Faith and Service Archives - ��

Faith in Action: Jackson Hartley Prepares for a Calling in Ministry

Office of University Communications — Tue, 20 Oct 2026 18:46:56 +0000

Christian Studies Major Uses Scholarship Opportunities, Leadership Roles and Service Experiences to Prepare for Ministry

By Victoria Edwards, Intern for University Communications

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—As a teenager, Ignite Scholar Jackson Hartley made one of the most important decisions of his life: following Jesus. “God saved my life when I was in high school,” noted Hartley. Since then, Hartley has devoted himself to ministry. “I would love to be in a role where I can minister to teenagers, because I want to pay forward the work that was done in my life.”

Jackson Hartley helps lead a men’s
Bible study group.

A Christian studies major, Hartley is from Winston-Salem, N.C., and first heard about �� from friends and family. After touring the campus, he was drawn to the close-knit and Christ-centered community. “I immediately enjoyed the campus atmosphere, outdoors, and the emphasis on belief in God,” Hartley explained. “The campus just fit me. It fit my life, and I knew the visions I had for my college experience had begun to be fulfilled.”

He believes his degree is equipping him to serve in a variety of settings. “No matter if I’m a youth pastor or a professor, if I become a chaplain in the military, or even if I explore a different field, I can use ministry in every area,” Hartley noted.

Knowing �� was where he felt called to continue growing in his faith and preparing for ministry, Hartley was grateful when the Ignite Scholarship opened the door for him to attend. “Being an Ignite Scholar means that I’ve been chosen for a great honor,” Hartley shared. “It makes me want to represent �� well, since I’ve been entrusted with such a great opportunity.”

The Ignite Excellence Scholarship, ��’s most competitive academic award, recognizes students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, leadership and service. Awarded to a select group of students each year, the scholarship provides full tuition for up to eight semesters, while encouraging recipients to continue growing as leaders and servants.

Jackson Hartley, second from right, helped
new students move in at the beginning of the
semester.

During his time on campus, Hartley has had the privilege to learn from many respected academic leaders. He credits Dr. Paula Qualls for her outstanding teaching methods, saying that she has been a profound influence both in his personal life and academic journey. “She clearly has so much passion for her subject…and explains Old Testament theology in such a simple way,” he described.

Hartley noted how her teaching style is interactive, which enhances the learning process for students even more. “I loved it when she brought items from Israel and Jerusalem to class…because I got to see what I’ve been learning about and researching right in front of me,” he said.

Hartley actively participates in multiple organizations at �� and is well known for his commitment to service. He is a men’s Bible study leader with Campus Ministries United and is involved with ��’s FOCUS (Fellowship of Christians United in Service) ministry, which hosts faith-filled retreats for youth throughout the region. He also serves in productions and media for several on-campus events, as well as being the vice president of the Religious Studies Association.

Additionally, Hartley is a Peer Leader, mentoring first-year students, and a Student Recruitment Ambassador, working to represent �� to prospective students and their families. This role gives him the ability to share his love for ��’s Christ-centered community. He emphasizes that �� is a place for everyone: “I believe a non-believer can come to this campus and leave with a new purpose in life, and a believer can come here and have their faith sharpened like iron.”

Students like Hartley are able to pursue their calling through the support of �� scholarships.

Explore Scholarship Opportunities.

Victoria Edwards, of Salisbury, N.C., is a junior majoring in both English and Psychology.

�� 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., �� 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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From Classroom to Community: �� Connections Strengthen Learning Beyond Graduation

Office of University Communications — Wed, 14 Oct 2026 13:07:30 +0000

Alumna Micahla Funderburk and Senior Melonie Chapman Demonstrate the Power of Mentorship, Experiential Learning and Service

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—��’s criminal justice administration program emphasizes experiential learning, giving traditional undergraduate students opportunities to see how classroom concepts translate into real-world practice. Through internships, career networking opportunities and mentorship from professionals in the field, students gain firsthand insight into the challenges and responsibilities of criminal justice careers.

Senior Melonie Chapman’s hands-on learning experience came through an eight-week internship with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD). There, she found herself learning from a familiar face: �� 2024 alumna Micahla Funderburk.

As a student, Funderburk was known across campus for her accomplishments on the basketball court, where she set records and helped lead the Runnin’ Bulldogs to Big South regular-season and tournament championships and a trip to the NCAA Tournament. In the Criminal Justice program, however, faculty and classmates knew her for another reason: leadership.

