Upgrades will Brighten Worship, Gatherings, and Student Performances in Campus Landmark

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—���سԹ� has received a generous $66,500 grant from The Dover Foundation to support a major lighting renovation in Dover Chapel. The project will enhance one of the University’s most treasured and historic spaces, further strengthening its role as a central gathering place on campus.

The Dover Foundation, established by members of the Dover family, reflects a longstanding legacy of generosity that has helped shape ���سԹ� for decades. Dover Chapel, named in memory of John R. Dover Jr. and built in 1972, stands as a lasting symbol of that legacy, serving as the spiritual heart of campus where worship services, student gatherings, convocations, concerts, and special events take place.

Over the years, however, the sanctuary’s aging lighting system has become increasingly inadequate for the needs of modern worship and programming. The Dover Foundation grant will fund a comprehensive lighting upgrade designed to enhance both the functionality and atmosphere of the chapel sanctuary while preserving its beauty and character.

University leaders say the project will expand both the artistic and experiential possibilities of the chapel. “This sacred space is home to a number of campus events across the academic year, including serving as the home base for ���سԹ�’s choral ensembles, departmental recitals, guest artist series concerts, and small ensemble performances,” noted Dr. Aaron M. Rice, associate professor and chair of the Department of Music. “We are so excited about the new enhancements that will make this space a destination venue for the performing arts at ���سԹ�. Our partnership with the Dover Foundation not only enhances one of our most iconic venues, it also provides an exceptional opportunity for our students’ development and growth. We’re truly grateful for the Dover Foundation’s continued investment in ���سԹ� and the Department of Music.”

While the renovation will enhance performance and event capabilities, it also holds deep significance for the chapel’s spiritual role on campus. Dr. James R. McConnell Jr., interim dean of the School of Divinity, emphasized the importance of the chapel to the University’s spiritual and academic life. “The lighting upgrade in the Dover Chapel is a welcome improvement,” McConnell shared. “Dover Chapel is a sacred space for School of Divinity chapel services, and the new lighting will further enhance the chapel as a place of worship for students and faculty.”

Dr. Josh Parrott, vice president for Christian Life and Service and University Chaplain, echoed McConnell’s sentiments, and highlighted the chapel’s broader impact on students and the campus community. “The chapel is consistently recognized as one of the University’s greatest structural assets, and it is home to several University worship services throughout the year,” Parrott emphasized. “Our students and other members of the community use the chapel for prayer, Scripture reading, and worship. Chapel improvements aid in expanding God’s kingdom, spreading the Gospel, and help as we care for the souls of our community—thank you to all who are involved in the process.”

The project includes the removal of outdated lighting fixtures and the installation of six new cross-design chandeliers equipped with energy-efficient lighting. These chandeliers will provide improved 360-degree illumination throughout the sanctuary, creating a brighter and more welcoming environment for worship services and campus events. To ensure long-term maintenance and safety, the renovation will also include motorized winch systems and cables that allow the chandeliers to be safely lowered to floor level for cleaning and servicing.

Additional improvements will include replacing ten wall-mounted light fixtures with new ones designed to complement the chapel’s architectural style while enhancing ambient lighting throughout the sanctuary. The project will also enhance the lighting around the pulpit with a new system that can be easily adjusted to match the tone and purpose of each service or event, offering clearer visibility for speakers while creating a more inviting, focused, and meaningful atmosphere for worship, ceremonies, and gatherings.

The significance of the project extends beyond infrastructure, reflecting a continued investment in the University’s mission and student experience. “The generosity of The Dover Foundation will help ensure that Dover Chapel continues to serve as a vibrant gathering place for worship, reflection, and community for generations of students,” said Candice Thomas, director of Foundation Relations and Corporate Partnerships. “This project will significantly improve the worship experience and expand the chapel’s ability to host meaningful campus events.”

���سԹ� 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., ���سԹ� prepares graduates to impact their chosen professions, equips them with the skills to advance the frontiers of knowledge, and inspires them to make a positive and lasting difference in the lives of others. Become More at .

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High School Students Explore Food Systems, Careers, and Real-World Challenges Through Immersive Event

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Cheese, strawberries and avocados became more than everyday foods for participants in ���سԹ�’s inaugural Summer Searight Scholars Program (SSP). Through hands-on learning, students explored how those items reach their plates—and why, in some communities across the United States, access to fresh and nutritious food remains a challenge.

Developed in partnership with the Foothills Workforce Development Board, the three-day program brought high school students from across the region to the ���سԹ� campus. Through immersive academic experiences, real-world problem-solving and meaningful mentorship, the students were introduced to topics including global food systems, business and marketing, artificial intelligence, and public health.

A highlight of the program was a team-based challenge in which students designed companies to address food insecurity by delivering nutritious products to food deserts in the United States. Students applied concepts learned throughout the program, such as supply chain logistics, marketing strategy and community health, in creative and impactful ways.

Foothills Workforce Development Director Annette Staley helped judge the students’ proposals and appreciated the opportunity to see what they had learned during the program. “The Foothills Workforce Development Board was proud to partner with ���سԹ� on the PACE 132 Searight Scholars Program to support students across the Foothills Region,” she acknowledged. “Through this program, students strengthened their project design and planning skills, improved their public speaking, enhanced their critical thinking, and learned techniques to manage presentation anxiety. We are grateful for the opportunity to support this initiative and look forward to helping it grow so even more students in our region can benefit from these training opportunities.”

