College of Education Archives - ��Ƶ

��Ƶ Earns National Recognition for Preparing Future Elementary Teachers in The Science of Reading

Office of University Communications — Thu, 23 Jul 2026 14:47:48 +0000

Elementary Education Program Achieves Top Marks in New Report from The National Council on Teacher Quality

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—The undergraduate elementary teacher preparation program at ��Ƶ has earned an A+ from the National Council on Teacher Quality (NCTQ). The council’s report, “,” spotlights GWU’s College of Education for meeting the standards set by literacy experts for the most effective methods of reading instruction.

Scientifically based reading instruction emphasizes five core components identified through decades of research: phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and reading comprehension. To earn an A+, ��Ƶ’s programs had to exceed those standards and avoid teaching any instructional practices not supported by research.

Dr. Prince Bull

“Excellence is the minimum standard in the College of Education,” stated Professor and Dean of the College of Education Dr. Prince Hycy Bull. “Because literacy is the foundation of every content area, we are committed to preparing educators with the knowledge, skills, and dispositions needed to teach, inspire, and empower the next generation of citizens.”

A child’s ability to read proficiently in the early grades shapes everything that comes next in school and in life, yet according to data from the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), four in 10 fourth graders in North Carolina cannot read at a basic level. Teacher preparation is one of the most powerful drivers of change, but only when it is aligned with research-based instructional methods that have been proven to help most students become successful readers.

��Ƶ is part of a growing group of teacher preparation programs nationwide helping transform how future educators are trained to teach reading. The skills that Allie Rains, a 2024 GWU alumna, learned in the program continue to serve her as both a private reading tutor and a first-grade teacher at Evergreen Christian Academy in Greenville, N.C.

Allie Rains

“The literacy instruction at ��Ƶ was excellent,” Rains reflected. “The detailed courses were extremely practical for the classroom. They included realistic student patterns and behaviors for me to learn from. The information obtained during my time at ��Ƶ was crucial for my licensing as well as growing my passion for literacy. I gained an urgency for children and their reading journeys.”

Working alongside her school’s curriculum team, Rains used her knowledge of the Science of Reading to help identify a curriculum that aligns with the school’s educational model. Among the students she has tutored, Rains has seen significant progress using evidence-based reading instruction.

“The Science of Reading research is too important and accurate to keep to myself,” she noted. “I begin every tutoring session with an assessment tool I learned about while taking these courses at ��Ƶ. I then use targeted resources that are Science of Reading-based to grow the students’ literacy skills. I have loved seeing firsthand the growth from child to child.”

NCTQ’s methodology is informed by a panel of reading experts, teacher preparation faculty, reading advocates, and measurement experts. To evaluate the quality of preparation being provided, a team of experts at NCTQ analyzed syllabi, including lecture schedules and topics, background reading materials, class assessments, assignments, and opportunities to practice instruction in required literacy courses for elementary teacher candidates at ��Ƶ.

About NCTQ

The National Council on Teacher Quality is a nonpartisan research and policy organization on a mission to ensure every child has access to an effective teacher, and every teacher has the opportunity to be effective. For more information about NCTQ, visit .

About ��Ƶ ��Ƶ 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., ��Ƶ 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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Guided by Faith, Driven by Purpose: ��Ƶ Senior Pursues Her Calling to Teach

Office of University Communications — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 14:40:56 +0000

After Overcoming Personal Loss, Balancing Work and School, Jessica Greene Prepares to Student-Teach and Graduate Debt-Free

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—“You have to start to get to where you want to go,” remarked ��Ƶ senior Jessica Greene. Simple yet profound, this statement has guided Greene while she navigated some of life’s most difficult challenges. In the face of loss, uncertainty, and growing responsibilities, she responded by taking the next step forward.

Though she endured the passing of both parents before graduating from high school, Greene will complete her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education degree debt-free in December. She is excited to begin student teaching in a kindergarten classroom in August.