Micahla Funderburk

Today, those same qualities guide Funderburk’s work as a police officer and mentor to the next generation of criminal justice professionals. “�� was an important chapter of my life,” she said. “I came there as a student-athlete playing college basketball, and now I get to represent the University in a completely different uniform. I’m proud that current students can see someone who was once in their position now working professionally in the field. I hope my journey shows them that the discipline and lessons they are developing at �� can carry far beyond graduation. It’s rewarding to know that my experience may encourage another student to believe that they can accomplish their goals too.”

Chapman said the firsthand look at CMPD operations confirmed her desire to pursue a career in the field. She had learned about the opportunity through ��’s Public Service Career Fair, which brings law enforcement agencies to campus for recruitment.

“The internship was one of the most eye-opening experiences of my life,” Chapman affirmed. “Getting to spend the summer with 29 other college students from all over the county and experiencing everything together was truly amazing. We did physical training and classes three days a week and two days going on ride-a longs all over the city in the different divisions. We learned what it looked like to be a CMPD officer and what it looks like to be a CMPD recruit.”

Melonie Chapman

One of the most meaningful aspects of the time was the opportunity to learn alongside Funderburk. The two had met at �� when Chapman was a freshman and Funderburk was a senior.

“I knew she was going into law enforcement, so I made sure to keep in contact with her,” Chapman related. “Then I found out I got accepted into the internship, so I immediately let her know. And my last week of the internship, I asked my supervisor at CMPD if I could do my last ride-along in her division.”

Watching Funderburk in action left a lasting impression. “Getting to ride with her was so much fun and seeing her way of policing was inspiring,” Chapman reflected. “She was very community-oriented and had a relationship with most of the people we encountered. In the time we weren’t taking calls, we would walk around in the community and talk to people. In my opinion, building trust with the community is one of the most important roles of being an effective police officer.”

Criminal justice instructor and retired police chief Tim W. Ledford witnessed Funderburk’s journey from student to police officer and now sees many of the same qualities emerging in Chapman. Reflecting on Funderburk’s time at ��, Ledford said she influenced her team and classmates.

“Micahla demonstrated throughout her college career that leadership is not simply about achievement, but about inspiring others to be their best,” Ledford observed. “Whether on the basketball court, in the classroom, or in her current role as a police officer, she continues to lead through example.”

Funderburk said her experience as a student-athlete contributed to her professional development. “My time at �� prepared me for law enforcement in more ways than I realized,” Funderburk shared. “Playing college basketball taught me discipline, accountability, teamwork, time management, and how to perform under pressure. As an athlete, I had to balance academics, practices, workouts, games and travel while still being responsible for my performance in the classroom.”

During her time on the �� women’s basketball team, Micahla Funderburk achieved a Big South record for the most 3-point field goals attempted and scored in one game.

She continued, “Now, as a police officer, I use many of those same skills. I have to remain composed in stressful situations, communicate with different personalities, work as part of a team, and make decisions when there is pressure around me. Basketball also taught me that everyone has a role, and that translates directly into police work.”

Funderburk added that her perspective on service and purpose was also shaped by ��’s Christ-centered environment. “Faith has played a major role in both my education and my career,” she said. “�� gave me an environment where faith was incorporated into my college experience, and it helped me understand the importance of having a purpose beyond myself. As a police officer, there are situations that can be emotionally and mentally challenging, and my faith helps keep me grounded. I pray for wisdom, protection, patience, and the ability to treat people with compassion. I believe God placed me in this profession for a reason, and I try to remember that I have an opportunity to make an impact on someone every time I put on the uniform.”

Retired Police Chief and GWU
Instructor Tim Ledford

Guided by those values, Funderburk finds the greatest reward in helping others during some of life’s most challenging moments. “Police officers often meet people when they are scared, hurt, angry, or experiencing a crisis,” she observed. “Being able to bring some sense of safety or direction to that situation is meaningful to me. I also enjoy connecting with the community outside of enforcement. Sometimes the biggest impact comes from simply listening to someone, giving them resources, or showing them that you genuinely care.”

As Chapman prepares for graduation, she hopes to follow a similar path. “I plan on joining the CMPD Police Academy to become a police officer and work my way up to my end goal of being a K9 Officer,” she said.