For participants, the program offered more than academic enrichment; it created opportunities for personal growth and connection. “I’ve enjoyed collaborating with other students and getting to know people with different perspectives,” shared Lizandro Mora-Moreno, a recent graduate of Cleveland Innovation Virtual Academy.

Students also reported gaining valuable insight into both social issues and career pathways. “I learned a lot about food deserts and business. It helped me understand real challenges that people face,” observed Corbin Phillips, a ninth grader at Cleveland Early College High School.

For others, the experience sparked new academic and professional interests. “It was very engaging,” noted Christiana Williams, a senior at Kings Mountain High School, whose team won the competition with a strawberry distribution concept. “I’m now thinking about a future in marketing, and I’m even considering ���سԹ� for college.”

Participants emphasized the program’s role in expanding their knowledge and confidence. “I feel like I got an advantage,” added Jazmine Wilson, a sophomore at Kings Mountain High School. “I learned about things I may not have known until much later.”

Another judge for the team challenge was the Rev. Ray Lockhart, pastor of Ellis Chapel Baptist Church. A substitute teacher in the school system, he promoted the program to students and young people in his church and the Ebenezer Baptist Association. “I encouraged them to come, because I thought it was something positive for them that could help them with their future,” he affirmed.

The program reflects the vision of the Rev. Johnny L. Searight and his wife, Shirley P. Searight, ���سԹ� alumni who are committed to creating educational opportunities for students facing challenges similar to those they experienced. In addition to supporting this summer program, the Searights established Searight PACE, Professional and Continuing Education, focused on lifelong learning and workforce development. They also sponsor a scholarship and leadership initiative for ���سԹ� students.

The Searights also helped judged the students’ proposals. “I was just so impressed with their presentations and the hard work that they put into it,” said Shirley Searight. “They were so sharp as they stood up there. It means a lot to see this come alive and impact these students; it just starts to bubble over.”

Rev. Johnny Searight, who is pastor of Jones Tabernacle CME Church in Lawndale, N.C., reflected on how the program fulfills a lifelong goal to help others. “It’s been my dream, ever since I was a kid, that I wanted to do something for somebody because we came from a poor family,” he shared. “To see these kids, it just brings tears to my eyes and joy to my heart.” He also expressed hope that the experience will inspire students to pursue their goals with confidence and build bright futures.

���سԹ� 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., ���سԹ� 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 .

After the presentations, the students were treated to a cookout, met Bo, and participated in a campus scavenger hunt sponsored by the Admissions team.

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Participants Gain the Tools to Bring Ideas to Life

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Professionals from across the region recently completed ���سԹ�’s Grant Writing Certificate program, developing proposals designed to address real needs in education, public safety, healthcare, and community development. Now equipped with practical skills and grant plans, participants are positioned to pursue funding and turn their ideas into action.

Offered through Searight Professional and Continuing Education (PACE), the five-session course provides hands-on training in identifying funding opportunities and building competitive grant proposals. Led by Dr. Bobbie Cox, professor and director of the Master of Public Administration program, the course culminates with participants presenting a grant proposal tailored to their organization’s needs.

For many participants, the course provided a framework to turn long-recognized needs into clear, fundable initiatives. Octavia Dorsey, a ���سԹ� learning management systems administrator, focused her project on literacy, an issue she has observed firsthand through her experience as a school librarian. “There is a gap,” Dorsey said. “The community wants to blame COVID, but COVID wasn’t the problem—it just shed light on the problem.”

Through the course, Dorsey developed a proposal for “Always Learning Tutoring,” a community-based initiative designed to strengthen literacy skills and expand access to educational support.

Similarly, Kimberly Logan of Haven Center in Forest City, N.C., wrote a grant to support the organization’s “Decision Camp” program that helps young people identify their strengths, explore career pathways, and build life skills through immersive, real-world experiences. Her organization’s programming includes year-round mentorship, cultural exposure, and scenario-based learning that enables students to see the long-term impact of their choices.

Several participants used the program to respond to pressing needs in their own communities.

Marie Hicks of Hendersonville, N.C., developed a proposal for an ADA-compliant playground at Upward Elementary School, where many students come from low-income families and lack access to safe recreational space. The only equipment they have now is a dilapidated swing set with one swing.

“There’s money out there for children and adults…so many programs could use [funding] but don’t have anybody to do grant writing,” Hicks said, noting that the course opened her eyes to the full process behind securing those resources.

Her proposal emphasizes not only accessibility for children with disabilities but also the importance of inclusive spaces where students from diverse backgrounds can connect and play together.

Nicole Ross of Mt. Calvary Baptist Church in Shelby, N.C., focused on financial literacy, designing a community-based empowerment program that will offer coaching, workshops, and access to professional guidance. “We’re seeking to provide financial literacy in our community,” Ross said, describing plans for programming that includes money management, savings strategies, and entrepreneurship training.

She added that the hands-on nature of the course helped build both skill belief in her abilities. “I’m confident now that I can write a proposal,” she said. “It taught me how to communicate the need—to help people see what you’re seeing and envision what you’re trying to do.”

Other participants focused on large-scale service initiatives with regional impact. Carlie Metts of the N.C. Lions Foundation developed a proposal to expand access to vision care through a mobile screening program for underserved and rural communities. The initiative aims to remove barriers such as cost and transportation while improving early detection and treatment.

