Featured Story Archives - ��سԹ�

Guided by Mission, Driven by Relationships

��سԹ� — Wed, 03 Sep 2025 00:25:00 +0000

Meet GWU Interim President Nate Evans

In February 2025, the ��سԹ� Board of Trustees appointed Nate Evans as interim president. Evans, who served GWU since October 2020 as vice president for Advancement, brings 13 years of experience in higher education to his new role.

“I am honored and humbled that the board of trustees selected me for this responsibility,” Evans stated. “I am grateful to those who have led ��سԹ� so well. I pledge to uphold our Christian values and build upon our University’s momentum and success.”

Board Chair the Rev. Dr. Lamont Littlejohn Jr. remarked, “I have known Nate since he arrived at GWU. He has been a constant presence on campus and has built strong relationships of trust with stakeholders across the University community. He is a man of faith and will keep the University on its Christian mission during this time of transition.”

During his tenure in the Advancement Office, Evans led initiatives that positively impacted GWU’s campus. Notably, he and his team raised more than $30 million in gifts and gift commitments. His leadership contributed to new construction, renovations, lab equipment purchases, and scholarship funding, to name a few.

Now serving as interim president, Evans sees his role as providing stability and continuity. “That means supporting ongoing initiatives, especially our focus on enrollment growth, student retention, and academic excellence,” Evans said. “I’m spending a lot of my time truly listening to what the University community are saying, their perspectives, what they need, their ideas, and concerns. I’m supporting the team that’s already here, and keeping the University moving forward in a healthy, mission-driven way. It’s about stewarding the momentum and setting the table for whoever comes next,” noted Evans.

The relationships and collaboration he already established in Advancement helped him transition into the presidential role. He described the Office of Advancement as “a front row seat to the heart of the University.”

Evans explained, “You interact with our students, you interact with donors, alumni, our faculty and staff. And through that, I learned how much people care and how much people love ��سԹ�. And then, of course, working across those departments, building those relationships as we steward the resources that folks have given us really helps you get in tune to the University ecosystem and how things work and who does what.”

Evans holds a Bachelor of Arts in exercise and sports science from East Carolina University and a Master of Science in human resource management from Western Carolina University. Before his higher education career, Evans served as an officer in the U.S. Air Force and worked in the small business sector.

His leadership style draws from all those experiences—marked by attention to detail, adaptability, and relational leadership. “In every role I’ve had, success came down to staying grounded in the mission and focusing on relationships,” Evans said. “You won’t be the expert in everything, but you need to know who the experts are and understand what drives them. That’s how you bring it all together.”

In the military, he was given an assignment and told to go figure it out. That experience made him a better manager. “It reminds me to make sure that people have the resources and the understanding on how to do their jobs if they need it,” Evans related. “Provide them what they need and remove the barriers.”

Evans is happily married to Dr. Brittany Evans, a ��سԹ� alumna and visiting assistant professor in the College of Education. They enjoy supporting students at GWU events, being outdoors, motorcycle riding, and spending time with friends.

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Drawing from the Well

��سԹ� — Tue, 02 Sep 2025 23:24:00 +0000

60 Years of Nursing Excellence at ��سԹ�

By Jackie Bridges

“When you drink the water, don’t forget who dug the well.”
Dr. Shirley Putnam Toney, ��سԹ� dean and professor emerita of nursing

Dean and Professor Emerita of Nursing Dr. Shirley Putnam Toney enjoyed a career that spanned more than half a century at ��سԹ�. As an early leader of the school’s nursing program, Toney acknowledges that establishing the nursing school was a collaborative effort.

As the Hunt School of Nursing (HSON) celebrates its 60th anniversary in 2025–26, Toney honors the school’s forerunners who “dug the well,” for her generation and the next. Of the school’s six leaders, four were Toney’s students.

Bold visionaries like Toney and Grace Lee—the driving forces behind nursing education at GWU—led with intelligence, integrity, resilience, humility, and service.

“Dr. Shirley Putman Toney is a legendary nurse educator not only at GWU but across our state and region,” said Dr. Anna Hamrick, former HSON director and student at ��سԹ� from 1999 to 2003. “I always admired her confident presence and her unwavering advocacy for her students and nursing program. She showed deep respect for her colleagues and never missed a chance to celebrate their accomplishments.”

Nursing Education Begins at GWU

Lee, the director of the Rutherford Hospital School of Nursing, and Toney worked at the hospital together from 1963–65. The hospital’s nursing programs had become too expensive, so Lee investigated the Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program, a curriculum developed to reduce repetition and provide additional structured learning experiences in collegiate settings.

Lee already had an affiliation with ��سԹ�, so she and Toney met frequently with Dr. Eugene Poston, then president of ��سԹ�, and local hospital administrators to help bring the ADN program to GWU.

In 1965, ��سԹ� welcomed the first 45 nursing students. The department’s shared space featured modest nursing supplies including a bed, some equipment, a manikin, and a movie projector—all donated by Rutherford Hospital.

In 1970, the ��سԹ� Nursing School was one of the first two ADN programs in the state to become nationally accredited. When Lee retired in 1978, Toney became the School of Nursing chair and was later named its first dean.

Nursing School Expands Programs

From the 1980s through the 2000s, Toney helped grow the University’s nursing programs to meet the needs of a changing health care landscape. For her profound influence, Toney received the ��سԹ� Founders Medal in 2024.

One of her lasting contributions is the Registered Nurse (RN) to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. The RN to BSN completion program was funded by a grant from the Kate B. Reynolds Trust, the Davis Trust, and Waggoner Foundation of Statesville, N.C. It was later renamed the Davis Nursing Program, and today it’s offered fully online.