Ledford believes Chapman is well-prepared for the journey ahead. “Melonie embodies the qualities we hope to instill in all criminal justice students,” he said. “She is academically strong, deeply committed to serving others, and consistently demonstrates the leadership, professionalism, and integrity necessary for success in the criminal justice field. The positive influence she has had on her fellow students is remarkable.”

Funderburk emphasized that internships and hands-on learning opportunities help students like Chapman build a strong foundation for their careers. “You can learn criminal justice concepts from a textbook, but being able to observe professionals, ask questions, and experience the environment firsthand gives you a completely different perspective,” she explained. “It can also help you determine which area of criminal justice is the best fit for you.”

Together, Funderburk and Chapman demonstrate how connections formed at �� can continue long after graduation and help prepare the next generation of leaders in criminal justice.

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�� Receives Dover Foundation Grant for Dover Chapel Lighting Renovation

Office of University Communications — Tue, 09 Jun 2026 19:21:17 +0000

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

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—�� 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 �� 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 ��’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 ��. 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 �� 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.

Improvements will include replacing ten wall-mounted
light fixtures.

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.”

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Community Gathers at �� for Parade of Tables to Benefit Local Students in Need

Office of University Communications — Tue, 24 Mar 2026 14:26:49 +0000

Fundraiser Strengthens Support for the Little Bulldog Backpack Program, Serving 67 Children Each Week

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—One of the signature fundraisers for the Little Bulldog Backpack Program will be held at �� this spring. The annual Parade of Tables is April 18 in the Tucker Student Center, beginning with table viewing at 6 p.m. and followed by dinner and a program at 6:30 p.m. Volunteers decorate themed tables for eight guests, and tickets to the event support the organization’s mission to provide weekend meals for local children.

Hodges McCathern, a member of the Honors
Student Association, packs food for children.

The fundraiser supports the year-round work of the Little Bulldog Backpack Program, which provides weekly food bags for students at Springmore and Boiling Springs elementary schools. Each bag contains 15 to 18 items, including breakfast foods, lunch and dinner options, non-perishable fruit, and salty and sweet snacks. �� students, faculty and staff regularly lend support through packing food bags and contributing donations. Boiling Springs Baptist Church donates space for storage and for volunteers to pack the food each week.

This year’s event features tables designed by the Department of Physician Assistant Studies and the Hunt School of Nursing. Dr. Josh Parrott, Vice President and University Chaplain for Christian Life and Service, will serve as emcee, and entertainment will be provided by �� alumna Lindy Bryson. Dinner will be catered by Aramark. Tickets are $25 and may be purchased from Lou Ann Scates at 704-477-2455 or on campus from Debbie Hill, administrative assistant for the Department of English and World Languages, at dthill@gardner-webb.edu, 704-406-3035 or 704-406-4411.

The Parade of Tables was first held in 2017, when Lou Ann Scates, retired �� registrar, organized the event on the University’s campus. Paused during the COVID-19 pandemic, the fundraiser was revived in 2025 with Scates’ church, Boiling Springs Baptist, serving as host.

GWU Assistant Professor Dr. Mitch Porter helps with
the Little Bulldog Backpack Program every week.

The feeding program began in 2011, inspired by Scates’ visits to her son’s school for lunch. She often noticed children who wanted to buy extra food but lacked the money. “It’s hard to imagine a kindergartener or a fifth-grader going to bed hungry,” Scates reflected.

Scates shared her concern with biology faculty emerita Susan Manahan, and the two began pooling their resources. Working with the school’s social worker, they started buying food for 20 children every other week. Because Springmore’s mascot is the Little Bulldogs, the Little Bulldog Backpack Program quickly took shape as its own community organization.

Support grew as word spread across the �� campus and throughout the community. Today, the program is an established 501(c)(3) non-profit backed by local partners. “We have eight churches who help, and have received financial donations or food items from individuals, businesses, and Town of Boiling Springs officials,” Scates shared.

Now serving 67 children every week, the Little Bulldog Backpack Program continues to grow through volunteer support and community generosity. Together, local churches, volunteers, and members of the �� community continue to ensure that children in Boiling Springs and Springmore schools have the food they need each weekend.

To learn more or to support the Little Bulldog Backpack Program, contact littlebulldogbackpackprogramk5@gmail.com.

Assistant Professor of Physics and Director of the GWU Honors Program, Dr. Wilson Hawkins, center, and members of the Honors Student Association help pack food bags each week.