In public safety, Seth Treadway, investigations captain with the Shelby Police Department, explored funding opportunities to enhance digital forensics capabilities. “Having never done this, I can definitely see it being a benefit in the future,” Treadway said. “Especially with technological advancements that are very expensive…the city doesn’t necessarily have the funds to cover those needs.”

On campus, ���سԹ� staff also used the course to explore institutional improvements, including student technology access and long-range capital planning initiatives.

Throughout the program, participants emphasized that grant writing is more than completing an application—it is a strategic process requiring research, clarity, and attention to detail.

“I learned the small details,” Metts shared, noting the importance of staffing plans and operational considerations that go beyond the “big picture” of an idea.

Cox reinforces that perspective in her teaching, emphasizing that successful proposals begin with clearly defined needs and alignment with a funder’s mission. “The single most important lesson is that the need and the funder’s initiative have to be the same thing,” she said.

While each participant’s project is distinct, the collective impact of the program is clear. From literacy and education to healthcare, financial empowerment, and public safety, these proposals represent tangible solutions to real challenges.

Learn Grant Writing Skills to Expand Your Impact

The Grant Writing Certificate program is offered face-to-face and online, for five Fridays in May, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and awards 50 CE credits. Successful completion of the five-workshop series can be applied toward ���سԹ�’s Master of Public Administration program (10-month MPA) in ���سԹ�’s Master of Public Administration program.

Grow Your Career with Searight Pace

���سԹ�’s Searight Professional and Continuing Education (PACE) programs offer relevant professional development across the disciplines. Designed for and taught by practitioners, Searight PACE programs allow you to grow your knowledge and skills within professional networks.

Advance your career through meaningful Searight PACE credentials, offered online and in-person. Searight PACE programs are open to everyone; GWU employees, alumni, and students receive a 20% discount. See all the offerings here.

���سԹ� 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., ���سԹ� prepares graduates to impact their chosen professions, equips them with the skills to advance the frontiers of knowledge, and inspires them to make a positive and lasting difference in the lives of others. Become More at .

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Lt. Col. Michael A. Cooper, ROTC Leader, Served as the Featured Speaker

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—���سԹ� joined communities across the nation in observing Memorial Day, pausing to honor the lives of those who have died in military service to their country. First recognized nationally in 1868, Memorial Day serves as a solemn reminder of those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to freedom and the safety of others.

The University’s annual observance was held May 22 in Dover Chapel, bringing together campus and community members for a time of reflection and remembrance. Lt. Col. Michael A. Cooper, professor of military science for Wofford College Army ROTC, served as the featured speaker.

The program included a series of reflections, readings, and musical elements led by ���سԹ� faculty and staff. President Nate Evans opened the ceremony with a welcome and invocation. “Today, we pause to remember those heroes, to honor their legacy, and to express gratitude for the families who continue to carry both pride and loss,” Evans acknowledged. “We are also thankful for all who have served and continue to serve our country with honor and distinction.”

The national anthem was led by Associate Professor and Chair of the Department of Music Dr. Aaron Rice, and Adjunct Instructor and retired U.S. Air Force Colonel Dr. Jim Rennie read Psalm 93.

Evans introduced Cooper, whose career reflects a deep commitment to leadership, service, and education. Cooper joined Wofford’s staff as professor of military science in August 2025, where he educates and instructs Army ROTC cadets enrolled in the military science and leadership curriculum at Wofford, the University of South Carolina Upstate, ���سԹ�, and Converse University.

Cooper began by reflecting on the profound significance of this Memorial Day weekend as the nation approaches a historic milestone. “In less than two months, the United States will celebrate its 250th birthday—and for more than two and a half centuries, Americans have defended an extraordinary idea: that freedom is worth sacrifice,” he affirmed. “Liberty is not guaranteed, and self-government survives only when ordinary people place service before self. More than 250 years ago, beginning in 1775, farmers, blacksmiths, teachers, merchants, and pastors stepped forward to fight for independence against the most powerful empire in the world. They were not professional soldiers, but citizens willing to risk everything for future generations they would never meet.”

Cooper also noted the deep historical roots of sacrifice tied to both the region and the University. He pointed to nearby Revolutionary War battles at Kings Mountain and Cowpens that helped turn the tide of the American fight for independence, underscoring that “this region has always understood sacrifice.” He connected that legacy to Hamrick Hall, originally dedicated in 1925 to honor students from Boiling Springs High School who died in World War I. In 2021, Hamrick Hall was rededicated to recognize these and other ���سԹ� alumni who gave their lives in military service.

Emphasizing the personal cost behind that legacy and the countless others who have given their lives from then until now, Cooper added, “Today is about the empty chair at the family table, the folded flag presented to grieving families, and the quiet sacrifices history books can never fully capture. And that is why Memorial Day must never become routine or only known as a day off to barbecue or to catch an afternoon baseball game, but rather to reflect on the sacrifice that makes this the greatest nation on Earth.”

The cadets he leads today are called to carry forward that same spirit of service. Cooper prepares senior ROTC cadets to commission as officers of character for the Total Army and partners with local high schools to support Junior ROTC programs that develop citizens committed to lifelong service. A veteran of more than 20 years of military service, Cooper has completed multiple overseas tours and received numerous awards and decorations, including the Bronze Star and the Meritorious Service Medal with three oak leaf clusters.

Following Cooper’s remarks, the observance moved into the Remembrance of the Fallen. Vice President for Student Development and Dean of Students Lesley Villarose led the tribute, ringing the bell 21 times—the highest military honor—for those who died defending freedom and democracy. Associate Vice President of Marketing Wilson Brooks then played “Taps.”