I was first introduced to the School of Nursing when I entered the ADN program out of high school. The community I found within the nursing program and at the University led me to continue my education in the HSON at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels. Early in my educational journey, I came to appreciate the faculty’s dedication to the personal and professional growth of their students, which led me to continue my educational journey.
Dr. Tracy Arnold, ’02, ’04, ’06 and ’12
Associated Dean, College of Health Science

Toney also established a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program, which officially launched in 2001. Under her guidance, ��سԹ�’s nursing programs gained full accreditation.

“We kept up with the things that were going on in the country and were always affiliated with our professional associations,” Toney stated. “I’m delighted and overjoyed at the success of our programs. We are not just measured against local people; we are measured against people all over the country.”

When Toney stepped down, Dr. Rebecca “Susie” Beck-Little became dean. Under her leadership, ��سԹ� welcomed its first cohort in the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program in 2010. At that time, the only established DNP program was located at Duke University in Durham, N.C.

In January 2013, the MSN–Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) program began. Dr. Sharon Starr was named dean of the nursing school that summer. Starr received her ADN from ��سԹ� in 1976 and had previously served as a member of the GWU nursing faculty from 2001–04.

Hunt Gift Secures GWU Nursing’s Future

In 2014, ��سԹ� purchased the former Crawley Memorial Hospital to house the College of Health Sciences. A month later, N.C. Rep. Dr. Jack Hunt and his wife, Ruby, established the HSON to provide a scholarship, program enhancements, renovations of nursing facilities, and educational technology.

Starr coordinated the move, relying on the faculty’s expertise for setting up the simulation labs and offices. “That was such a meaningful experience, because it helped the nursing school in so many different ways, and it was a blessing to meet Jack Hunt and his wife, Ruby, and to know the kind of people they were,” Starr reflected. “I was so proud that the school of nursing would be named after somebody of their stature and who were such kind, generous people.”

The Hunts, of Lattimore, N.C., were community leaders and supporters of higher education. For 22 years, Jack served in the North Carolina General Assembly. In 2012, Hunt was awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters from ��سԹ�. A member of the GWU Board of Trustees, he was honored in 2020 with the title of trustee emeritus. Jack and Ruby received North Carolina’s Order of the Long Leaf Pine for their many contributions to the state.

Interim Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Nicole Waters was named HSON dean when Starr retired in 2017. An alumna, Waters developed a relationship with the Hunts and understood the significance of their gift. “Dr. and Mrs. Hunt demonstrated a genuine interest in health care trends and nursing education, often engaging in meaningful discussions on these topics, usually accompanied by a sincere invitation to share a meal at their home,” Waters said. “Their heartfelt commitment to advancing the nursing profession extended beyond ��سԹ�, reaching the broader community and state, helping countless students fulfill their calling to become nurses and nurse educators.”

HSON Faculty Look to the Future

The faculty developed curricula for the Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program, Doctor of Nursing Practice–Family Nurse Practitioner (DNP-FNP), and the Doctor of Nursing Practice–Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (DNP-PMHNP) program. To meet the need for mental health providers, HSON leaders obtained a grant from the Fullerton Foundation to help start the DNP-PMHNP. The first students enrolled in these DNP programs in the fall of 2019.

The School of Nursing has profoundly influenced my academic, professional, and spiritual life. The faculty demonstrated a Christ-centered approach, providing academic support, prayer, mentorship, and personal encouragement. These meaningful experiences inspired me to pursue a faculty position in the School of Nursing later. As a faculty member, I discovered a community that nurtured intellectual curiosity, scholarly engagement, and leadership development. Now, as an administrator, I feel deeply honored to contribute to the legacy of the nursing programs. I take great pride in the rich history, mission and ongoing excellence of the Hunt School of Nursing.

Dr. Nicole Waters, ’06 and ’14
Interim Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs

“As a result, more registered nurses and nurse practitioners are entering the workforce, directly contributing to improved health care delivery in their communities,” said Dr. Tracy Arnold, former dean/director of HSON and current associate dean of the College of Health Sciences. “Additionally, we were able to expand our resources to include state-of-the art equipment and lab spaces to simulate realistic work environments in an effort to bridge the gap between classroom instruction and professional practice.”

With funding from the Golden LEAF Foundation to address regional health workforce shortages, donations from GWU supporters, and other grants, the nursing faculty are prepared to lead the HSON into its next century and to prepare the next generation of highly skilled, compassionate nurses.

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Connor Settlemyre’s Journey in Music and Mentorship

��سԹ� — Tue, 02 Sep 2025 20:27:17 +0000

Award-winning Graduate Becomes GWU’s First Student Chosen for National Ensemble

By Jackie Bridges

As ��سԹ� May 2025 graduate Connor Settlemyre embarks on his new position as band director at South Point High School in Gastonia, N.C., he has many examples of great leaders to imitate. Like his parent, he is a percussionist and was influenced by her interest in music along with his relative and sibling. Then, the sincerity and passion of his high school band director inspired him to become a music educator.

At ��سԹ�, the Department of Music faculty also modeled effective leadership while helping him develop his talents. They played a role in Settlemyre’s decision to attend GWU too. “After my audition for the department, I received a handwritten letter from Dr. Eric Johnson welcoming me into the department,” Settlemyre shared. “I actually still have this letter and keep it on my desk to this day. The student-faculty relationships that I knew would develop strongly pulled me towards ��سԹ�.”

Settlemyre earned a Bachelor of Arts in music education with a minor in youth discipleship studies. At the May 2025 graduation ceremony, he won the Most Outstanding Graduate Medal, an honor voted on by the faculty to recognize leadership, citizenship and academic excellence.

“A good leader is the product of many good leaders pouring into them,” Settlemyre reflected. “Leaders are selfless and desire group success rather than personal gain. A good leader listens, communicates clearly, makes thoughtful decisions, and brings out the strengths of a team. Leadership is not just about giving orders, rather it’s about setting an example, building trust, and empowering people to do their best.”