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Gardner‑Webb Alumni Pull the Topps Card MLB Star Paul Skenes Has an Eye On

Office of University Communications — Thu, 12 Mar 2026 17:47:46 +0000

Stephen, ’23, and his father, Kevin, ’93, Uncover the One‑of‑One Livvy Dunne Card That Has Captured National Attention and Sparked a Frenzy Among Collectors

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Stephen Qualls not only followed in his father’s footsteps by graduating from ��; the 2023 and 1993 alumni share a love for sports-card collecting. “My dad and I saw it as a way to connect and do something we love together,” Qualls reflected. “We love baseball, and my dad grew up collecting cards. We still call each other all the time to talk about it.”

Their longtime hobby has seen a global resurgence, with rare cards bringing in millions. Always in search of that collector’s dream, father and son increased the stakes in 2007 by purchasing their first Topps Hobby Box, which promises two premium cards. Every Christmas morning since then, they eagerly open the set and marvel over the surprises inside. One year, they pulled a one‑of‑a‑kind card containing a lock of Napoleon Bonaparte’s hair; another year, the surprise was a dinosaur fossil.

A screenshot of the moment that Kevin and
Stephen Qualls uncovered the Livvy Dunne card.

This year, they opened the box to find a one-of-one autographed card that could bring joy to others as much as sharing their hobby has blessed them. “We pulled the only autograph in the entire world of Livvy Dunne,” Qualls revealed. Dunne is a Sports Illustrated model, American influencer with a social media following of over 10 million, a former top-ranked gymnast, and she’s dating MLB star, Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher, Paul Skenes.

Not sure what to do next, Qualls posted photos and video of his discovery on Reddit, where it received 700,000 views and 500 comments. Earlier, he had seen a Topps repost where Skenes called his girlfriend’s card the “hottest card of the year.” Everyone on Reddit offered suggestions about what Skenes might offer for the card. Ideas ranged from free game tickets for life to going on a double date with Skenes and Livvy.

Qualls’ post received attention from the official Instagram and , which also featured the card on a . Then, “” followed with a story. As attention grew, Goldin, a respected international auction house, notified Qualls of its interest, authenticated the card, and awarded it a top grade.

The card will appear in , which goes live on March 18 at 8 p.m. and closes on April 11 at 10 p.m. “My goal is for Skenes to get this card; however, he needs to buy it before the auction goes live,” Qualls said. “If he is late, then he will have to fight in the real-world market with other people who want the card. A lot of people want this card.”

Qualls, who earned his bachelor’s degree in marketing, wanted to share the news with his former �� professors, hoping the story would also bring some recognition to the University that shaped him spiritually and academically. “I know what marketing does and I wanted to give �� some publicity,” he explained. “I won the marketing award, top of my class, on graduation day. I’m a Runnin’ Bulldog for life.”

The GWU connection runs deep. “My dad collected cards with his buddies from ��, and they are all getting back into it now,” Qualls shared. “They collected all the Ken Griffey Jr. cards back in the ’90s. The running joke among all his friends was that Qualls always pulled the best cards. And so, ‘It’s that Qualls’ luck,’ is what they would say.”

WeTheHobby posted about the card.

Qualls prefers to call it “God’s favor.” Although he majored in marketing, he sensed a call into pastoral ministry, like his dad, grandfather and two uncles. A pivotal influence was Dr. Don Caudill in the Godbold College of Business. “He pulled me aside after class and said distinctly, ‘Stephen you are very gifted, I have only said this to one other student my whole career. But God has big things in store for you,’” Qualls remembered. “He then offered me to join his Honors invite-only seminar on ‘The Science of Success.’ I can proudly say that I have accomplished, with the help of God, of course, most of my previous goals. For example, I planned to get married, have a baby, and finish my Masters of Divinity. I graduate in fall. God has been truly great. Caudill helped me cast vision and bring it into reality. However, I must note that none of this would be possible without faith in God and his sovereign hand over my life. All glory to Jesus Christ and Him alone.”

Qualls shared that his faith was strengthened by Gardner‑Webb professors like Dr. Paula Qualls (no relation), whose teaching on Scripture and spiritual warfare helped spark his dissertation topic, “A Biblical Framework for Spiritual Warfare.” He added that the encouragement he found among fellow believers on campus and at Hope Community Church in Shelby, N.C., laid a strong foundation for his call to ministry. Qualls will graduate in the fall from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary (SEBTS) in Wake Forest, N.C., and plans to begin his doctorate in pastoral theology while also hoping to serve as a pastor.