The observance continued with remarks from Evans. “As the echoes of the bell fade and the solemn notes of Taps linger in our hearts, it is natural that they bring thoughts of sorrow and loss,” he shared. “Yet on this Memorial Day, we should also remember the words of General George S. Patton, who once said, ‘It is foolish and wrong to mourn the men who died. Rather we should thank God that such men lived.’ Today, we give thanks for the courage, sacrifice, and selflessness of the men and women who gave their lives in service to our nation. Their sacrifice secured freedoms that we too often take for granted. May we leave here with renewed gratitude for those who gave everything in service to our nation, and with a commitment to live lives worthy of the sacrifice they made on our behalf.”

Following Evans’ closing thoughts, Jaquan Lynch, ���سԹ� associate minister for Athletic Ministries, closed the service with a benediction.

���سԹ� 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., ���سԹ� 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 ���سԹ�.edu.

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Pharmacist Nathan Roberts’ Experience in Rural Healthcare Access Positioned Him for Service on 13-Member Board

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Since graduating from Gardner‑Webb University 12 years ago, pharmacist Nathan Roberts has expanded his skill set, taken on increasing responsibility, and demonstrated a clear capacity for leadership. His impact drew the attention of his company, CVS Health, and the notice of N.C. Governor Josh Stein, who tapped Roberts to serve on the state’s 13-member Commission for Public Health.

The Commission is authorized and directed by the N.C. General Assembly to adopt rules to protect and promote the health of the public. Four of its members are elected by the North Carolina Medical Society and nine are appointed by the governor. Members include representatives from medicine, veterinary medicine, nursing, pharmacy, dentistry, optometry, and engineering.

Roberts doesn’t know for sure, but he suspects his employer recommended him for the Commission. He noted that one of the most pressing challenges facing the N.C. Department of Public Health is providing access to care for residents in rural North Carolina.

As a district manager over the past three years, Roberts has overseen 60 different stores, in both metropolitan and rural areas. He visits stores, troubleshoots, pores over customer-service, efficiency and compliance data, and generally makes sure that the stores are running well and that employees are engaged and happy.

In September 2024, Roberts served pharmacies in Boone, Spruce Pine and West Jefferson, towns that were devasted by Hurricane Helene. “I don’t know this for a fact, but I think I got nominated from that perspective,” he reflected. “I saw firsthand how lack of patient access can lead to really difficult situations. We had stores that didn’t have power for days. Just seeing how that impacted the community and how much the community needed us opened my eyes to how much the profession of pharmacy is needed and how we have to maintain access throughout all the challenges we might face.”

Roberts entered the pharmacy profession to fulfill a calling he’s had from an early age. “I knew I wanted a career centered on helping and caring for others, even though I wasn’t initially sure what path to take,” he related. “I was first introduced to pharmacy by my brother-in-law, Dustin Hayes, who is a pharmacist. He encouraged me to explore the profession and suggested I start by gaining hands-on experience while I was a student at Gardner‑Webb.”

During his junior year, he obtained his first job as a pharmacy technician at a community pharmacy. “Through that experience, I discovered how much I valued patient interaction and the meaningful relationships pharmacists build with their patients,” he acknowledged. “I saw firsthand the impact pharmacists make every day through counseling, education, and accessibility. Pharmacists are among the most accessible healthcare professionals, and witnessing that role in action solidified my decision. Pharmacy allowed me to combine my passion for patient care with the opportunity to make a direct and lasting difference in people’s lives.”

His decision to come to ���سԹ� was influenced by family—his grandfather and parents are alumni, and his older sister, GWU Instructor of Nursing Tara Hayes, was a student at the time. His father, Chris Roberts, also taught one year at ���سԹ�.

Ultimately, the choice was his to make and shaped by his own experiences on the close-knit campus. “I knew that I was going to get the attention from my professors that I needed to be successful,” Roberts shared.

That level of personal attention stands out to him even more now as he listens to pharmacy students who work for CVS Health talk about their difficulty with organic chemistry. “I’m not saying organic chemistry was easy for me, but what made organic chemistry fun and not as challenging was the relationship that I had with Dr. (Benjamin) Brooks,” Roberts asserted. “He wanted us to be successful, and his one-on-one time helped.”

Roberts became a chemistry lab assistant and this experience gave him more hands-on opportunities to learn the subject. “When I figured out that I actually did a pretty good job at organic chemistry, it motivated me,” he noted. “Brooks definitely pushes his students to do well, and it helped me want to go into a science direction with my career.”

While he could have left ���سԹ� after two years to enter pharmacy school, Roberts said the decision to stay for all four years made a lasting difference. He noted that his third and fourth years proved especially formative, helping him develop structure, discipline, and strong relationship‑building skills.

Those same habits now guide how he prepares for meetings, connects with his teams, and leads across multiple locations as a pharmacy district leader. “I have to study for my job before I walk into a store,” Roberts said. “I have to be prepared and know what I’m talking about.”

Likewise, as a member of the Commission, Roberts studies the topics they will discuss and vote on before each meeting. The board meets once every quarter, plus any special sessions necessary to tackle timely topics.