The sum of everything he learned from his mentors created a one-of-a-kind opportunity for him during his senior year. Settlemyre was selected to perform for the National Small Band Programs Intercollegiate Band. He became the first student from GWU to achieve this honor. Along with other college musicians from around the country, he performed at the 2025 National Conference of the College Band Directors National Association in Fort Worth, Texas.

“Being selected for this National Intercollegiate Honor Band truly feels like a capstone achievement for my collegiate career,” Settlemyre asserted. “Coming into ��سԹ� as a 17-year-old freshman, I never really thought it would be a possibility to perform in a national ensemble. The music department faculty, especially Dr. (Sarah) Fabian, has poured countless hours into me, pushing me to improve every day.”

Fabian, ��سԹ� director of Bands, traveled with Settlemyre to the conference. “I am incredibly proud of Connor for his dedication, hard work, and leadership over the past three years I have known him,” Fabian praised. “From day one, he has gone above and beyond to refine his skills, constantly seeking opportunities to grow both as a musician and as a leader within our music department. His selection to perform in the National Honor Band is a testament to his passion, perseverance and exceptional talent.”

Once he was chosen, Settlemyre received music excerpts to practice and recorded videos of himself performing. Before the event he was told he would sit as fourth chair percussionist in the national ensemble. On the day of the concert, after practicing 72 hours and getting to know the other musicians from around the country, Settlemyre was ready for the audience to hear the music.

The experience taught him techniques to improve as a performer, and an educator. “I learned so much from our conductor about how to captivate a group,” Settlemyre affirmed. “He did a fantastic job at keeping us engaged despite the long hours of rehearsal. This experience was life changing, and I will never forget it. I also want to thank Dr. Fabian for believing in me enough to even bring this possibility to me. Dr. Fabian has been with me every step of my collegiate career since she arrived at ��سԹ�, and I am forever grateful for the impact she has left on my life. I also want to thank the music department for supporting me on this crazy journey. None of this would have been possible without the support of the faculty.”

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Guiding Generations

��سԹ� — Tue, 02 Sep 2025 20:17:42 +0000

Pam Scruggs Reflects on 45 Years of Transformative Service

After 45 years of unwavering service, Pam Scruggs retired from ��سԹ� in spring 2025, leaving behind a profound legacy marked by leadership, mentorship, and steadfast devotion to the student-athletes she served. Honored with emeritus status—a rare and distinguished recognition—Scruggs departs as one of the University’s longest-serving staff members.

Joining ��سԹ� in 1980 as an administrative assistant to Athletics Director Dan Moore, Scruggs quickly became a cornerstone of the athletics department. Though she briefly stepped away to work in food services, she returned to athletics in the mid-1980s, ultimately rising to associate athletics director and senior women’s administrator. Her impact spanned decades and touched countless lives.

“I always felt like this is where the Lord wanted me to be,” Scruggs reflected. “This is home.”

Over the years, Scruggs became synonymous with ��سԹ� Athletics. Known for her calm demeanor, attention to detail, and remarkable dependability, she was the department’s go-to person. Whether solving complex logistics or offering quiet mentorship, Scruggs’ leadership was felt by student-athletes and colleagues alike.

“Being calm helps,” she said. “Approaching things level-headed lets you handle situations the best way possible. And if you’re going to do something, do it—and do it well.”

Nowhere was her influence more visible than in women’s athletics. As senior women’s administrator, she guided young female athletes through the rigors of sport and scholarship, celebrating their growth on and off the field. “It’s hard to be a student-athlete,” she acknowledged. “But to watch those young women succeed—balancing games, travel, academics—it says a lot about what they’ve learned at ��سԹ�.”

Honored with emeritus status— a rare and distinguished recognition—Scruggs departs as one of the University’s longest-serving staff members.

One former volleyball player stands out in her memory—a student she once feared wouldn’t graduate. “She was headed down the wrong road,” Scruggs recalled. “But I spent time with her, listened. Now she has a family of her own, and her children are preparing for college. That’s the reward—seeing them thrive.”

In 2009, ��سԹ� inducted her into its Athletics Hall of Fame. She also received the Paris Yelton Memorial Award in 2015 for her service to community sports and was named GWU Staff Member of the Year. Perhaps most meaningful is the annual Pam Scruggs Student-Athlete Advisory Committee Leadership Award, given to student-athletes who embody the character and commitment Scruggs exemplified.

“It’s humbling,” she said. “I hope long after I’m gone, students will see that name and understand how much I loved this place.”

Her relationships with faculty mentors like the late Dr. Barry Hambright and Dr. Tony Eastman inspired her own approach to mentorship. “They left a lasting impression on me,” she shared. “I’ve tried to pass that on.”

One of Scruggs’ proudest memories came during the historic 2022–23 season, when the ��سԹ� women’s basketball team delivered a performance for the ages. The team captured both the Big South Conference regular season and tournament titles, becoming the first basketball team—men’s or women’s—in Big South Conference history to complete league play undefeated. Their dominance extended beyond the record books, earning the team a wave of accolades including Big South Player of the Year, Coach of the Year, and multiple all-conference selections. For Scruggs, the experience was unforgettable. “Maybe because I’m female,” she laughed, “But that moment was glorious. To witness it—just incredible.”

Though officially retired, Scruggs’ legacy continues in the culture she helped shape and the student lives she helped transform. When asked how she’d like to be remembered, she said: “Dependable. Faithful. Encouraging. Grateful.”

For ��سԹ�, Pam Scruggs is all those things—and more.

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The Past Has a Future

��سԹ� — Tue, 02 Sep 2025 20:03:27 +0000

Emeritus Recognition Caps Dr. David Yelton’s 35-Year Journey of Scholarship and Service at GWU

By Jackie Bridges

On the last day of class in History 331, ��سԹ� professor of history Dr. David Yelton handed each student a thank you note. Mostly history majors, they had given him a retirement party the week before. This gesture spoke volumes about Yelton’s devotion to his students during his 35 years at the University. “I will say that nothing is more meaningful to me as a professor than having a student express their appreciation for my efforts to help them grow in knowledge, ability and confidence,” Yelton shared. “That’s why I’ve spent some 92 semesters in higher education.”