“Losing my parents was the hardest thing I have been through, especially my dad, who helped me through all of life’s challenges,” Greene reflected. “They both had hard childhoods and struggled, so they wanted better for me. When I graduated high school two months after my dad passed away, I realized I could do anything I set my mind to. I knew I wanted to go to college, and when I started my daycare job, I realized helping children was my calling, and I was going to reach my goal. My dad taught me to never give up no matter how hard life gets.”

Greene’s parents divorced when she was 2 years old, and she lived with her father. Then, while she was in ninth grade, her mother died unexpectedly. She continues to draw strength from the lessons both parents shared with her.

“My mother always told me to chase my dreams because life is short,” she recalled. “My dad taught me who Jesus was from a young age and the importance of having a relationship with him. My dad had a kidney transplant in his 20s, and it drastically affected his health. One thing he always told me was, ‘You just need faith in the Lord, and everything will be OK.’ His unwavering faith, strength and love are values that I will always carry with me.”

Her experiences growing up also helped shape her calling to become a teacher. Greene remembered her home as a place where friends often gathered because they felt safe and welcomed. “I want to teach children and let them know they have someone who believes in them and wants what is best for them,” she said. “I believe all children should have someone they can trust and feel loved by.”

Throughout her educational journey, her fiancé, Clayton Linnens, has been one of her greatest supporters. The couple will be married this month. While Greene participated in virtual classes after a full day at work, Linnens offered emotional encouragement and supported her in tangible ways. “He would help by making dinner and cleaning the house,” she noted. “He did this so when I got off (the computer) we could spend time together. He has sat with me on countless weekends and mentally supported me as I spent hours working on assignments.”

Balancing full-time employment, clinical experiences, and online classes required discipline and careful planning. As her clinical requirements increased from one day to three days each week, Greene became even more intentional about managing her time. The hard work paid off, because she will graduate without taking on student loans. Greene wants to buy items to use in her classroom, and the couple plan to start saving money to build a home.

Clayton Linnens and Jessica Greene will be married this month.

Greene found support not only at home but also in the ��Ƶ College of Education. Her professors played an important role in her success, especially Visiting Assistant Professor Dr. Brittany Evans and Assistant Professor of Education Dr. Cherie Aldrich. “As the classes became more intense, I was constantly asking these professors how to improve my work, and they were always there to help,” Greene said. “They encouraged me and discussed the positive things students had accomplished.”

Through every challenge, Greene remembered her father’s testimony and leaned on her faith. “I know that the way I got through it is Jesus and getting closer to him,” she shared. “When life feels heavy, I encourage you to just open up the Bible and sit with the Lord. You may not always know what to say, and there were many times when I would tell the Lord that I did not know what to say, but I needed help. The Lord is the answer, and he will help if you just give him a chance.”

As she prepares to begin student teaching this fall, Greene is eager to see firsthand how students learn and to experience the everyday realities of the classroom. Most of all, she hopes to create the same sense of encouragement and belonging that shaped her own life.

“The impact I hope to have on my students is that they leave my classroom believing in themselves as learners and feeling excited about coming to school each day,” she affirmed. “I hope my students remember that they had a teacher who cared about them, believed in their potential and encouraged them to become lifelong learners.”

��Ƶ 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., ��Ƶ 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 gardner-webb.edu.

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��Ƶ Commencement Programs Celebrate Achievements of Over 500 Students

Office of University Communications — Fri, 08 May 2026 19:00:00 +0000

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

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—��Ƶ 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 ��Ƶ Commencement services, convocations and special assemblies. The bell was first rung in the fall of 1970 to inaugurate ��Ƶ’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.

��Ƶ 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 ��Ƶ 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 ��Ƶ 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 ��Ƶ. 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 ��Ƶ Reserve Officers’ Training Corp (ROTC) detachment assigned under the Southern Guards Battalion.