After graduating in 2014 from ���سԹ� with a degree in biology and a minor in chemistry, Roberts received his Doctor of Pharmacy degree in 2018 from Wingate University and also went to work as a CVS Health pharmacist in Charlotte. Within a year, he moved into pharmacy management. “As I started to do that job, I realized that I actually loved leading people,” Roberts stated. “I enjoyed setting a goal and aligning my team to achieve the goal. Essentially, like any leadership job, is you’re building a culture within your team.”

Noticing Roberts’ success, his supervisor asked him if he would be interested in taking on a larger role. Roberts, ready to apply what he had learned across a broader market, responded, “I would love to try to extend my culture to 22 stores.” He attended leadership courses, received his first assignment covering a market, and enjoyed the new challenge. “I love the team aspect—finding out what motivates people— and how to help them do their job well.”

CVS Health recently moved Roberts into a territory that includes the pharmacy in Boiling Springs located across the street from ���سԹ�. When he looks over at the campus and thinks back to when he was a student, he’s reminded of how unlikely the moment once seemed. “I never knew I’d eventually oversee this one,” he remarked.

This article includes material adapted from a story written by Chuck Gordon, managing editor for Wingate University Marketing and Communications.

���سԹ� 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., ���سԹ� prepares graduates to impact their chosen professions, equips them with the skills to advance the frontiers of knowledge, and inspires them to make a positive and lasting difference in the lives of others. Become More at .

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Experienced Coach and Former Standout Athlete Tapped to Launch Runnin’ Bulldogs’ Newest Program

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Vice President for Athletics and Athletics Director Brendan Fahey has announced the hiring of the first coach of the ���سԹ� acrobatics and tumbling team. Molly Hanley, a standout collegiate athlete and the head coach at King University in Bristol, Tenn., will build the University’s new program.

“This is an exciting day for our athletic department as we announce our inaugural head acrobatics and tumbling coach,” said Fahey. “I am eager to welcome Molly to the Runnin’ Bulldogs family.  Coach Hanley understands the sport at a high level and will also embrace our institution’s values and vision for excellence.” 

Prior to arriving in Boiling Springs, Hanley spent two years as Head Coach of Acrobatics & Tumbling, Cheer, and Dance at King University. There, she directed three collegiate programs, managing recruiting, compliance, travel logistics, budgets, fundraising, and event operations. She successfully hosted the 2024 Conference Carolinas Championship while also leading her team to a conference finals championship after finishing sixth in the league standings.  

Hanley coached three student-athletes to Conference Carolinas All-Conference honors as well as seven who were named to the Conference Carolinas All-Academic Team, including a Conference Carolinas Scholar Athlete of the Year.

“I am incredibly grateful to President Nate Evans, Athletic Director Brendan Fahey, and everyone at ���سԹ� for trusting me to lead this program,” said Hanley. “From the moment I stepped on campus, the sense of community, enthusiasm surrounding a new program, and genuine care for people was evident.”

Hanley was also a standout athlete on the mats at Belmont Abbey College in Belmont, N.C., where she was a two-time first team All-Conference Carolinas performer with the Crusaders, while also being a member of the inaugural team. In addition to the individual honors, Hanley qualified for the conference championships in the event finals in both the open toss and trio pass during her time at The Abbey. 

She was a four-year captain while winning the Conference Carolinas championship in 2022 for the 450 salto toss, qualifying for the NCATA National Championships. Hanley was twice named first team All-Conference Carolinas and was a three-time member of the Belmont Abbey dean’s list.

Hanley competed in artistic gymnastics prior to pursuing an acrobatics & tumbling career in college, and is a level two coach, having served as a coach at private gym near her hometown in Tampa, Fla.

“Acrobatics & Tumbling has had such a profound impact on my life, and I’m honored to have the opportunity to build something meaningful for our future student-athletes,” added Hanley. “I look forward to developing these young women as athletes and as people while leading a program rooted in purpose, growth, and opportunity.”

Hanley earned her Bachelor of Arts in sport management with a minor in psychology from Belmont Abbey, where she was an active member of the Student Athlete Advisory Committee.

“Hanley’s passion for developing student-athletes, building a strong team culture, and establishing a championship foundation makes her the perfect person to lead this program from day one,” added Fahey.

For updates and more news on the Runnin’ Bulldogs, visit , or follow  on Instagram, X and Facebook.

���سԹ� 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., ���سԹ� prepares graduates to impact their chosen professions, equips them with the skills to advance the frontiers of knowledge, and inspires them to make a positive and lasting difference in the lives of others. Become More at .

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Alumnus and National Security Expert Patrick Woody Challenges Graduates to Stay ‘FIRED’ for Lifelong Growth and Service

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—���سԹ� celebrated the achievements of over 500 graduates on May 8 in Lutz-Yelton Convocation Center. Traditional undergraduate students were honored at 9 a.m., with graduates from master’s and doctoral programs recognized at 2 p.m.

Each ceremony began with the ringing of a replica of the Liberty Bell. As America celebrates the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence this year, it is interesting to note the significance of this bell, which is used to begin all ���سԹ� Commencement services, convocations and special assemblies. The bell was first rung in the fall of 1970 to inaugurate ���سԹ�’s first year as a senior college. The replica weighs 44 pounds and stands 15 inches high. It is one of a limited edition of 2,400 bells produced to mark the bicentenary of American Independence (1776-1976)—one for each month of the 200 years.   

���سԹ� President Nate Evans welcomed graduates and their guests to begin both ceremonies. He recognized the accomplishments of the students and thanked parents, spouses, friends, and loved ones who supported them along the way. He also expressed gratitude for the ���سԹ� faculty and staff for teaching, guiding, and mentoring students to achieve their goals.