In teaching the value of communication, critical-thinking skills, and researching a question or problem, Yelton was a champion for academic integrity. He played an instrumental role in the creation of the Academic Honesty Policy, helping create a system to track, identify and, as warranted, punish repeat offenders.

At his retirement, Yelton was named professor emeritus of history for his years of service and contributions to ��سԹ�. When the announcement was made, the faculty responded with a standing ovation. “That was as much of a reward that I could have asked for—they were essentially saying you did a good job,” Yelton said. “Coming from your colleagues, it makes all the struggles along the way worth it.”

Yelton, a Rutherford County, N.C., native, applied for a position at ��سԹ� in 1990. A one-year commitment, he was asked to stay when professor Dr. Gil Blackburn moved into administration. Yelton established himself as a faculty leader, serving as coordinator for Secondary Education Social Studies Teacher Licensure from 1992 to 2012, chair of the department from 2002-07, chair of the faculty from 2007-09, and assistant provost for Arts & Sciences from 2016-20. He was also a member of the groups that built the Professional Readiness Experience (PRE) and that established the information literacy requirement.

Yelton’s professor at Appalachian State, Dr. Rennie Brantz, inspired him to become a college professor and further developed his childhood fascination with German history. After earning his bachelor’s in history from Appalachian State, Yelton received his master’s (1985) and Ph.D. (1990) from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He narrowed his focus to examine the citizen militia of Nazi Germany. “I selected it as a dissertation topic because at that time it had never been thoroughly studied,” Yelton offered. “Once I began researching the topic, I found that there had been little work in English on the German perspective of the end of the war.”

Yelton is the author of two books, Hitler’s Volkssturm: The Nazi Militia and the Fall of Germany 1944-45 (University Press of Kansas, 2002) and Hitler’s Home Guard: Volkssturmman, Western Front, 1944–1945 (Osprey Publishing, 2006), and in 2020 he received the Vandervort Prize from the Journal of Military History for his article “Older German Officers and National Socialist Activism: Evidence from the German Volkssturm,” published in the April 2019 issue. “To have it recognized as expanding our knowledge of the Third Reich made all the long and tedious hours of research, writing and editing more than worthwhile,” Yelton related. “It’s an affirmation of knowing that your scholarly work is appreciated by your peers and an acknowledgement that your work makes a difference. Vandervort was the editor who approved the draft of this article with the recommendation of several readers, so that adds to the honor.”

Yelton emphasized to his students the value of examining a topic, and knowing how to conduct in-depth research are essential skills that go beyond history majors.

“One of the key things studying history does is to give you a broader perspective of time,” Yelton observed. “American culture is notoriously short-term oriented. Businesspeople always talk about the next quarter. One of the basic skills you need in any profession is to be able to step back from things and have a more strategic longer-term perspective. History forces you into doing that. Everything is connected; history is just a long chain of causes and results.”

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Led by Faith, Lifted by Community

��سԹ� — Tue, 02 Sep 2025 19:51:04 +0000

Tucker Scholar Kylee Morris Reflects on Finding Her Purpose at ��سԹ�

By Jackie Bridges

When senior Kylee Morris shares her journey to ��سԹ�, her faith in God is evident. With her confident demeanor, engaging smile and intuitive responses, Morris won the favor of judges and became the third recipient of ��سԹ�’s highest honor for incoming undergraduate students, the Tucker Heart, Soul, Mind and Strength Scholarship.

Like the verses from Mark’s gospel, which are the basis of the scholarship, Morris “loves the Lord her God with all her heart, soul, mind and strength; and loves her neighbor as herself.”

She believes God led her to find ��سԹ� through an internet search, and He blessed her with the Tucker Scholarship. “Your life can change in such a good way in a split second,” Morris stated. “I was so overwhelmed with the fact that I was able to pursue my dreams and further my education without having this worry of financial burden. God opened the door.”

Arriving on campus, Morris was excited to explore the academic and extracurricular opportunities. An athlete and a musician in high school, she decided to participate in music ensembles and joined the percussion section of the revived ��سԹ� Marching Bulldogs, led by Dr. Sarah Fabian. “The band really has given me a family that I know I’m going to carry with me for such a long time, even after I leave,” Morris affirmed.

Morris’ schedule is full as a biology major, biomedical sciences concentration, with minors in chemistry and psychology. In addition, she is a teacher assistant in the chemistry lab. “It doesn’t really feel like work to me; it feels like play,” Morris related. “I love doing what I do.”

Morris chose biology to prepare for the medical field and possibly become a surgeon. Then, during her sophomore year, she started wondering about other options in the medical field. Feeling like God planted the seed; she researched and found cytology.

The field immediately appealed to Morris, because her classes in microbiology and organic chemistry had sparked her interest in the laboratory setting. Shortly after reading about cytology, Morris was introduced to alumna Celsea Reeder, who visited the science department to share about her studies in cytotechnology, the microscopic study of cells. “It felt like a confirmation,” said Morris.

Besides juggling band and academic commitments, Morris also has a small business, “Kylee Creates.” She makes crafts out of rubber bands. A hobby she started in elementary school, she picked it up again after she joined the Art Club at GWU. The craft has been a creative outlet for her.

Morris branched out in other ways this past year, experiencing a hundred-foot bungee free fall, whitewater rafting, and entering and winning the Miss GWU pageant. When she won, Morris vaguely remembers being crowned and walking across the stage. “The only voice I heard was my mom,” she reflected. “I look out and see my mom and my grandparents, and they’re all crying.”