The ��Ƶ 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

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��Ƶ to Recognize Graduates from 2026 Academic Year

Office of University Communications — Wed, 29 Apr 2026 19:50:04 +0000

Commencement Ceremonies on May 8 will Celebrate Achievements of Over 500 Graduates

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

“Commencement is one of the most meaningful days in the life of our University, as we celebrate the hard work, perseverance, and achievement of our graduates,” noted GWU President Nate Evans. “Each of these students leaves ��Ƶ prepared not only for professional success, but to lead lives of purpose, service, and impact. We are proud of what they have accomplished and excited to see the difference they will make in their communities and beyond.”

Each ceremony will begin with the ringing of a replica of the Liberty Bell. As America marks the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence this year, the bell’s symbolism carries special meaning. It has long been used to open Gardner‑Webb commencement ceremonies, convocations, and special assemblies. The bell was first rung in the fall of 1970 to inaugurate Gardner‑Webb’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. The certificate of ownership states: “This is to certify that Bell No. 0395 was cast by order of ��Ƶ College, Boiling Springs, N.C., at the Whitechapel Bell Foundry, London. This bell is to the scale of one-fifth the original Liberty Bell ordered from the same foundry by the Province of Pennsylvania in 1752, and was cast on the same site.”

Senior Scholastic awards will be presented to traditional undergraduate and online students, and doctoral candidates will receive their hoods. Evans will confer undergraduate and graduate degrees on all graduates.

Patrick Woody

The featured speaker, Patrick Woody, a Gardner‑Webb 2003 alumnus and former student body president, will bring the commencement address. 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.

He later served in leadership roles at Twitter, Twitch, and Epic Games, where he became a recognized authority on combating online harms such as extremism, information integrity, child safety, and strategic partnerships. Before his time in government, Woody worked for the One Economy Corporation, using technology to improve the lives of individuals and communities facing poverty in the United States and abroad.

Woody has had the privilege of serving on the boards of directors for multiple organizations.

The ceremonies will also be available for live streaming on The University’s and channel.

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

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

Annual Conference Showcased Outstanding Research Across Multiple Fields

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

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

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

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

Presentation Prizes

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

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

People’s Choice

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

Best Paper

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

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

Student Presentations

PowerPoint slides for the presentations are available in .

Undergraduate Roundtable:

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

Natural Sciences

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

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

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

Religious Studies

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

Education and Psychology

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

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��Ƶ College of Education Launches Pilot Study Abroad Program in London and Paris

Office of University Communications — Thu, 05 Mar 2026 16:01:53 +0000

Immersive Trip Connects Classroom Learning with International School Settings to Strengthen Global Awareness and Professional Practice

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—��Ƶ is launching a new College of Education study abroad experience in London and Paris, with the first group leaving soon. Assistant Professor Dr. Cherie Aldrich noted that the primary goal of the program is to broaden teacher candidates’ understanding of education through global perspectives on teaching, learning, leadership, and equity. The trip also includes non-education majors.

Dr. Cherie Aldrich

“By engaging directly with schools, educators, and cultural institutions abroad, students will observe how different countries structure their educational systems, support diverse learners, and approach curriculum and instruction,” Aldrich explained. “Ultimately, the experience supports the College of Education’s commitment to preparing educators who are globally informed, culturally responsive, and equipped to teach in increasingly diverse learning environments.”

Junior history education major Allie Johnson, of Bakersville, N.C., expressed her excitement about the international program. She has dreamed of visiting Paris and London since childhood, and the chance to study in these cities and connect their rich culture and history to her future career makes the experience especially meaningful to her.

A key part of the itinerary is a school‑based learning placement at Gidea Park Primary School in London, where students will observe classrooms and take part in professional discussions about teaching strategies and student support. “This opportunity benefits students by helping them develop cultural competence, global awareness, and reflective teaching practices,” Aldrich noted. “Exposure to international classrooms and cultural contexts encourages students to think critically about how educational policies, community values, and cultural traditions shape schooling.”