Even as excitement builds around what might come from the Livvy Dunne card, Qualls’ focus is on how to use this blessing from God to benefit others. “God works in very mysterious ways and for some reason this lot has landed on me and I know that’s not a coincidence,” he asserted. “I don’t believe in luck. I believe in Providence, and I know God is going to use this for his glory. It’s not about me. It’s ultimately about getting His name known. I want to be generous with this money because it’s not my money, it’s Jesus’ money. I’m just a steward. My wife and I, when we pray through it, we’re going to bless people. We’ve never been in a position to bless people.”

Qualls also wants to use this moment to share the Gospel. “I want people to know that Jesus is Lord and He can save your soul,” Qualls stated. “At Southeastern, we have a place called the Center for Faith and Culture, and I just met with the director over there.” He expressed interest in interviewing Skenes, also noting that this month the Center is highlighting connections between sports and faith.

In addition to the podcast invitation, Qualls had a final word for the Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher: “Paul Skenes, I hope you get this card.”

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�� Hosts Dr. Jerusha Matsen Neal for Greene Lectures on March 3

Office of University Communications — Mon, 23 Feb 2026 14:06:58 +0000

Duke Divinity Professor to Present on Creation Justice and Congregational Leadership Amid Climate Change

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—The School of Divinity at �� will host noted homiletics professor Jerusha Matsen Neal for The Rev. and Mrs. C.O. and Eliza Greene Lectureship in Ministry on Tuesday, March 3, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Dover Chapel. The lectures will develop the theme “Grounded Hope: Creation Justice and the Place of the Local Congregation.” There is no cost to attend, and lunch is included.

“We are pleased to host Dr. Neal for the Greene lectures this year,” said interim dean Jim McConnell. “I am confident she will challenge us to consider how scripture compels local congregations to act in the face of climate change.”

The climate crisis raises theological questions about human purpose, the nature of hope, and the character of God. Drawing on biblical texts compiled through experiences of exile and loss, Neal’s lecture series reflects on where local congregations stand in this crisis—and where God is standing.

The schedule for these lectures is as follows:

10 a.m. – Lecture 1: “Exilic Hope: Preaching Scripture in the Climate Crisis.”
11 a.m. – Q&A.
11:45 a.m. – Lunch.
1 p.m. – Lecture 2: “New Creation Hope: Resistance and Restoration in the Face of Apocalypse.”

Neal, an associate professor of homiletics at Duke Divinity School in Durham, N.C., is an ordained American Baptist pastor who has spent her ministry preaching in cross-cultural spaces and bridging denominational communities. Her most recent book, “Holy Ground: Climate Change, Preaching, and the Apocalypse of Place” (Baylor University Press, 2024), engages the climate crisis through the sermons of South Pacific communities displaced by rising tides. In her earlier book, “The Overshadowed Preacher: Mary, the Spirit, and the Labor of Proclamation” (Eerdmans, 2020), Neal challenges faith leaders to leave behind false shadows of approval and embrace the overshadowing Spirit of God.

A former actress and playwright, she has also authored a collection of dramatic monologues, “Blessed: Monologues for Mary” (Cascade Books, 2012). She speaks regularly to faith communities across the country on the intersection of courage and hope in the face of the climate crisis.

For more information, please contact Lisa Hollifield at lhollifield@gardner-webb.edu.

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.

About the Greene Lectureship

The Rev. and Mrs. C.O. and Eliza Greene Lectureship was established in 1993 to preserve the legacy of excellence in pastoral ministry characterized by Greene, who served for approximately 14 years as director of Missions for the Kings Mountain Baptist Association (now Greater Cleveland County Baptist Association). Prior to that ministry, Greene served as pastor of four churches in Cleveland County and of two other churches in North Carolina. The Lectureship is administered by the Pittman Center for Congregational Enrichment and funded by family members, friends, and members of churches where the Greene served as pastor. Held annually on the GWU campus, the Lectureship’s purpose is to address various dimensions of pastoral ministry.