The people who lead the pageant are some of her biggest supporters on campus, especially Jessika Raduly, associate director in the Office of Student Engagement. “Jess is a mom at heart, and the students here are her kids,” Morris described. “She does anything she can to make sure they are well looked after, and they are loved. She’s someone who can always bring light even if you’re in the middle of something dark, and she always lets you know, ‘I’m praying for you.’”

Raduly fits Morris’ definition of a leader—someone who uses their resources and their influence to help people reach a common goal. “Leadership isn’t about stepping on anyone’s toes or stepping over someone else; it’s pulling people up with you,” she noted.

Morris is thankful for all the people who contribute to the campus atmosphere of belonging. “Everyone here who is on a walk with Christ, no matter where they’re at, they’re given a space to be on that walk,” she said. “I’m just so thankful for all of the things I’ve been able to experience. God has really shown me over this last year that He is working … He is moving and He is making His presence known. This campus is truly so wonderful, because they follow that mission: for God and for humanity, and it truly is something so special.”

About the Tucker Heart, Soul, Mind and Strength Scholarship

The award includes full-tuition, room and board for eight semesters. Carolyn and Robert Tucker created the scholarship in 2019 to annually recognize a high school senior who exemplifies the principles and values representative of the ��سԹ� community. Longtime benefactors of ��سԹ�, the Tuckers gave $5.5 million to help build the Tucker Student Center. The qualifications are based on the Tucker family’s life verse, Mark 12:30-31. In this passage, Jesus gives the two most important commandments: “Love the Lord Your God with all your heart, soul, mind and strength; and love your neighbor as yourself.”

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��سԹ� Receives $1.85 Million Transformative Gift

��سԹ� — Tue, 02 Sep 2025 19:40:17 +0000

Donation Enhances Athletics, Residence Halls and ��سԹ�

��سԹ� has received one of the largest single contributions in the last 25 years—an initial $1.75 million. Just one week later, the donors added an additional $100,000, bringing the total to $1.85 million. This generous donation will impact all areas of campus life.

“This transformative gift is a powerful affirmation of ��سԹ�’s mission and the life-changing impact this institution has on our students and their families,” said Interim President Nate Evans. “It reflects not only deep gratitude but also great vision, investing in our facilities, academic programs, and student life so that ��سԹ� can continue to change lives. We are incredibly grateful for this generosity and inspired by the trust it places in our future.”

The $1.85 million gift is funding a series of athletic, residential and academic enhancements—many of which are already completed or nearing completion. Over the summer, new turf was installed at Spangler Stadium, and the court in Paul Porter Arena has been replaced. A major renovation of Nanney Hall took place, along with updates to additional residence halls and apartments. The final portion of the gift is enhancing technology, equipment and computers for the Department of Communication, Art and Design.

The donors were motivated to give because they saw the positive impact that the GWU community—faculty, staff and students—had on their son’s Christian walk. “��سԹ� is a unique and rare gem in higher education,” they said. “The school has blessed our son in a variety of ways. GWU offered an environment where he could thrive and grow both professionally and spiritually. He was also instrumental in identifying certain areas that would benefit from our financial support, and we wanted to honor that as well.”

They felt strongly about directly supporting the ��سԹ� mission and encourage others to financially support the University. “God has his hand on GWU and this is evident every time we set foot on campus,” the donors said. “God’s calling to support GWU was an easy ‘YES.’ We hope that other families with the capacity to give will experience the same calling.”

With their contribution to ��سԹ�, they wanted to bless the people who had become friends over the last four years. “Our son developed strong relationships with his peers, academic, administrative and coaching staffs,” the parents said. “We have developed meaningful relationships with some key administrators and have enjoyed our many visits to Shelby/Boiling Springs. We feel a real connection to GWU, and it’s all because of the people.”

Upgrades to Nanney and other residence halls will directly impact the daily lives of ��سԹ� students, observed Vice President for Student Development and Dean of Students Lesley Villarose. “We are excited about the transformation this will bring,” Villarose said. “The investment in new residence hall furniture is more than just a physical upgrade—it is an investment in the comfort, well-being, and community experience of our students. These refreshed living spaces will enhance students’ ability to rest, study, and connect with others, helping to create a true home away from home.”

The turf and basketball court upgrades will provide a foundation to improve the student-athletes’ experience. Interim Vice President of Athletics Chuck Burch noted the previous football turf was installed in 2014. “Turf fields usually last eight to 10 years, so our field has held up well considering how much we have used it,” Burch noted. “Replacing the turf and shock pad under the turf allows us to provide our student-athletes the safest environment possible.”

Additionally, Burch explained the need for a new arena court. The Runnin’ Bulldogs are playing on the same court surface since the Convocation Center opened in 1982. “After multiple sanding and refinishes, there were numerous dead spots throughout the court,” he stated.

The equipment for the Department of Communication, Art and Design will support numerous academic programs. Associate Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences Dr. Jennifer Buckner assessed the gift’s impact. “This lab provides industry-standard technology that will support photography, videography and digital designs in a tech-forward learning environment, preparing students for future careers,” Buckner said. “We are excited to see how this lab enhances department strengths, such as our sports and commercial photography or our student-produced films for the International Real to Reel Festival.”

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Embracing CommUNITY

��سԹ� — Tue, 10 Sep 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Acts of Service Impact ��سԹ� Campus and Extend to International Neighbors

At ��سԹ�, service is woven into the fabric of the campus community. From classrooms and club meetingsto athletic fields and courts, the University’s motto, “Pro Deo et Humanitate”—for God and Humanity—is more than words first engraved on the 1928 GWU seal. It’s a call to action that impacts the surrounding community, the nation and the globe.

“Serving God and Humanity is a high priority and of utmost importance for us,” Vice President and University Chaplain for Christian Life and Service Dr. Josh Parrott observed. “I’m thankful for and inspired by students who continually look for opportunities to follow the pattern of service left to us by King Jesus.”