Gidea Park Primary School

Alani Keiger, a senior nursing student from Newton, N.C., is grateful to participate. “My expectation going on this trip to London and Paris is to learn more about the culture in both countries,” she said. “We have the opportunity to learn more about the school systems, and I am excited to see how they compare to the schools in America.”

Midway through the program, the group will travel to Paris for continued study of education in a global context. Students will receive an introduction to French culture and the French education system and take part in educational and cultural site visits, including museums and civic spaces. These activities support discussions on curriculum, identity, language, and national perspectives on schooling.

The Louvre Museum

Renva Barthell, of Concord, N.C., who graduated this past summer from the educational leadership program, is enthusiastic about exploring opportunities outside online instruction and the traditional brick‑and‑mortar classroom. “Through the CEPA Study Abroad program, I anticipate engaging in multiple learning experiences focused on comparing and contrasting educational systems in the United States with those in the United Kingdom and France,” she observed. “I expect to be introduced to new approaches to education that will further strengthen my effectiveness as an educator.”

The program incorporates structured academic components, such as guided reflections and daily blog posts that are designed to guide participants in connecting their insights to broader course objectives. The students will also write a final analysis that integrates learning from both countries and connects these observations to their professional development.

Oversight is provided by Dr. Bernhard Martin, Study Abroad director, in collaboration with Deborah Hill. International travel logistics, school visits, and cultural programming are coordinated through CEPA, an organization specializing in university‑level experiential learning programs in the U.S. and Europe.

Learn more about Study Abroad at ��Ƶ.

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Catawba Valley Community College and ��Ƶ Announce New Articulation Agreements

Office of University Communications — Thu, 19 Feb 2026 16:15:45 +0000

Partnerships Expand Transfer and Degree-Completion Opportunities for Students in Applied Science and Nursing

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Catawba Valley Community College (CVCC) and ��Ƶ have announced two new articulation agreements—the Comprehensive Associate of Applied Science (AAS) Pathway Agreement and the Bridge to Professional Advancement in Nursing Agreement—designed to create clear, seamless pathways for students to continue their education beyond CVCC. Both programs expand transfer and degree-completion opportunities for students in applied science and nursing, reinforcing that both institutions have a shared commitment to workforce development, academic access, and student success.

GWU President Nate Evans

“At ��Ƶ, we are committed to creating opportunities that remove barriers and open doors for students to advance their education and their careers,” said Nate Evans, president of ��Ƶ. “These agreements with Catawba Valley Community College provide clear and achievable pathways for students. By aligning our programs, we are expanding access, supporting workforce needs, and helping more students take the next step toward professional advancement.”

The first agreement establishes a pathway for students earning a degree from eligible CVCC Associate of Applied Science (AAS) programs to transfer up to 76 hours of credit toward a bachelor’s degree at ��Ƶ. Students then complete their final coursework towards their four-year degree at GWU.

CVCC President Dr. Garrett D. Hinshaw

The second agreement creates a Bridge to Professional Advancement in Nursing, creating a seamless pathway for CVCC Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) students to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) at ��Ƶ. Following completion of the BSN, students may be eligible to continue their education in Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs at ��Ƶ.

“These two articulation agreements with ��Ƶ represent our shared commitment to creating clear and attainable pathways for students to achieve their educational and career goals,” said Dr. Garrett D. Hinshaw, president of Catawba Valley Community College. “Whether students are completing an applied science degree or preparing to advance in the nursing profession, these partnerships ensure that the academic work completed at Catawba Valley Community College is fully recognized and can be applied seamlessly toward future educational opportunities.”

Students interested in these pathways are encouraged to contact CVCC Student Services at 828-979-3334 or visit cvcc.edu/student-services for more information.