About ��

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Penning Encouragement: GWU Students Unite to Share Faith Through Devotional

Office of University Communications — Thu, 19 Feb 2026 16:31:02 +0000

Senior Emma Kate Harrison Leads a New Devotional Initiative, Inviting the GWU Community to Write Reflections on Identity, Faith, and Encouragement

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—The Writing Ministry of �� Campus Ministries United offers events throughout the semester to encourage students to write notes of encouragement to special people in their lives or leave an inspirational note for a stranger to pick up. Led by her passion for writing, senior Emma Kate Harrison, became the Writing Ministry coordinator last year.

A human services major from Robbinsville, N.C., Harrison started writing as a private way to process her grief and other emotions after her stepfather died in 2020. Four years later, she decided to share her thoughts publicly and created an Instagram page called “Embracing the Endeavor.”

She explained, “I made it very clear that I wanted to use my story to help others, and that’s the only reason I’m willing to share my story. I will tell you anything so that you can be encouraged and feel validated in your emotions. It’s been cool to see how the Lord’s working in other people’s lives because of my story.”

As she thought about how writing impacts both the author and the reader, Harrison had an idea for a different Writing Ministry project: a printed devotional written by the GWU community. “Through this devotional, it is my prayer that our campus will be reminded of who they are because of what Jesus has done,” she shared. “The theme is Identity in Christ, and what that looks like as a college student. We are quick to put our identity in school work or in the sports we play or the friendships or the relationships, but when our identity is in Christ, those things are an exciting overflow not a pressure to perform.”

Her goal is to have the devotional ready by April so that students will have them to read over the summer. “You have all these resources when you’re at college,” she related, “Your friends who love Jesus, so many church things and ministry events on campus. But when you transition home, you are on your own. Having a devotional with students from �� and a few faculty and staff can jump start you into summer.”

Harrison wants 30 submissions and needs 10 more. One participant, Troy Berchoff, a sophomore English major with a minor in biblical studies, has written five devotions for the project. “When Emma Kate informed me of the devotional she was planning, I was greatly enthused,” he stated. “What better way to be encouraged with small thoughts from the community surrounding you? I love writing, and it helps me explore and expound upon my relationship with God, so I want to point others to a similar attitude of reflection and understanding. Also, I believe that if any scriptural wisdom or insight is imparted on us, we are blessed if we give that to others. God gives every good and perfect gift because it contains Himself in it and is useful for edification and worship.”

Support from students like Berchoff has brought Harrison close to her goal, yet she continues to welcome new submissions to complete the collection. She will be taking submissions until March 20. To participate, fill out this . For more information, visit the GWU Writing Ministry on or email Harrison at eharrison3@gardner-webb.edu.

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�� Physician Assistant (PA) Studies 2027 Cohort Raises Money for Bulldog Cares Fund

Office of University Communications — Thu, 12 Feb 2026 18:55:02 +0000

Glow Run 5K Generates Contribution to Assist Students with Emergency Financial Needs

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—In a show of campus generosity and community spirit, the 2027 cohort of the Gardner‑Webb University Physician Assistant (PA) Studies program organized a fundraising event that helped support fellow students in financial need. They raised $2,648.85 and presented the donation to the Bulldog Cares Fund during a recent basketball game. This fund—a joint venture led by Student Development, Student Success, and Financial Planning—seeks to assist �� students by providing financial support intended to prevent them from leaving the University for emergency financial reasons.

The PA students generated the donation by sponsoring a Glow Run 5K on Nov. 15, 2025. Participants included students, friends and supporters who lit up the night for an evening of fitness, fun, and community spirit. The group—decked out in neon colors, glow sticks, and LED accessories— transformed the course into a moving celebration, creating an atmosphere that was equal parts athletic and festive. The running course traversed through the campus of Gardner Webb University and had many “glow” items along the way.

“The Glow Run 5K wasn’t just about crossing the finish line—it was about connection and momentum,” observed Allison Shamblin, director of Didactic Education in the Department of PA Studies. “From the pulsing music at the start line to the cheers echoing along the route, runners and walkers of all paces were encouraged at every step of the way. The event showcased the 2027 cohort’s dedication to teamwork, wellness, and creativity, turning a traditional 5K into a memorable nighttime experience.”

Shamblin added, “By the end of the night, glowing smiles matched the glowing gear as participants celebrated a successful event filled with energy and enthusiasm. The Glow Run 5K stood out as a highlight of the season, reflecting the passion and leadership of the PA Class of 2027 and leaving the community excited for what they’ll organize next.”