Like a magnet, the servant attitude attracts students, faculty and staff to the University. The newest Tucker Scholar, Lily Streeton, of High Point, N.C., sensed it when she came for her scholarship interview. “I can see how everyone cares about each other, and they put God first as well,” Streeton asserted. “I’m looking forward to meeting new people, having new experiences, seeing other communities that I can get involved in, and finding some additional family.”

Streeton has plenty of options—and the descriptions that follow are a mere snapshot of all the ways ��سԹ� promotes community.

This year, students, staff and faculty participated in mission trips to Florida, Eswatini (formerly known as Swaziland), Kentucky, New Mexico, and Guatemala, where they performed various jobs in hospitality, construction, medical clinics and ministry.

Hope Saunders, ��سԹ� assistant director of Student Engagement, noted that in 2023-24 there were 37 clubs on campus. They hosted 48 service events, engaged 541 unique club members, and sponsored a total of 861 events for members.

Service is built into the UNIV 111 curriculum, a course that introduces first-year students to college life and promotes personal and academic development. On average, these students complete over 800 hours of community service each year.

For three years now, ��سԹ� and the Town of Boiling Springs celebrate the Town-Gown partnership with an all-day street festival, Webbstock. The event continues to grow, drawing local vendors and bringing the campus, community and region together for free music performances.

Many groups and athletic teams lend a helping hand to the Boiling Springs, N.C., Community Garden. Organized in 2022 by individuals and churches, garden members grow and share fruits and vegetables with people in need or local food ministries.

Garden representative Don Pittman shared how GWU football players worked in the garden to put down landscape fabric, install 25 raised garden beds and fill the plots with soil. At least five other GWU groups, teams or clubs volunteered to work that first year.

Since then, various groups ranging in number from five to 25 planted seeds, pulled weeds, constructed additional raised garden plots, assisted with construction of a wheelchair ramp, placed pavers for handicapped access to the garden, and helped to install an irrigation system. ��سԹ� students created T-shirt and location sign designs for the garden. The University has also provided monetary support. Pittman asserted, “We consider GWU to be a Boiling Springs Community Garden partner.”

��سԹ� students and student-athletes also encourage school children. On most Fridays during the academic year, student-athletes visit one or both local elementary schools to encourage these children to celebrate learning opportunities. Other teams and groups go regularly to read, do homework or play with the children at the Boys and Girls Club in Shelby, N.C., or the satellite club at Springmore Elementary in Boiling Springs.

Shortly after new Head Football Coach Cris Reisert arrived on campus, he arranged for the football team to “paint the town red.” The players went to read and play with children at Springmore and Boiling Springs elementary schools. Reisert said, “It was incredible to see the impact our players had on those they served and to see the impact that was made on our players.”

In the 2023 Fall Semester, members of the GWU softball team volunteered 227 hours at the Boys and Girls Club in Shelby and served another 300 hours doing various projects in the community. Head Coach Bailey Wigness said the team enjoys their time at the club.

“Kids look up to college athletes, and I am proud of how this team is using their platform,” Wigness affirmed. “The game of softball has given us all so much; it is important to me that we never take that for granted and give something back whenever we can. At some point softball will end for us all, but the impact we can make on others’ lives will last forever.”

Softball team member Taylor Perry explained what spending time at the club means to her. “I feel blessed to contribute to the growth and well-being of the kids within the community,” she shared. “The joy and gratitude reflected in the children’s voices makes every moment spent at the club a truly rewarding and humbling privilege.”

“I always look forward to working with GWU students. This partnership that has been created is much appreciated and much needed. Working with caring young people is a blessing.”
Jada Hardin, volunteer coordinator for Feeding Kids Cleveland County

While investing time with young children brings immediate recognition, serving in menial, less noticeable ways often brings no acknowledgement. The Student Government Association (SGA) and the revamped Fellowship of Christians United in Service (FOCUS) sponsor and volunteer for campus clean-up days. They pick up litter and fish trash out of the creek. Their only visible reward is muddy shoes, dusty faces and dirty clothes.

FOCUS Co-coordinator Anna Sample said offering service events on campus helped to revitalize this group that before had one main purpose: to lead youth retreats for local churches. When Sample took on her role, she knew her job would be to inject new life into the dwindling ministry.

Trevor Wester agreed to help coordinate, and they recruited others to serve on a leadership team and participate in various ways. They soon had a list of people who wanted to help, from picking up trash to leading worship. For each event, they sent out an email requesting help, and volunteers responded.

Sophomore Kate Harrison joined the FOCUS ministry team. She affirmed, “I serve, because it is an honor to have the opportunity to be the hands and feet of Jesus out of an overflow of His love towards us.”

SGA members also volunteer 320 hours per academic year to pack bags of groceries for children they don’t know. The bags are distributed by Feeding Kids Cleveland County to families who struggle to provide food whenever children are home on the weekends and during school breaks.

Jalen Fearrington, a senator at large, said participating in the act of service is uplifting. If he’s had a bad day, packing food changes his whole attitude. “It’s a pleasure to be able to just help kids,” he asserted. “We take things for granted, but this brightens my day to help them get food and be a part of the process, because helping other SGA members is also a bonding experience.”

Jada Hardin is the volunteer coordinator for Feeding Kids Cleveland County. There are several jobs to be done at the organization’s warehouse, such as pack snack bags and delivery boxes, put cardboard boxes together, deliver food boxes and books, process books, clean the building, stock shelves, collect food and various other tasks.

She’s had numerous opportunities to work with students from ��سԹ�—from undergraduate to graduate students and student-athletes in all programs. “Our success in feeding kids all over Cleveland County is due to all the volunteers that have helped us through the years, and the GWU students have played a big part,” Hardin asserted. “I can truly say that working with the GWU students has always been a joy. They are hard workers, very polite and respectful to me as well as each other.”