About Catawba Valley Community College

Catawba Valley Community College empowers students to transform their communities and the state of North Carolina by providing exceptional learning experiences, premier workforce development, and engaging personal enrichment. As a comprehensive community college, CVCC offers a wide range of programs in university transfer, technical education, health sciences, community services, continuing education, and lifelong learning. Learn how you can SOAR at .

About ��Ƶ

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Black Student Association Celebrates Black History and Builds Community at ��Ƶ

Office of University Communications — Tue, 10 Feb 2026 15:01:36 +0000

Students Reflect on Resilience, Representation, and the Ongoing Impact of Black Culture

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—The ��Ƶ Black Student Association (BSA) is sponsoring a spirit week and several events to highlight African American culture and heritage. Shiasia Jefferies, BSA president, explains why February is the perfect month to honor Black History. Along with BSA, the Office of Campus Unity and Connection is sponsoring two programs. Learn more here.

“February, often referred to as the ‘month of love,’ offers a meaningful opportunity to reconnect with our roots and honor the traditions we continue to cherish, despite the hardships our ancestors endured,” Jefferies noted. “This month gives us the space to educate, celebrate, and inspire others to understand the depth of Black history. I believe Black History Month goes far beyond simply acknowledging that we are no longer in bondage; it is about recognizing resilience, contributions, and the ongoing impact of Black culture.”

The BSA Vice President Naliah Codjovi shared that Black History Month reminds her how much strength can be found in unity and perseverance. “Black History Month allows me to dedicate time to learn about and be inspired by figures who created great changes in the world, even when the world was against them,” she related.

Codjovi, of Charlotte, N.C., is an Ignite Scholar at ��Ƶ, an award that includes full tuition to the University. A biology major with a biomedical concentration and a minor in health administration, her goal is to become a Physician Assistant and enter the field of hematology. She appreciates all those who have led the way into the field of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM).

“I’ve been very inspired by people of color in science,” she shared. “I’ve been seeing a lot of news about black inventors. I love hearing and seeing people of color in STEM. Growing up interested in STEM, I’ve definitely found myself being the only black girl in the room. I didn’t see people who look like me in these roles, but lately I have had black doctors and black professors and they remind me that in a world that tries to doubt us and hold us back, we can still come out on top and pave the way for those behind us.”

Jefferies is a senior sociology major from Hickory, N.C. She is also inspired by the number of African American inventions that are still used today and points out other contributions to society. “Another powerful expression of Black culture can be seen in the way we wear our hair and dress, which has influenced and inspired people across many different racial and cultural backgrounds,” she acknowledged. “Music is also especially meaningful to me, as the soul, emotion, and deeper messages behind many Black songs are incredibly moving and reflective of our shared experiences.”

Jefferies and Codjovi said BSA planned its celebration of Black History Month to educate and foster connection. “Even within our own community, some people have limited understanding of what Black history is meant to represent,” Jefferies stated. “Ultimately, we aim to bring everyone together, as our events are not just for Black students on campus but for the entire community.”

Jefferies concluded, “Black History Month and the Black Student Association represent more than a celebration of the past; they are spaces for growth, education, and community building. They provide opportunities for meaningful conversations, shared experiences, and continued learning that extend beyond a single month. Through BSA, students are encouraged to engage with Black history and culture in ways that promote understanding, empowerment, and unity across the campus community.”

Join the celebration by participating in the days or events listed below.

Black History Month Spirit Week

Share your photos on Instagram and tag .

Feb. 10 – Sound of Movement, dress like your favorite artist, music year, or music genre.
Feb. 11 – Power in Roots – express yourself through your hair.
Feb. 12 – Unity and Culture Day – Wear a T-shirt promoting a black music group or one displaying a powerful quote.
Feb. 13 – Walk into Your Purpose, wear were favorite shoes.