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Gardner‑Webb Celebrates Selah Week: A Christ‑Centered Pause with Purpose

Office of University Communications — Tue, 03 Feb 2026 21:14:43 +0000

Speaker Ronnie Parrott and Worship Leader, Alumnus Cialen Gadsen, Invite Campus Community to Grow in Faith and Service

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—“Selah, se·lah (SAY‑lah), a Hebrew musical or liturgical term appearing in the Psalms, generally understood to mean ‘pause,’ ‘rest,’ or ‘break,’ and is used to signal a moment of reflection or emphasis within a sacred text.”

Drawing from this definition, Selah Week at Gardner‑Webb University invites students to set aside time to strengthen their faith. “We want students to pause from their semester and consider who Jesus is more intimately,” explained Neal Payne, GWU associate minister for Student Ministries. “This year’s theme is ‘Belonging,’ and we will talk about how belief leads to belonging and how that moves us to being part of the larger Body of Christ, especially being part of a local church and using our spiritual gifts to serve one another and to glorify Christ.”

Ronnie Parrott

Payne, a GWU alumnus, said Selah Week, has been an annual Spring Semester event at �� for many years. Services will be held on Tuesday, Feb. 17, and Thursday, Feb. 19, at 9:25 a.m. and 7:30 p.m. in Tucker Student Center. The morning programs are part of the regular Dimensions series and include testimony from a student. The evening programs feature testimony from a faculty or staff member.

The speaker is Ronnie Parrott, lead pastor of Christ Community Church in Huntersville, N.C. He completed his bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees at Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Ky., and previously pastored churches in Kentucky and Arkansas. (He is no relation to Dr. Josh Parrott, GWU vice president and university chaplain for Christian Life and Service.)

Leading worship for the evening services is Cialen Gadsen, a 2025 alumnus who is a graduate student in the GWU Master of Science in Strength and Conditioning program. A resident of Gaffney, S.C., Gadsen plays drums, piano and guitar. He serves in the worship ministry of a local church and leads a men’s faith group in Charlotte, N.C.

“To me, Selah Week shows my intentional pause,” he acknowledged. “It’s me stepping away from the noise of everyday life to reflect, worship, and realign my heart with God. It’s another reminder for everyone that true rest, reflection, and worship are a necessity, especially in our walk with Christ.”

Cialen Gadsen

Gadsen’s statement resonated with Millie Raymer, a �� junior psychology major who helped Payne plan the event. She serves in a work-study role with Campus Ministries United (CMU) and appreciates the mission of the student-led group and its passion for service. “The heart behind this special week is to allow students the safe space to draw nearer to the Father or even get to know Him for the first time,” she emphasized. “This year, Selah Week is loosely focused on each person’s unique spiritual gifts and how they fit into the body of Christ. We will explore what the spiritual gifts are and what that means in one’s own personal walk with the Lord.”

Remembering his own experience, Gadsen noted that he is honored to participate in the services. “Events like Selah Week were times where God truly met us in a real and personal way,” he said. “I want to help create space for students to pause, reflect, and encounter God.”

He added that CMU and the Office of Christian Life and Service significantly shaped his faith journey. “They created spaces where faith was lived out authentically, not just talked about,” he affirmed. “Through worship, community, and leadership opportunities, I was able to serve others, alongside friends, with humility and purpose. True connections and friendships were made because of it.”

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From Microbiology to Mentorship: Susan Manahan Retiring After Three Decades at ��

Office of University Communications — Thu, 04 Dec 2025 18:33:47 +0000

Honored as Faculty Emerita, Assistant Professor of Biology Leaves a Legacy of Service and Student Success

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—When �� begins its 2026 Spring Semester on Jan. 12, Assistant Professor of Biology Susan Manahan won’t drive 70 miles to teach her classes that day. After 31 years at the University, Manahan is retiring on Dec. 31. At the November faculty meeting, Manahan was granted the rank of Faculty Emeritus status upon her retirement.

Manahan will deeply miss her colleagues and students, but she will not miss her two-and-a-half-hour commute each weekday. The drive hasn’t always been wearisome. Over the years, Manahan used the time in the morning to gather her thoughts and plan for the day ahead. The radio was tuned to NPR, oldies rock, or classical music. On the way home, she treated the trip as a mental reset, intentionally leaving the activities of the day behind.

During her tenure at ��, Manahan has championed scientific exploration and community service. She developed both of these traits early in life growing up in the Poconos in Pennsylvania. As a little girl, she often rode her bike miles from home, stopping to examine the plants and animals in the forest. Her parents modeled service for her and taught her the blessing of helping others through their faith. As a Girl Scout, she also learned the values of community service and environmental stewardship.