Each commencement program also included remarks and greetings from GWU Chair of the Board of Trustees the Rev. Dr. M. Lamont Littlejohn Jr. He congratulated their success and challenged them to carry the values that define ���سԹ� with them—to live “Pro Deo et Humanitate,” for God and Humanity.   

During the undergraduate ceremony, Student Body President Andrea Stampone addressed her classmates, reflecting on the defining role of kindness and community in the Gardner‑Webb experience.

“My charge to you today is to carry this kindness into all walks of life that you may enter,” Stampone stated. “Treat people with kindness. Be a person who needs people. Be someone that runs to others when they need people, because these things make you a lucky person. Care deeply. Listen carefully. Love loudly. So go out into the world, and make that community special. Because it’s not that being a part of something special makes you special, but instead that something is special because you are a part of it.”

The featured speaker for both commencement ceremonies was Patrick Woody, a Gardner‑Webb 2003 alumnus and former student body president. He is founder and CEO of Point of Warning, a consulting firm that provides risk, intelligence, public policy, and organizational improvement services to government, private sector, and nonprofit organizations.

A cybersecurity professional with experience across the U.S. Intelligence Community—including the CIA, Department of Homeland Security, and National Counterterrorism Center—Woody directly advised multiple U.S. Presidents, White House leadership, Cabinet officials, and Congress on critical national security issues.

Woody received a Bachelor of Arts in history at ���سԹ�. He has a Master of Arts degree in international relations and comparative politics from George Mason University and doctoral work in international relations at the University of Maryland.

He shared that his speech included advice that he wished someone had given him when he graduated 23 years ago. “I’m going to talk to you about getting fired,” Woody explained. “Not from a job or a career, but from a mindset. It’s getting fired from the comfort of thinking that because you’ve achieved this milestone, you’ve arrived and there’s no more work to be done. I want to talk about a different way of looking at the future and your post-graduate life—one built around five principles that spell out the word ‘F-I-R-E-D.’ If you leave today with these principles, I promise you that the next chapters of your life will be the best ones.”

Woody described each guiding idea and closed with a short summary. “Fail—and let it teach you,” he reiterated. “Invest—in yourself, your future, and others. Reflect—so that you are steering and not just speeding. Educate yourself—always, relentlessly, joyfully. Dialogue—across every divide you encounter. Being ‘FIRED’ is not a setback. It is a posture. It is how you walk into every meeting, every relationship, every new chapter of your life—with humility, with purpose, and with the courage to keep growing.” 

Beyond the commencement addresses, the ceremonies also featured special presentations and awards recognizing excellence, service, and remembrance within the Gardner‑Webb community.

Commencement Honors and Recognitions

Posthumous Degree Presentation

Before undergraduate students walked across the stage to receive individual recognition for their accomplishments, Evans took a moment to remember Isaiah Hughes, a valued member of the campus community whose academic journey was tragically cut short. Hughes was an accomplished student in the Godbold College of Business and destined for great success. Evans invited the Hughes family to join him on stage, and he conferred the Bachelor of Science degree in management information systems posthumously upon Isaiah Hughes.

Undergraduate Awards and Distinctions

During the morning ceremony, several awards were presented to recognize graduates for their exceptional achievements. Senior Scholastic Awards, were presented to the members of the graduating class who earned the highest grade point average during their terms of university study. The winners were:

• Corrie Danielle Cloninger, Bachelor of Science in nursing.
• Sara-Michael Jann, Bachelor of Science in biology.
• Kaylee Faith Maynor, Bachelor of Science in nursing.
• Madison Elizabeth Peek, Bachelor of Science in nursing.
• Ava Vaughn Stratman, Bachelor of Science in exercise science.

The Most Outstanding Male and Female Graduate Awards were given to the members of the graduating class, who, judged by the faculty, best exemplify the qualities of leadership, citizenship and academic excellence.

The recipient of the Most Outstanding Female Graduate Award is Kylee A. Morris, who received a Bachelor of Science in biology. Morris began her studies at GWU in 2022 as the University’s third Tucker Scholar, an honor that includes full tuition, room and board for eight semesters. She was also crowned Miss GWU in 2025, and is a section leader in the marching band.

The recipient of the Most Outstanding Male Graduate Award is Paul M. McElearney, who earned a Bachelor of Arts in political science and international affairs. McElearney, former GWU student body president, served on the search committee for GWU’s 14th president. He is also a cadet captain in ���سԹ� Reserve Officers’ Training Corp (ROTC) detachment assigned under the Southern Guards Battalion.  

The ���سԹ� Online Scholastic Award is given at each commencement to the online student with the highest cumulative grade point average. The winners were:

• Kayla Warren Griffin, Bachelor of Science in accounting.
• Jennifer Abernathy Ruckman, Bachelor of Science in accounting.

Graduate Scholarship and Research Recognition

The afternoon ceremony featured the presentation of the Darlene J. Gravett Citizen Scholar Award, which recognizes graduate research with the potential to make a meaningful contribution to the improvement of society.

Dr. Sydney Brown, assistant provost of Academic Systems and Graduate Studies, presented the award to this year’s recipient, Dr. Brittany Hudgins-Graham. Brown noted that Hudgins-Graham exemplifies the purpose of the award in a powerful and timely way. Her work, “Forest Therapy for Mental Balance: A Christian Community Approach,” brings together mental health, community, and faith to address a growing need in our world today.