Hardin added, “I always look forward to working with GWU students. This partnership that has been created is much appreciated and much needed. Working with caring young people is a blessing. We at Feeding Kids appreciate and would like to say to all the staff that have contacted us to set up volunteer opportunities for their students, ‘Thank you and please continue.’”

On the pages that follow, you’ll be introduced to:

Students and student-athletes, who engage and inspire the campus and community.
Faculty and staff, who teach, mentor and model service and leadership.
Alumni, who carry the University’s mission into their homes, workplaces and communities.

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Engaging Hopes and Dreams Around the Table

��سԹ� — Tue, 10 Sep 2024 15:30:00 +0000

Matt, ’97, and Michelle, ’96, Norman Building Community Relationships

By Marv Knox

A 2017 meeting in a Spanish city hall typifies Michelle and Matt Norman’s ministry in northeastern Spain. By that time, they had been Cooperative Baptist Fellowship (CBF) field personnel in the semi-autonomous region of Catalonia about four years. Their progressing proficiency in both the Catalan and Spanish languages had enabled them to develop deepening relationships, especially with local churches and surrounding communities.

While visiting with Pastor Nelson Araujo and his congregation in Vilanova, just down the Mediterranean coast from their home in Barcelona, they brainstormed “a bunch of ideas” for meeting needs of at-risk and underserved people. “We said: ‘We think these are good ideas, but we’re not experts,’” Matt recalled. They knew this was something bigger than themselves, and that coordinating with the community leaders was essential for success.

City officials and Christian ministers together sketched out a hunger-relief program—the city would pay for the food and provide the space, and the church would provide the volunteers.

Out of that collaboration, Espai Sopem—Catalan for “dinner space,” or “the place where we eat”—was born.

“They developed a system that provides really nutritious meals from the local schools,” Michelle reported. “We trained volunteers on food safety and nutrition, as well as social services in the town. And then people would come, and volunteers would sit down and eat with them. Espai Sopem helps people avoid homelessness and also find social services. They often don’t trust the government, but they trust relationships.”

The ministry thrived, and along the way, it has become a part of the culture of the community, with hope for the future.

“When city people realized this was being offered by a church, they were surprised that a church was actually living its faith,” Matt said. “But they wanted to help, and now more volunteers come from the city than from the church. But that supports relationship-building, and the ministry runs on two tracks—to volunteers and to recipients.”

The seeds of a thriving ministry took root because the Normans chose to be active and engaged in listening to community needs. They developed rich relationships beyond the walls and borders of the church. They put their energies into making others’ dreams come true. They expressed compassion. And they persisted. Now, hungry people are fed. Hurting people receive aid, and people see Jesus in a brighter light.

Despite what outsiders might expect from following the news, the Catalonian mindset does not translate into isolation or indifference to others.

“It’s a very city-based society,” Michelle said. “People are very concentrated, and they move on public transit. And they walk through the city—to the grocery store, to the doctor’s office, to their kids’ school. So, they interact with people a lot.”

“They know their neighbors, and there’s a very strong sense of community among the people of Catalonia,” she continued. “And with that comes a strong sense of solidarity. People connect and feel a sense of fighting for one another, joining one another in their struggles.”

In that context, “the most important work we’re doing here is bearing witness to Jesus Christ,” Matt said.

Sometimes, that means talking to Catalonians about their perception of God and Christianity. Other times, bearing witness means helping people “see glimpses of the Spirit of Christ in the community,” he added. “We see people who are not religious engage with refugees and open their homes, (and) they’re not doing it because of any faith, but just because they see people
as humans.”

The Normans are involved in numerous other community ministries including:

�Ѳ��á��Գٳܰ��: A ministry for immigrant women and their children. This ministry serves many women who are victims of spousal abuse.
Mosaic: A weekly worship/outreach ministry of First Baptist Church in Sabadell.
Cerdanyola Food Bank: Located on the northern edge of Barcelona, it helps to ensure immigrants and Spanish people on the edge of survival have enough to eat.
PapaAdventura: A parenting support ministry for single fathers and fathers from vulnerable families.

“We tell them: ‘You know, that’s the way Jesus actually teaches us to act,’” Matt continued. “‘That’s what Jesus would do.’ And they look at us and ask, ‘How come no one’s ever told us that?’ We tell them: ‘I don’t know, but that’s Jesus calling you to do that. You’re doing the work of Jesus when you do that.’”

“It’s such a beautiful culture,” Michelle said. “I see solidarity and caring for one’s neighbor. I see God already at work in the world.” “We try not to do anything that’s not locally initiated,” Matt said. “So that means we are always listening, asking questions and coming alongside and making sure that people who grew up here, who know the culture, who speak both languages, are the ones who are initiating the ministries and think the ministry we’re doing is a good idea.”

Partnerships and relationships that grow out of long conversations with pastors and community leaders, as well as meetings with lay leaders are what the Normans feel is vital to their work.

“We’re not working with a perspective of coming in with ideas and saying what we’re going to do,” Matt explained. “We came here to learn the culture and to build relationships.”

The Normans aspiration is to support the community and help them identify and achieve their goals, but they can’t do it alone. “This is our work and our calling, but we’re not complete experts,” Michelle added. “We are encouragers and helpers. We want to help people here realize their dreams and hopes for the church. They have plenty to give.”

After a decade of serving this region, the Normans feel more can be done. Long-term commitment and long-term relationships are important to continue to build trust and understand the needs and viewpoints of the people in the community.

“Long-term presence allows your ministry to be more effective and actually start to bear fruit in ways you never could have imagined and take turns in ways you never could have expected,” Matt said.

“My hope for the future here is that we encounter even more people who are wanting to engage this community, and we’re able to encourage them to do so,” Michelle said. “My hope is that whatever is built and done here engages the hopes and dreams of our friends here. That they can express the fullness of the gospel message in a way that walks alongside the vulnerable, that breaks down the barriers the church naturally puts up between it and the community.”