After graduating with degrees in microbiology and nutrition from Penn State University, Manahan’s first job was working as a quality control technician for Bachman Pretzel Company in Reading, Pa. She was responsible for chemical analysis of snack foods, package inspections, and environmental hygiene control. After moving to North Carolina with her husband, Wayne, she became a microbiologist for Stouffer Foods in Gaffney, S.C. Her job involved microbial testing of ingredients and final products.

After about six years, Manahan needed a change from working in an industrial environment. She lived near UNC-Charlotte, so she decided to obtain her master’s degree in biology. While there, she worked as a research assistant, and she met Dr. Barbara Burkett, a GWU professor. “She was collaborating with a faculty member and suggested I interview for the microbiology job at ��,” Manahan related.

While interviewing for the position, Manahan sensed that GWU was a good fit for her, because of its Christian foundation and emphasis on missions and service. She remembered the interview committee’s surprise when she told them she was a volunteer firefighter. “They asked, ‘So, do you bring drinks to the firemen?’” Manahan reflected. “I said, ‘No, I have my own fire gear. I fight fires.’ And I think, that was one of the things they saw about me. I think outside the box a little bit, and I am service-minded and one to help other people.”

She was impressed with the kindness of the �� faculty and staff and the care they had for students. Manahan accepted the position, which was her first full-time teaching job. Burkett became a mentor, and she received support, advice and teaching tips from former professors and faculty emeriti, Dr. Tom Jones and Dr. Les Brown.

The late Dr. Jack Partain, �� professor emeritus of religion, helped her navigate her first accreditation process. She is thankful for everyone she’s had the privilege to serve alongside through the years. “I work with a lot of nice people,” she acknowledged. “I have a lot of nice students. So, it’s the people I work with and see every day—that is why I stayed here that long—and what I’m going to miss the most.”

Some of her most memorable times were the trips she took with Burkett and Partain. Manahan and her husband went with Burkett and a group of students to the Amazon. They saw many animals and went across the walkway in the sky. Partain led a faculty trip to Kenya and Tanzania, where he had served as a missionary. A rewarding moment of the trip was meeting the Maasai people.

Beyond these unforgettable travels, Manahan’s dedication to students extended beyond the classroom. A highlight of her career has been mentoring undergraduates in their independent research and helping them achieve their goals. Her students have pursued various professions in pharmacy, medicine, dentistry, and wildlife biology.

Manahan worked to ensure students had the tools and opportunities to investigate and analyze real-world scientific challenges. One of her first initiatives was to apply for and obtain a grant to purchase equipment for gel electrophoresis, which uses an electric field to separate molecules like DNA, RNA, or proteins by size and charge. These systems expanded research opportunities for �� students that enhanced their applications for graduate school or career opportunities.

Manahan was chair of the Department of Natural Sciences from 2006 to 2011 and supervised the building of the 23,514 square-foot Laboratory Center annex to Withrow Hall that was completed in 2012. She and the faculty collaborated on the plans and visited other universities to gather ideas. Once finalized, Manahan met with the contractors and reviewed blueprints.

During the same time period, she was the director for the University’s Service-Learning Program. Through her efforts and initiative to collect data on the various service projects completed by classes, teams, and other campus groups, Manahan applied for and received:

The President’s Honor Roll for Community Engagement from 2006 to 2015.
Honors for economic, general service, and interfaith opportunities in 2014.
InterFaith Challenge Service Honor Roll in 2014 and 2015.
Carnegie Elective Classification for Community Engagement in 2010.

Manahan also promoted and assisted in organizing large service projects, such as Octoberfest, Enchanted Forest, and Dr. Seuss (reading) Day. Another major achievement was partnering with former GWU Registrar Lou Ann Scates in 2011 to create the Little Bulldog Backpack Program, which is still active today, collecting donations and providing food to elementary school children in need.

“We have a lot of people involved in service, and I just feel that is an important aspect of ��,” Manahan stated. “As we’re trying to teach students how to think and how to learn and how to be better people, service should be a big component of what we do.”

About Faculty Emeritus Status

Emeritus Status is reserved for those who have retired from full-time teaching at �� with at least 15 years of service. Symbolic in nature, this rank recognizes outstanding faculty contributions to the life of ��.