Events

Feb. 10 – 7 p.m., Open Mic Night celebration of Black History Month. Tucker first floor.
Feb. 11 – 7 to 9 p.m., Debate on relationships and dating, snacks served, Clubhouse.
Feb. 12 – 2 to 4 p.m., DIY Bar, decorate a trucker hat or tote bag (materials provided), Tucker Rm. 141.
Feb. 24 – 6 p.m. Black History Month Bingo Night with pizza, snacks, drinks, prizes, Clubhouse.

For more information, email ncodjovi@gardner-webb.edu.

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Gardner‑Webb Celebrates Black History Month with Campus‑Wide Events

Office of University Communications — Tue, 10 Feb 2026 14:20:38 +0000

Programs, Library Display, and Black Student Association Events Spotlight Black Voices, Identity, and Resilience

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—The observance of Black History Month at Gardner‑Webb University features a series of events and initiatives designed to connect the campus community to the past, celebrate the present, and strengthen relationships. The Office of Campus Unity and Connection, the Black Student Association (BSA), and Dover Library are collaborating to highlight the rich history, culture, and creative contributions of Black Americans.

Dover Library

��Ƶ Instruction Librarian Katie Hartley has curated a special display featuring new releases from African American authors. She designed the exhibit to showcase a range of voices, spotlighting both emerging writers and well‑known authors. The goal, she explained, is to give patrons an opportunity to explore diverse perspectives and perhaps discover a new favorite book.

BSA Spirit Week and Events

The Black Student Association is also leading the campus in celebration through Black History Month Spirit Week, held Feb. 9–13, and hosting other events throughout the month. Read more about their events here.

Office of Campus Unity and Connection

Jessika Raduly, director of Campus Unity and Connection, said understanding history is foundational to building a stronger community. “Celebrating Black History Month at ��Ƶ is more than learning about history; it is about applying that knowledge to build a more unified and empathetic student body in the present. When students engage with the stories, struggles, and triumphs of Black history makers, they create a shared language of resilience that resonates across all backgrounds.”

Campus Unity and Connection is offering two additional programs that invite students to explore identity and perseverance through storytelling. Graduate student Alexis Wideman, who helped plan the events, says each one provides space for connection and reflection. Refreshments will be available at both programs while supplies last.

The first event on Feb. 16, “The Story We Tell,” will invite participants to create their own quilt square—no sewing required. Guest speaker, Dr. Simone McIntyre, assistant professor in the Department of Counselor Education, will discuss “Stitches, Strength, and Stories: Honoring Black History Month.” Inspired by the historic significance of quilting in Black communities, this event encourages students to express aspects of their identity, culture, and heritage. The completed squares will later be displayed in Tucker Student Center.

“For enslaved Black Americans, quilts served not only as a pathway to freedom but also as a powerful way to tell and preserve history within their familial roots,” Wideman explained. “This event allows participants to create and share the story they want to tell about who they are, so that each time they pass by the display, they can see their personalized quilt square and be reminded of their identity and story.”

The celebration continues on Feb. 19 with a movie night featuring “Harriet,” the acclaimed 2019 film starring Cynthia Erivo. The biographical drama highlights Harriet Tubman’s courage, leadership, and enduring impact on the fight for justice. Wideman describes Tubman as a symbol of resilience and conviction. She described, “Harriet Tubman demonstrates how faith in God can make the impossible possible. This film also sheds light on the history of slavery and the daily hardships endured by enslaved Black Americans. Regardless of how painful or difficult this history may be, it should never be forgotten, as it shows how resilience in the face of hate and ignorance continues to flow through the veins of Black Americans.”

Together, these programs invite the Gardner‑Webb community to honor Black history in meaningful, multifaceted ways throughout the month of February.

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As the Super Bowl Approaches, GWU Alumni Coaches Reflect on Building Champions

Office of University Communications — Tue, 03 Feb 2026 19:18:45 +0000

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—As football fans prepare for this weekend’s Super Bowl, the nation’s attention turns to the traits that elevate good teams into great ones—leadership, chemistry, resilience, and a commitment to collective success. Those same qualities, often celebrated on the NFL’s biggest stage, have also defined three North Carolina high school programs that captured state championships this season. Remarkably, all three teams are led by Gardner‑Webb University alumni, whose coaching philosophies trace back to lessons learned long before their own players ever take the field.

