news-category: Campus News ÃÛ¶¹Ö±²¥ Names Dr. Kenneth Johnson Executive Director of Student Success By Office of University Communications On October 27, 2025 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 ÃÛ¶¹Ö±²¥ 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 ÃÛ¶¹Ö±²¥ 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 ÃÛ¶¹Ö±²¥ 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 ÃÛ¶¹Ö±²¥ University community. From my first interactions, I was struck by the strong sense of purpose and faith that guides this institution. ÃÛ¶¹Ö±²¥â€™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 ÃÛ¶¹Ö±²¥ 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 ÃÛ¶¹Ö±²¥ 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., ÃÛ¶¹Ö±²¥ 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. Learn more at .
News Article ÃÛ¶¹Ö±²¥ College of Health Sciences to Host Annual Scholars Day Highlighting Research of Nearly 70 Students Event Showcases Research by Graduates of Physician Assistant Studies and Exercise Science BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—The College of Health Sciences will host its annual Scholars Day on Wednesday, April 23, showcasing the research and academic achievements of graduates from the Physician Assistant (PA) Studies and exercise science programs. Scholars Day will take place in Room 255, […] Office of University Communications | April 14, 2026
News Article ÃÛ¶¹Ö±²¥ Honors Students Present Research at Southern Regional Honors Conference Honors Scholars Gain Experience Presenting Research Beyond the Classroom BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—ÃÛ¶¹Ö±²¥ University Honors Program students recently showcased their scholarship at the Southern Regional Honors Conference (SRHC), held in Montgomery, Ala. The annual conference brought together over 700 high-achieving students, along with faculty, and administrators from across the southern United States for three days of […] Office of University Communications | April 14, 2026
News Article Double Dawg Day Support on April 16 Helps ÃÛ¶¹Ö±²¥ Students Like Amber Jimenez Build Their Future First-Year Nursing Major Shares How Donor Generosity Shapes her Experience BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Gifts made on ÃÛ¶¹Ö±²¥ University’s Double Dawg Day on Thursday, April 16, directly support the scholarships that help students succeed in the classroom and beyond. On this day, the GWU community will unite to support scholarships, academic programs, athletics and the hands-on experiences […] Office of University Communications | April 12, 2026