“What makes this project especially compelling is its focus on practice—creating accessible, community-based approaches that support well-being in real and tangible ways,” Brown observed. “Her work reminds us that research is not only about understanding problems, but about responding to them with care, creativity, and purpose. Dr. Hudgins-Graham’s work reflects the very spirit of this award—scholarship that serves others and strengthens communities.”

Videos of Friday’s commencement ceremonies are available on the and

���سԹ� 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., ���سԹ� prepares graduates to impact their chosen professions, equips them with the skills to advance the frontiers of knowledge, and inspires them to make a positive and lasting difference in the lives of others. Ignite your future at ���سԹ�.edu.

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Lt. Col. Michael A. Cooper, ROTC Leader is the Featured Speaker for the Service at 9 a.m.

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Each year, ���سԹ� joins communities across the nation in pausing for a Memorial Day observance to honor the lives of those who have died in military service to their country. First recognized nationally in 1868, Memorial Day serves as a solemn reminder of those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to freedom and the safety of others.

���سԹ�’s observance for the campus and surrounding community will be held at 9 a.m. on May 22 in front of Hamrick Hall. The featured speaker is Lt. Col. Michael A. Cooper, professor of military science, Wofford College Army ROTC.

The program will include a series of reflections, readings, and musical elements led by ���سԹ� faculty and staff. President Nate Evans will open the ceremony with a welcome and invocation, followed by the national anthem performed by Associate Professor and Chair of the Department of Music Dr. Aaron Rice. Adjunct Instructor and retired U.S. Air Force Colonel Dr. Jim Rennie will lead a responsive reading of Psalm 93.

Evans will introduce Cooper, whose career reflects a deep commitment to leadership, service, and education. Cooper joined Wofford’s staff as professor of military science in August 2025, where he educates and instructs Army ROTC cadets enrolled in the military science and leadership curriculum at Wofford, the University of South Carolina Upstate, ���سԹ�, and Converse University.

In addition to preparing senior ROTC cadets to commission as officers of character for the Total Army, Cooper partners with local high schools to support Junior ROTC programs that develop citizens committed to lifelong service.

A veteran of more than 20 years of military service, Cooper has completed multiple overseas tours and received numerous awards and decorations, including the Bronze Star and the Meritorious Service Medal with three oak leaf clusters.

Following Cooper’s remarks, the observance will move into a solemn moment, the Remembrance of the Fallen. Vice President for Student Development and Dean of Students Lesley Villarose will lead the tribute. As silence is observed, she will ring the bell 21 times, which is the highest military honor for those who died defending freedom and democracy. Associate Vice President of Marketing Wilson Brooks will then play “Taps.”

The program will conclude with closing remarks from Evans, followed by a benediction given by Jaquan Lynch, associate minister for Athletic Ministries.

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.

���سԹ� 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., ���سԹ� prepares graduates to impact their chosen professions, equips them with the skills to advance the frontiers of knowledge, and inspires them to make a positive and lasting difference in the lives of others. Ignite your future at ���سԹ�.edu.

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Gryphon-Bulldog Collaborative to Bring New Opportunities for Thomas Jefferson Students

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Students at Thomas Jefferson Classical Academy (TJCA) will soon have expanded access to college‑level coursework through a new partnership with Gardner‑Webb University. The initiative was formalized with the recent signing of the Gryphon‑Bulldog Collaborative.

“This partnership represents a significant step forward in expanding access to high-quality, affordable college experiences for our students,” stated TJCA Executive Director Jodi Isaacs. “We are committed to removing barriers and creating opportunities that prepare our graduates for success beyond high school.”

The formal signing was held in Tucker Student Center and attended by rising juniors and seniors from TJCA. ���سԹ� President Nate Evans, Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Nicole Waters, and Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences Dr. Robert Prickett welcomed the students and administrators.

Waters thanked everyone involved for their work in making the partnership possible. “We are delighted to celebrate this dual enrollment agreement between Thomas Jefferson Classical Academy and ���سԹ�,” she noted. “TJCA students are already engaging in a strong academic portfolio to prepare them for college, and we are proud to become part of that journey by offering the opportunity to begin earning college credit while remaining on their campus. Together, we are committed to providing courses that challenge students, build confidence, and prepare them for college success.”

TJCA Senior Director of Business and Athletics Steven Jones, a Gardner‑Webb alumnus who earned a bachelor’s degree in sports management and a Master of Business Administration, also spoke to the students. “As a ���سԹ� alum, this partnership means quite a bit to me personally,” he shared. “I know firsthand the care and investment the professors pour into their students, and I’m excited that TJCA students will get to experience that while they’re still in high school.”

“This opportunity opens some really meaningful doors for our school,” Jones continued. “I’m especially glad to partner with an institution like ���سԹ�, which had such a lasting impact on me.”

Following the signing, ���سԹ� Admissions Counselor Reilly Morgan, who serves TJCA students, divided the students into teams for a scavenger hunt. With help from the other GWU Admissions Counselors, the students completed the activity, which introduced them to campus resources and familiarized them with the Tucker Student Center.

Through the Gryphon‑Bulldog Collaborative, Gardner‑Webb faculty will teach university‑level courses on the TJCA campus, with tuition fully covered by the school. Students will gain direct access to four‑year university instruction while continuing to learn in a supportive high school environment.

