating Black History Month at college. I posted a series of Instagram stories that were facts about historical Black figures and seldom talked about Black facts. And while I did this and researched a lot of Black stories and facts to discuss, I still felt like I was missing something. People would direct message me telling me how much they loved the series. Yet, I felt like something was missing.

At this same time, I was in the “African American Literature” class with Dr. Kemeshia Randle Swanson and “Creative Non-Fiction” class with Professor Matthew Duffus. Professor Duffus had us read James Baldwin’s “Notes of a Native Son,” and for Dr. Swanson, we read African American poetry. James Baldwin in this work talked so much about life and living. He talked about his lived experience, his struggles, his frustrations, and his thoughts. And the poetry I read for Dr. Swanson was not all about suffering, oppression, and struggling—a lot of it was happy and upbeat. The poets were lamenting their situation but also expressing joy for the few things they did have.

It was then that I realized what Black History Month meant to me.

Black History Month was not just about the history of those who came before me but it was about me and my lived experiences. It was meant to be a celebration of Black culture and history not just a holiday about facts. I had been viewing it as a time of looking back on the people before me and not an active celebration of my lived experience as a Black person and celebrating the existence of my family, friends, and community. That is why Black History Month is important, because it is Black people still celebrating the continuation of Us, our stories, and our history.

Black History Month is not just about the past—it is about the past, the present, and the future. It represents the fact that Black history will always exist and cannot be destroyed. It is meant to represent the strength of our stories and experiences. Now, when Black History Month comes around, I still reflect on books like Carter G. Woodson’s, “The Miseducation of the Negro,” where he describes the importance of Black History. Yet, I also reflect on works like N.K. Jemisin’s “How Long ‘til Black Future Month,” a collection of Afrofuturist stories that center on the idea that Black History is not just about the past but also about the future.

Black People existing and celebrating our existence; that is what Black History Month is to me.

Brandon Richmond, of Salisbury, N.C., is double majoring in English and theology/philosophy and plans to graduate in May. On the GWU campus, he is active in several clubs and organizations and serves as president of the Black Student Association and senior class vice president

The post Considering Who and What is Celebrated During Black History Month appeared first on �۶�ֱ�� University.

Through Global Partnerships, Gardner-Webb Offers Several Opportunities to Study Abroad

Office of University Communications — Thu, 07 Sep 2023 17:16:36 +0000

Santiago Agreda-Martinez and Jordan Joseph are Among 29 Students Participating in Programs in 2023-24

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—After studying German at �۶�ֱ�� University with professor Dr. Bernhard Martin, Santiago Agreda-Martinez and Jordan Joseph applied to study abroad in Mannheim, Germany. They began their adventure on July 31. Joseph will stay for two semesters, and Agreda-Martinez will be back at GWU for the 2024 Spring Semester.

Martin also serves as director of International Programs at �۶�ֱ��. He is excited to see more students taking advantage of international opportunities. For the 2023 Spring Semester, four students went abroad. In May and June 2023, 15 participated in intensive summer schools, and in spring 2024, eight students will be studying abroad—three in Liverpool, three in Athens, and two in Germany. In addition to the students traveling to other countries, �۶�ֱ�� has four German exchange students on campus this semester—two from Mannheim and two from Trier University.

Martin offered the benefits of studying abroad. “Every company or grad program looks at study abroad in a very positive light,” he explained. “This is one of those markers that makes you stand out. It says something about who you are that you are willing to jump into a new environment and see where you can go with that.”

�۶�ֱ�� also has partnerships with universities in Malta, Greece, Spain, Quebec, and Sweden. Martin noted that students can choose a semester abroad, summer sessions, or short trips. He advised students who might be interested in international studies to start the conversation early in their college career.

“They can come to my office, and I can listen to what they hope to accomplish and design a program for them,” Martin stated. “We partner with universities that teach courses in English, so the language barrier is not there.”

From left, Jordan Joseph and Santiago Agreda-Martinez pose with other students who attended a soccer match, which was one of the trips arranged by the Intensive International Summer Academy.

