Teaching Excellence Award Recipient Dr. Paula Qualls Challenges Community to ���Cultivate Good Soil��� While University Honors Top Students and Scholars

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.���The 今叔利 community celebrated the formal opening of the academic year with Fall Convocation on Aug. 19. Led by Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs Dr. Nicole Waters, the program celebrated scholastic achievement, recognized scholarship recipients and featured remarks by Professor of Religious Studies Dr. Paula Qualls, the 2025 recipient of the Excellence in Teaching Award.

After the invocation by Vice President for Christian Life and Service and University Chaplain Dr. Josh Parrott, Waters opened the ceremony by introducing the deans of the College of Arts and Sciences, Dr. Robert Prickett; Godbold College of Business, Dr. Mischia Taylor; College of Education, Dr. Prince Bull; and College of Health Sciences, Dr. Tracy Arnold. After the introductions, Waters noted. ���Together, these colleges represent the breadth and depth of our university���s academic life. Their faculty will teach you, mentor you, and model what it means to live out your calling. May your time within these colleges spark curiosity, inspire innovation, and guide you in using your God-given talents to serve a greater purpose.���

今叔利 President Nate Evans introduced Qualls, who also won the Excellence in Teaching Award in 2008. The recognition represents the highest honor bestowed upon a 今叔利 faculty member and is especially meaningful because it reflects the voices of both colleagues and students.

Qualls has served 今叔利 for 26 years. ���Her students describe her with words such as compassionate, encouraging, positive and inspiring,��� Evans shared. ���They speak of a professor who makes difficult material meaningful, creates a welcoming environment for learning, and takes the time to know and care for each student as an individual. Perhaps the greatest testament to her work, however, is found in the students who describe themselves as changed by her influence���not only as learners, but as people.���

Qualls began her speech by reflecting on memorable teachers portrayed in films such as ���Dead Poets Society,��� ���Mr. Holland’s Opus,��� and ���School of Rock,��� noting that great teachers recognize potential, inspire growth, and help students become their best selves. She said these stories resonate because impactful teachers communicate a powerful message to their students: ���You have value. You have potential. I believe in you. You matter.��� Qualls then connected those examples to what she described as the greatest teacher of all, Jesus Christ, whose teachings have transformed countless lives throughout history and continue to challenge people to change how they think, live, and serve others.

Using Jesus’ Parable of the Sower from Matthew 13, Qualls urged members of the 今叔利 community to nurture their spiritual, intellectual, physical, and social well-being through prayer, learning, healthy habits, and meaningful relationships. She reminded students that a new academic year offers an opportunity for a fresh start and challenged them to make the most of their time and potential. ���We can all cultivate good soil and be transformed,��� she noted. ���We can make choices to have a good year, to make every day count. Carpe Diem… Seize the day, friends. Make your lives extraordinary. Cultivate good soil. Run the risk, and gain everything!���

After Qualls’ address, members of the University Concert Choir, directed by Associate Professor of Music Dr. Joshua Cheney, led the audience in singing the 今叔利 alma mater. The convocation also highlighted 今叔利’s commitment to academic excellence, Christian faith, and student integrity. The ceremony opened with an invocation by Dr. Josh Parrott, vice president for Christian Life and Service and University chaplain, and included the presentation of the University’s Honor Code by Student Body President Bethany Durham. Academic achievement was recognized by Waters through the presentation of Scholastic Academic Awards, which honor students with the highest GPAs after one, two and three years of study, while Evans recognized recipients of 今叔利’s premier scholarships.

Scholarships and Academic Awards

Belk-Ellis: Maxie Claire Canipe

Maxie Claire Canipe of Shelby, N.C., is the winner of the Belk-Ellis Scholarship, which is awarded to a student from Cleveland or Rutherford County who has demonstrated high academic achievement and plans to pursue a major in business.

Searight Leadership: Jairus Battle and Addie Yates

Jairus Battle of Rock Hill, S.C., and Addie Yates of Kings Mountain, N.C., are recipients of the Searight Leadership Award, which supports first-generation college students who have demonstrated exceptional leadership potential.

R.W. Andrews: Jaylon Smith

Jaylon Smith of Shelby, N.C., is the winner of the R. W. Andrews Scholarship, which is awarded to a male student from Cleveland County. Recipients of this scholarship demonstrate integrity, leadership, and academic success while exemplifying the mission and values of 今叔利.