Matt graduated from ��سԹ� in 1997 with a degree in communication studies and a minor in English. Michelle earned her degree in 1996 in social sciences with a religious studies minor. Matt also has a MA in Global Leadership (Fuller Theological Seminary), a Master Certificate from Manchester University in Baptistic Histories and Theologies, and will defend his PhD in Theology dissertation in the fall with the International Baptist Theological Study Centre and Vrije University in Amsterdam.

*This story has been edited for space and format; the full article was featured in the Fall 2023 Edition of fellowship! magazine. Read online at

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Campus of Champions

��سԹ� — Thu, 05 Oct 2023 20:45:00 +0000

This year, ��سԹ�’s campus community and supporters celebrated milestone after milestone. Athletics posted Big South Conference wins in football, women’s basketball, men’s tennis and track and field. Wrestling took individual titles in the Southern Conference. ��سԹ� students and faculty achieved excellence in scholarship, and alumni made notable accomplishments.

The New York Times recognized GWU as the safest campus in North Carolina. Education, nursing and public administration had significant increases in enrollment. The Office of Christian Life and Service led 47 students, faculty and staff on national and international mission trips, where individuals received the gospel of Jesus Christ. Donors eclipsed all previous one-day giving records by contributing over $1 million on Double Dawg Day.

These achievements didn’t happen overnight. Becoming a champion in any field requires hours of work from individuals who seek only the reward of doing their best and inspiring their team.

This attitude also marks a “champion of faith,” commented Vice President and University Chaplain for Christian Life and Service Dr. Josh Parrott. Paraphrasing Mark 12:30-31—the verse posted by the doors of every building on campus—he noted, “Champions direct our hearts toward God by encouraging us to love him with all of our heart, mind, soul and strength (and) direct our hands toward humanity by encouraging us to love our neighbor as ourselves.”

To define the character of a champion, Mike Griffith, head coach of the men’s tennis team and Big South Coach of the Year, singled out Johan Van Wijk and John Spring. When he took them off the starting list, they continued to train with enthusiasm and grit. “They pushed our starters and beat them a lot of times in practice,” Griffith explained. “I believe they are the reason we won the conference championship.”

The wins for the University’s Office of Advancement are no different. Over the last few years, the number of people giving to ��سԹ� has increased along with total giving. This year’s record-breaking Double Dawg Day total would not have happened without teamwork. “Championship teams win because the team is working together,” declared Vice President for Advancement Nate Evans. “We’re winning because our donors are active members of the team. They might give $10, $100 or $100,000, but everyone is putting forth effort that helps us become perennial champions.”

Alumna Sherika Montgomery, new commissioner of the Big South Conference, affirmed that champions put team above self. She was a member of the 2010 women’s basketball team that won a Big South Regular Season Championship. Those years at ��سԹ� taught Montgomery that a championship is earned with hard work, perseverance, resilience and a commitment to practice in the off season. She asserted, “Those are the things that I still, to this day, apply to any effort—whether it’s a championship, a new initiative, a new community engagement opportunity, or something we are grappling with on the national level.”

When it comes to the GWU faculty, Dr. Robert Prickett, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, noted these champions of learning constantly seek new methods to inspire students. “They are out there, trying, learning from every failure,” he described. “Whether that’s a performance in theater or an experiment in the lab or an authentic assessment in a class, they try, they learn, they adjust, they adapt, they grow—and then, do it one more time.”

Allyson Butts, 2019 Ignite Excellence Scholarship winner and current graduate student, agreed with Prickett’s assessment. She observed, “Being a champion is about how you live, not about what you achieve. A champion consistently pursues excellence, is willing to make personal sacrifices to love and support others, and lives for something greater than themselves. Maybe no one knows their names, but they touch the lives of people for the better. In my mind, that is the ultimate calling that we have as Christians.”

Within the pages of this magazine, you’ll find stories of students, student-athletes, faculty, alumni and donors who are champions living out the GWU motto in their communities: “Pro Deo et Humanitate – For God and Humanity.” They strive for excellence—not for trophies and titles—but for the people they’ve inspired to achieve their own greatness.

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Featured Story Archives - ���سԹ�

Guided by Mission, Driven by Relationships

Meet GWU Interim President Nate Evans

Drawing from the Well

60 Years of Nursing Excellence at ���سԹ�

Nursing Education Begins at GWU

Nursing School Expands Programs

Hunt Gift Secures GWU Nursing’s Future

HSON Faculty Look to the Future

Connor Settlemyre’s Journey in Music and Mentorship

Award-winning Graduate Becomes GWU’s First Student Chosen for National Ensemble

Guiding Generations

Pam Scruggs Reflects on 45 Years of Transformative Service

Honored with emeritus status— a rare and distinguished recognition—Scruggs departs as one of the University’s longest-serving staff members.

The Past Has a Future

Emeritus Recognition Caps Dr. David Yelton’s 35-Year Journey of Scholarship and Service at GWU

Led by Faith, Lifted by Community

Tucker Scholar Kylee Morris Reflects on Finding Her Purpose at ���سԹ�

���سԹ� Receives $1.85 Million Transformative Gift

Donation Enhances Athletics, Residence Halls and ���سԹ�

Embracing CommUNITY

Acts of Service Impact ���سԹ� Campus and Extend to International Neighbors

Engaging Hopes and Dreams Around the Table

Matt, ’97, and Michelle, ’96, Norman Building Community Relationships

The Normans are involved in numerous other community ministries including:

Campus of Champions

Featured Story Archives - ��سԹ�

60 Years of Nursing Excellence at ��سԹ�

Tucker Scholar Kylee Morris Reflects on Finding Her Purpose at ��سԹ�

��سԹ� Receives $1.85 Million Transformative Gift

Donation Enhances Athletics, Residence Halls and ��سԹ�

Acts of Service Impact ��سԹ� Campus and Extend to International Neighbors