Agreda-Martinez and Joseph are in an exchange program offered through a partnership between GWU and Baden-Württemberg Cooperative State University (DHBW) in Mannheim, Germany. The school is one of Germany’s largest and best-known institutions for career-integrated dual study programs.

As part of their exchange, DHBW gave Agreda-Martinez and Joseph 3,000 euros and offered them a free four-week German course at the Intensive International Summer Academy. “I have learned so much German,” related Agreda-Martinez. “I met so many people from different parts of the world and became very close friends with all of them. The best part so far is the excursions the school does for the students to get out and have fun. My favorite excursion is the soccer match between Hoffenheim and SC Freiburg.”

Agreda-Martinez, of Charlotte, N.C., is majoring in criminal justice administration and minoring in homeland security, German, and military science. He already speaks Spanish and English and wanted to expand his language skills by adding German.

Joseph, of Clayton, N.C., is a junior. He’s pursuing a double major in international business and Christian studies with a concentration in missiology and a minor in German. “I chose my major because I want to help spread the word of God to those all around the world and to help people,” he explained. “I am getting a business degree to make it easier for me to go into countries where missionaries are not allowed to enter.”

For more information about �۶�ֱ��’s international opportunities, email Martin at bmartin@gardn e r-webb.edu or call him at 704-406-4415.

The post Through Global Partnerships, Gardner-Webb Offers Several Opportunities to Study Abroad appeared first on �۶�ֱ�� University.

�۶�ֱ�� Student Lindy Bryson Honored to Open Inaugural Concert in Brinkley Amphitheater on Oct. 28

Office of University Communications — Thu, 24 Aug 2023 13:03:34 +0000

Singer-Songwriter Performs to Worship God and Lead Others to Connect with Him

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—�۶�ֱ�� student Lindy Bryson has the honor of being the first musician to perform on the Brinkley Amphitheater stage on Oct. 28 when she opens for Will Jones and 15-time Grammy winner Ricky Skaggs. Her new song, “Muddy Waters,” won first place in the Don Gibson Singer Songwriter Competition. The song describes how she felt on the day she was baptized in the Broad River.

Bryson almost didn’t enter the competition, but decided to after some convincing by her mom. Besides the thrill of winning, the entire experience was a positive one. “It was amazing, because I got to meet songwriters and I got to perform in front of Don Gibson’s wife and meet her,” Bryson shared.

The granddaughter of Jerry Bryson, former �۶�ֱ�� baseball coach, Bryson grew up going to games at the University. Her mom is an alumna, too. “�۶�ֱ�� has always been such a special place to me,” she asserted. “My first memories are going to baseball games at GWU, and I have had the honor of singing the national anthem at the games.”

Bryson started singing in church when she was 3 years old and has loved music ever since. She learned to play the guitar at age 12. She was bashful, but music gave her the confidence to be on stage in front of people. “My parents always said I was super shy, but as soon as I got a microphone in my hand, I was a different kid,” she noted. “Music has been such a big part of my life, and I just love to sing and lead worship, wherever God will open doors.”

She listens to country music and Christian music, and her favorite artist is Dolly Parton. “Her songs tell a story, and she’s not afraid to tell people about her faith,” Bryson affirmed.

Bryson is majoring in Christian studies and minoring in music. “Music is more than just singing words, it’s about worshipping God and connecting with him—and being able to connect with others, as well,” she explained. “I love to write songs that tell a story and songs that people can connect to and that help people love on Jesus. I’m so thankful for the support the community has given me and I hope I can make everyone proud.”

The Ricky Skaggs concert on Oct. 28 begins at 5 p.m. with Bryson’s music. General admission tickets are $35 and selling fast. The concert is made possible in part with a grant from the Town of Boiling Springs TDA. WNCW 88.7 FM is a media sponsor. Tickets can be purchased .

The post �۶�ֱ�� Student Lindy Bryson Honored to Open Inaugural Concert in Brinkley Amphitheater on Oct. 28 appeared first on �۶�ֱ�� University.