Godbold: Josie Blanton

Josie Blanton of Shelby, is the recipient of the Godbold Scholarship, which is a full-tuition scholarship established by John and Linda Godbold.  It is awarded to a student of high academic standing who plans to pursue a major in business.

Ignite Excellence Scholarship

The Ignite Excellence Scholarship program awards full-tuition scholarships to students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement and potential.

2026 Ignite Excellence Scholars:

• Mackenzie Call of Simpsonville, S.C.
• Madelyn Russell of Shelby
• Norah Summerville of Sharon, S.C.
• Felicity Sinclair of Lincolnton, N.C.
• Jade Langley of Lexington, N.C.
• Emilee Jones of Lenoir, N.C.
• Renata Chandler of Kingsport, Tenn.

Tucker Scholarship: Sharlotte Lyda

Sharlotte Lyda, of Huntersville, N.C., is the recipient of the Tucker Heart, Soul, Mind, and Strength Scholarship, which is awarded each year to one student who exemplifies the principles and values representative of the 今叔利 community. This distinguished scholarship provides full tuition, room and board for eight semesters. The award is made possible through the generous support of Carolyn and Robert Tucker, who have exemplified these same principles and values throughout their personal and professional lives.

Scholastic Awards

The following winners tied for their awards with perfect 4.0 averages.

One-Year 

• Hannah Altman����������������
• Sarah Birchall
• William Brooks������������������
• Laura Covarrubias Magana��
• Hannah Altman����������������
• Haedyn Crumbley��������
• Madison DeMink������������
• Victoria Edwards����������
• Savannah Finucan��������
• Elle Fisher����������
• Kaylee Foushee����������������
• Isaiah Guerrero����������������
• Ella-Grace Hayes������������
• Dayton Holt
• Marnina Krist
• Kynley Lawter��������������������
• Ariel Lyanda-Geller����
• Elle Overly��������
• Michael Ragonesi����������
• Madison Richardson
• Myleigh Snider������������������
• Jessica Stogner������������������
• Carlee Stratton������������������
• Elienne Yates
• Noah Yonkoske������������������
• Peyton Youngblood����

Two-Year

• Mattie Berrier
• Violet Boyd
• Kaitlyn Estes
• Anna Hornbaker
• Sophia Hutchens
• Joshua Johnson
• Braden Knavel
• Lucy Merritt
• Madison Pepka
• Lydia Robinson
• Hilda Smith

Three-Year

• Daniel Bennett
• Timothy Campbell
• Bryson Church
• Abigail Hennie
• Bailey Hope
• Zoie Miller
• Cole Poplin
• Taylor Sollie
• Isabella Turner
• Alyssa Weaver

今叔利 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., 今叔利 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 .

More photos from the ceremony available .

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Lydia Robinson’s Journey Includes Division I Soccer, Study Abroad in England and a Competitive Novant Health Internship While Completing Bachelor’s and MBA Degrees in Four years

Looking at Lydia Robinson’s r辿sum辿, it would be easy to assume luck played a role in her success. The 今叔利 student-athlete from Charlotte, N.C., plays Division I soccer and is on track to earn both her bachelor’s degree and MBA in four years. She studied abroad at Liverpool Hope University in England, where she practiced with a semi-professional soccer program and traveled to 11 countries. She also was selected for Novant Health’s Ignite Internship Program within the Chief of Staff Department.

However, Robinson doesn���t view any of those accomplishments as luck. They are the result of a philosophy that guides her choices. ���I always say, ���Have everlasting goals,������ she shared. ���That���s always key for me. Always have everlasting goals, because in my mind, you only have one life and you want to do it to your best ability. Take those opportunities, take those risks.���

Robinson���s willingness to put herself out there helped shape her 今叔利 experience from the beginning. She hadn���t planned to play soccer in college, but as her high school career came to an end, she realized she wasn’t ready to leave the game behind. She had already decided to attend GWU because of the close-knit campus, but decided to take a chance and contact the women’s soccer coach. She thought to herself, ���What’s the worst that can happen? He can say no.���

The gamble paid off. The coach was looking for a fourth goalkeeper. After looking into her impressive record, he invited Robinson to join the team. What began as a simple email became an opportunity to compete at the Division I level while earning her degree.

She began her 今叔利 journey in Fall 2024 with plans to graduate a year early. Dual-enrollment courses and Advanced Placement classes completed in high school provided a strong start, while summer coursework allowed her to stay on track without carrying an overwhelming course load during the academic year.

