news-category: Academics Dr. Olga Poliakova Earns First 鈥楽tudent Advocate of the Year鈥 Award from Division of Student Success By Office of University Communications On May 1, 2025 Professor of Mathematics Empowers Students to Reach Their Full Potential BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.鈥擳he 成人视频 Division of Student Success has created a new award, 鈥淪tudent Advocate of the Year.鈥 Given annually, this award will recognize the contributions of faculty and staff toward helping to support students. The recipient personifies the mission of Student Success, which is to provide resources and support to educate, equip, and empower all students to succeed academically and personally in their unique college journeys. Professor of Mathematics Dr. Olga Poliakova wassurprised with the award presentation by faculty, staffand administrators from the Division of Student Successand the College of Arts and Sciences. The 2024-2025 winner is Professor of Mathematics Dr. Olga Poliakova, or 鈥淒r. P.鈥 She became part of the 成人视频 faculty in 2000, after earning her Ph.D. in mathematics from the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville. She also received her Master of Science degree in applied mathematics from Moscow State University, Russia. She teaches courses in calculus, linear algebra, modern abstract algebra, finite mathematics, and research in mathematics. Dr. Ryan Erck, executive director for the Division of Student Success, described the objectives of the award and why Poliakova was chosen. 鈥淥ur hope with this recognition is to highlight the many outstanding efforts across our campus that foster student success and well-being,鈥 he asserted. 鈥淏y celebrating the dedication of our colleagues and partners, we continue to strengthen a student-ready culture鈥攐ne that embraces the belief that student success is a shared responsibility. In our division leadership meetings throughout the year, it was clear Dr. Poliakova exemplified this work and epitomized our mission and values.鈥 Crystal Aldridge, a graduating senior and math major, has been in many classes taught by Poliakova. 鈥溾楧r. P鈥 has been a wonderful teacher and advisor, and sparked my interest in studying algebra in graduate school,鈥 Aldridge shared. 鈥淪he has been a great help and encouragement for me during my time here, and I’m very grateful to have been taught by her.鈥 John 鈥淢ark鈥 Watt, a junior math major, also emphasizes the support he received. 鈥淚’ve worked hard to develop a sense of mathematical rigor and precision for things like proofs, and Dr. Poliakova has helped sharpen that edge by her instruction in Abstract Algebra,鈥 Watt affirmed. 鈥淚 can tell she loves pure math, and I’m honored and blessed to learn from her what it means to be a mathematician.鈥 College of Arts and Sciences Dean and Professor Dr. Robert Prickett noted that Poliakova strives to create a learning environment where every student receives personalized support. He continued, 鈥淪he empowers students to overcome challenges and reach their full potential. Her commitment also extends beyond the classroom, helping students navigate college with confidence and grace. This recognition as Student Advocate of the Year affirms that her work is truly valued and appreciated.鈥 Learn more about the 成人视频 Division of Student Success. 成人视频 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., 成人视频 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 成人视频.edu. Interested in math, computer science or cybersecurity? Start your journey here.
News Article 成人视频 Doctor of Business Administration Advances Alumna from Doctoral Study to Faculty Career Dr. Stephanie Austin-Campbell Accepts Teaching Role and Presents Research at International Conference BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.鈥擶ithin six months of completing the Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) at 成人视频, Dr. Stephanie Austin-Campbell accepted a full-time faculty position at Georgia College and State University in Athens, Ga. Less than a year into her new role, she was […] Office of University Communications | June 1, 2026
News Article 成人视频 Alumnus Appointed to State Public Health Commission Pharmacist Nathan Roberts鈥 Experience in Rural Healthcare Access Positioned Him for Service on 13-Member Board BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.鈥擲ince graduating from Gardner鈥慦ebb 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 […] Office of University Communications | May 20, 2026
News Article Anonymous $1.5 Million Gift Advances Student Experience and Faith鈥慍entered Mission at Gardner鈥慦ebb University Funding Strengthens Spaces Where Students 鈥楲ive, Learn, Train and Grow鈥 Across Campus BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.鈥擜 significant $1.5 million gift from an anonymous donor will support student鈥慺ocused priorities at Gardner鈥慦ebb University. The donor provided flexibility in directing the funds, allowing University leadership to focus on initiatives with immediate and lasting impact on students. Gardner鈥慦ebb President Nate […] Office of University Communications | May 12, 2026