These coaches—Greg Lloyd, ’02, of Crest High School; Mike Wilbanks, ’98, of Shelby High School, and Darryl Brown, ’00, of Grimsley High School—represent three different classifications in the North Carolina High School Athletic Association (NCHSAA), an organization of 447 member schools. Despite distinct team cultures and competitive landscapes, each coach emphasizes a shared foundation: championship seasons are built not only on talent, but on trust and personal growth.

Mike Wilbanks: Leadership and Chemistry

Wilbanks has led the Shelby Golden Lions since 2019 and works alongside several fellow GWU alumni on his staff: Chris Emery, ’98; Jamie Dunaway, ’13; Dobson Collins, ’08; and current GWU student, Sam Baldree. He attributes his team’s title run to two essential ingredients. “The senior leadership on this team was phenomenal. Their work ethic and commitment to excellence really permeated the entire team,” he said. “Secondly, our team chemistry was great.”

Team unity wasn’t accidental. Wilbanks prioritized opportunities for players to bond off the field through cookouts, fishing trips, cornhole games, and other informal gatherings.

His coaching philosophy is rooted in lessons from his time at Gardner‑Webb with Coach Woody Fish. Wilbanks, a former three‑year offensive line starter, said Fish instilled preparation and discipline into the team. “I learned that a successful season doesn’t just happen in August,” he said. “It starts in January with offseason lifting and conditioning… summer camp to prepare… and a weekly routine once the season starts.”

Darryl Brown: Resilience and Grit

Brown, head coach since 2016 of the Grimsley Whirlies in Greensboro, N.C., emphasizes resilience as the defining trait of his championship team. Early adversity threatened to derail the season when the starting quarterback was sidelined by an injury. Still, Brown watched his players rise to the moment. “We had a group of players that were very resilient,” he affirmed. “Each week, we had different players stepping up and making plays. This entire season was a complete effort by every player and coach.”

Brown noted that Gardner‑Webb baseball coach Clyde Miller taught him the importance of teamwork. “Every player has a role, and whatever your role happens to be, it is extremely important to the success of the team,” he said.

The lessons extended beyond the field. Brown remembers Dr. Dee Hunt as a crucial mentor who helped guide him through significant academic and personal decisions. He still cherishes the relationships he formed at Gardner‑Webb, many of which continue today.

Greg Lloyd: Experience and Tradition

Greg Lloyd led Crest to its seventh state title—and first in a decade—before retiring in 2025. Experience was the deciding factor in his team. “We had a lot of players back from the previous season who had played a lot,” he explained. “We played a lot of seniors this year… Crest has a lot of tradition, so the players feel that, and those high expectations keep them motivated.”

Lloyd, also a former baseball player under Miller, said he carried the same emphasis on relationships into his own career. “I take pride in building relationships with my students and players… and I really believe that’s why I have been successful,” he said. “A lot of that foundation came at Gardner‑Webb.”

Like Brown, he remembers the support of Hunt and said her mentorship helped him persist through challenges in college. “If it wasn’t for Dr. Dee Hunt—she took a lot of time with me and helped me—and we made it,” Lloyd affirmed. “So, I was very thankful.”

A Shared Foundation

Though their teams compete in different classifications and face unique pressures, Lloyd, Wilbanks, and Brown remain connected by their Gardner‑Webb roots. Their experiences reflect a common message: mentorship, perseverance, and strong relationships shape not only championship seasons but the lives of the students they lead.

Sources: High School OT and High School Football America

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College of Education Archives - ������Ƶ

������Ƶ Earns National Recognition for Preparing Future Elementary Teachers in The Science of Reading