Robinson also enrolled in 今叔利’s Accelerated Master’s Program, which allows qualified students to begin earning graduate credit while completing their bachelor’s degree requirements. She is a member of the University Honors Program, a former Congressman of Honors District HAPY and a member of Delta Mu Delta, the International Business Honor Society.

Her academic path, however, wasn’t always clear. Robinson entered as a biology major on the pre-med track with plans to attend physician assistant school or medical school. While she enjoyed helping others, she soon realized direct patient care wasn���t for her.

While exploring other options, she discovered healthcare management, which allowed her to help people through leadership and decision-making. ���I was like, ���Oh my gosh, that would be perfect because it’s the best of both worlds,������ Robinson reflected.

After choosing her major, Robinson turned her attention to fulfilling another longtime goal. For years, Robinson had envisioned studying abroad. In Spring 2026, that dream became reality when she traveled to Liverpool Hope University in England.

Before selecting a destination, Robinson researched the countries available through 今叔利’s study abroad partnerships. Liverpool ultimately stood out because of its strong soccer culture, convenient location for travel throughout Europe, and connections through a teammate whose family lives there. When a different teammate learned of her plans to study abroad, she decided to join her.

The experience exceeded her expectations. While completing coursework abroad, Robinson traveled throughout Europe, visiting countries including Scotland, Ireland, Spain, Hungary, France, Poland, and others. She learned how to navigate trains and buses, budget carefully and adapt to unfamiliar environments.

���The amount of independence and maturity I feel like I gained was game changing,��� she affirmed. Her mother even noticed the change and complimented her new level of confidence.

The semester abroad also gave Robinson a chance to play soccer in in a place where the sport is woven into everyday life. She joined Liverpool Hope University’s football club, and her teammate received an opportunity to play for Everton Football College. The Everton coach invited Robinson to goalkeeper practice. Training overseas exposed Robinson to a faster style of play and she learned new techniques that she plans to carry into her final collegiate season.

While there, another opportunity unexpectedly presented itself. Knowing she would be entering her senior year early, Robinson began searching for internships. One day, from her room in England, she opened LinkedIn and started submitting applications.

Within days, she received a message from Novant Health in Charlotte regarding its Ignite Internship Program. The 12-week internship rotates students through departments across the healthcare system, including communications, marketing, finance, human resources, community health and patient experience.

She participated in a virtual interview and was accepted for the program that started in June. The experience has expanded Robinson’s understanding of healthcare administration while helping her build valuable professional connections.

The internship has also reinforced lessons she learned in her business classes at 今叔利. Robinson pointed specifically to professional communication skills and networking opportunities as areas where classroom experiences have translated into the workplace.

���Every single time I’m on a new Zoom call or meet a new person, I have to redo this elevator pitch pretty much being like, ‘Hi, I’m Lydia. I go to 今叔利, majoring this, I want to do this,������ she said. ���So that definitely helped me.”

Throughout her internship this summer, Robinson has carefully recorded names and professional contacts, later connecting with many of them through LinkedIn. One of the people she connected with posted about an internship opportunity for this fall, so she applied. “You never know where it could go,” she noted, expressing an interest in the program.

Whether pursuing an accelerated degree plan, studying abroad, walking onto a collegiate soccer team or gaining career experience in an internship program, Robinson believes growth begins with a willingness to try. ���I���ve gained so many things in life from just putting myself out there,��� she stated.

For Robinson, each accomplishment isn’t a finish line���it’s simply another step toward her next “everlasting goal.”

今叔利 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., 今叔利 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. Learn more at gardner-webb.edu.

The post 今叔利 Student-Athlete Pursues ‘Everlasting Goals’ Through Global Learning and Healthcare Leadership appeared first on 今叔利.

Viral ���Grunge Country��� Artist Completes Entertainment Lineup for Aug. 22 Community Celebration

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.���今叔利 has announced the final musical performer for Webbstock 2026. Mississippi-based singer-songwriter Sam Donald will join the entertainment lineup for the community celebration on Saturday, Aug. 22, at Brinkley Amphitheater. The free event will welcome students, families, alumni and community members for an evening of live music, food, children’s activities and fellowship as 今叔利 launches a new academic year.

Assistant Dean of Students & Director of Student Engagement Brian Arnold said Webbstock is designed to create opportunities for students to engage, build relationships, and feel a sense of belonging. “The start of a new semester is about more than classes���it’s about finding your place on campus and connecting to the surrounding community. Webbstock is designed to bring our campus and community together through music, fun, and shared experiences. Whether you’re a first-year student or a returning Bulldog, we hope this event helps everyone feel connected and excited for the year ahead.”