The new program builds on TJCA’s existing dual‑enrollment offerings by adding university credit options alongside community college pathways. This integrated approach allows students to earn advanced credits, reduce future college costs, and strengthen their readiness for higher education.

The initiative also aligns with TJCA’s mission to cultivate thoughtful, articulate graduates prepared for college and a lifetime of citizenship and active intellectual inquiry.

���سԹ�’s Dual Enrollment Program is an option offered to qualified students from any high school or homeschool. It gives them the chance to experience college-level learning, explore academic interests, and earn credits that transfer widely—all at a reduced cost. With personalized support, access to campus resources, and flexible course options, students will gain a head start on their college journey.

About Thomas Jefferson Classical Academy

Thomas Jefferson Classical Academy is a tuition-free public charter school serving students K-12 in Mooresboro, North Carolina, since 1999. Using the classical education model, TJCA has been a college-preparatory school option for the community for over 25 years. This model follows the Trivium, the three natural stages of human development involving Grammar, Logic, and Rhetoric. Learn more at .

About ���سԹ�

���سԹ� 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., ���سԹ� prepares graduates to impact their chosen professions, equips them with the skills to advance the frontiers of knowledge, and inspires them to make a positive and lasting difference in the lives of others. Become More at .

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Investiture Ceremony Affirms Christ‑Centered Mission and Shared Vision for the University’s Future

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—���سԹ�’s 14th president, Nathaniel J. Evans, was formally sworn into his office on April 24, 2026. The program was held at 10:15 a.m. in Lutz-Yelton Convocation Center. Board of Trustees Chair the Rev. Dr. M. Lamont Littlejohn Jr. presided over the investiture ceremony.

“Today, we gather as a community of faith, learning, and service,” Littlejohn stated. “We are confident that the leadership being installed today will continue to strengthen the legacy of ���سԹ�—building upon the foundation laid by those who have served before, while guiding this institution toward new opportunities for growth, innovation, and impact.”

Evans officially took office at ���سԹ� on Nov. 11, 2025, after a competitive national search led by Littlejohn. “It was my pleasure to serve as the chair of the Presidential Search Committee,” he reflected. “I am grateful to that committee for their hard work and dedication to the process of finding a new president to lead our beloved institution.”

Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Nicole Waters welcomed attendees and led the program. She introduced podium guests and recognized former ���سԹ� presidents who were present for the ceremony: Dr. Christopher White, Dr. A. Frank Bonner and former Interim President Dr. Ben Leslie.

Vice President and University Chaplain for Christian Life and Service Dr. Josh Parrott offered the invocation. Dr. Aaron M. Rice, chair of the Department of Music, led the audience in singing the hymn: “Holy, Holy, Holy.” Interim dean of the M. Christopher White School of Divinity Dr. Jim McConnell said the closing prayer.

Greetings were offered by Student Body President Andrea Stampone, Faculty Chair Dr. Cal Robertson, Vice President for Athletics Brendan Fahey, Big South Conference Commissioner Sherika Montgomery, a GWU alumna, and North Carolina Independent Colleges and Universities President A. Hope Williams.

Evans began his inaugural address with a spirit of thanksgiving. “First, I want to thank my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ—not only for this opportunity—but for each of you, and for this institution, this mission field we call ���سԹ�,” he reflected.

He also expressed appreciation for his wife, Brittany, his parents and friends, Littlejohn and members of the Board of Trustees, faculty, staff, and students. He thanked Executive Assistant to the President Stephanie Stearns and the inauguration steering committee for their leadership in planning the program and celebration.

“Today is not about a ceremony or speeches or any one person. It is about a chapter in a much larger and enduring story, built on the faith, the sacrifice, and the shoulders of those who came before us,” Evans affirmed. “And today, we are entrusted with carrying it forward. Gardner‑Webb is, and will remain, a Christ‑centered university. We will be focused in our priorities, disciplined in our decisions, and bold in our ambition.”

Evans also pointed to the University’s “Become More” vision as a guiding expression of its mission—calling students to grow in Christ, in knowledge, and in purpose. He emphasized that this shared purpose unites faculty, staff, students, alumni, and partners as “One Webb.”

“So, if you are looking for something to believe in, something to invest your time, your talent, and your trust in, bet on us. Bet on ���سԹ�,” Evans emphasized. “This is our chapter to write. And I am honored to be with you as we write it—grounded in our mission, confident in our future, and committed to the work we are called to do together. The future of ���سԹ� is bright, and I look forward to all that we will accomplish—together.”

As part of the ceremony, Evans was bestowed the President’s Medallion, which he will wear around his neck at commencements and other important ceremonial occasions. Littlejohn explained that its weight symbolizes the responsibility carried by all who serve in this role, while its design—a replica of the University Seal—represents the community the president serves.

Evans earned his bachelor’s in exercise sports science with a minor in biology from East Carolina University (ECU). He holds Master of Science degree in Human Resource Management from Western Carolina University.

Prior to his appointment as president at ���سԹ�, he began his career in admissions at ECU before transitioning to advancement and serving as a major gifts officer for ECU’s Honors College. In 2020, Evans became ���سԹ�’s vice president for Advancement. Before his career in higher education, Evans served as an officer in the U.S. Air Force.

His wife, Brittany, is a ���سԹ� alumna and a visiting assistant professor in the College of Education.

���سԹ� 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., ���سԹ� prepares graduates to impact their chosen professions, equips them with the skills to advance the frontiers of knowledge, and inspires them to make a positive and lasting difference in the lives of others. Become More at .

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