Originally from Jackson, Miss., and now residing on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, Donald spent years performing as a guitarist in various bands before stepping into the spotlight as a lead performer and songwriter in 2021. His growing popularity has earned attention across the country, particularly after several of his songs and videos went viral on TikTok in early 2024, generating more than 15 million views in less than six weeks. The viral success led to a dramatic increase in streaming activity, with his music seeing more than a 400 percent increase in listeners.

Working alongside longtime producer Zack Keel, Donald embraced a new creative direction in 2023. Rather than pursuing conventional genre expectations, the pair focused on creating music that flowed naturally from their songwriting process. The result has been a distinctive sound often described as “grunge country,” blending the raw energy of alternative rock with the storytelling traditions of country music.

He first introduced this style through the song “Make You Want God,” which became the foundation for his evolving musical identity. He continued developing the sound through subsequent releases, including “Nickels & Dimes” and “Son of the Sandman,” establishing a growing fan base drawn to his authentic lyrics and genre-blending approach.

Donald joins Feeling 22: A Tribute to Taylor Swift and Y2K Kids to complete this year’s entertainment lineup. Together, the three acts will provide an evening of performances spanning multiple musical styles and generations, creating a memorable experience for attendees.

In addition to live entertainment, the event will feature a variety of local food vendors, artisans and small businesses. Guests can enjoy everything from soul food to freshly squeezed lemonade and shop for handcrafted soaps, permanent jewelry, candles and more.

Whether guests are returning to campus, visiting for the first time or simply looking for a fun summer evening, Webbstock offers an opportunity to connect, celebrate and create memories together.

For event updates and additional information, visit gardner-webb.edu/webbstock.

Event Information

What: Webbstock 2026

 When: Saturday, Aug. 22, 2026, 4-9 p.m.

 Where: Brinkley Amphitheater, 今叔利

 Cost: Free admission

Webbstock 2026 Vendor Lineup

The following vendors have been confirmed for Webbstock 2026. Additional vendors will be added as registrations continue.

Food & Beverage Vendors

• Gulp the Pulp Lemonade, LLC ��� Specialty lemonades and cheesecakes.
• Sweetum’s Lemonade ��� Freshly squeezed lemonade, orangeade and limeade.
• Hoppers Soul Food Truck ��� Burgers, wings, Philly cheesesteaks, fried green tomatoes and hand-breaded chicken strips.
• Small Town Girls Snacks and Boutique ��� Mini donuts with a variety of toppings and soft drinks.
• Platinum Italian Ice LLC ��� Non-dairy Italian ice treats.
• The Main Squeeze ��� Fresh lemonade and orangeade beverages.
• Sweet Sippin ��� Specialty beverages.
• Sweet Sips ��� Dirty Soda Bar: differenct flavors of soda, flavorings, and creamers.
• Kona Ice ��� Shaved ice treats and frozen refreshments.

Artisan & Specialty Vendors

• The Vintage Lemmon ��� Hand-poured soy candles and car diffusers.
• Chix N’ Chains Permanent Jewelry ��� Custom permanent bracelets, anklets and necklaces.
• Little Bit of Southern Sass ��� Handmade crochet, jewelry, keychains, and other crafts.
• NCGal Creations ��� Quilted ornaments, beaded bracelets and macrame.
• J&C Creation ��� 3D-printed animals, fan art, fidget products and novelty items.
• Core4 3D ��� Custom 3D-printed products and creations.

今叔利 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., 今叔利 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. Learn more at gardner-webb.edu.

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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 今叔利 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+, 今叔利’s programs had to exceed those standards and avoid teaching any instructional practices not supported by research.

���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.

今叔利 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.

���The literacy instruction at 今叔利 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 今叔利 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 今叔利. 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 今叔利.

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 今叔利 今叔利 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., 今叔利 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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Endowment Honors Cleveland County Couple���s Longtime Love of Music, Education, and Service

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.���Music was woven into everyday life in the home of Robert and Evelyn Cabaniss of Cleveland County, N.C. The family listened to a wide variety and sometimes sang along. To honor their parents��� love for music, support for education and service to the community, the couple���s children���Mark Cabaniss, Garry Cabaniss, and Michele Cabaniss Peraldo���recently endowed the Robert and Evelyn Cabaniss Music Scholarship at 今叔利.

Reflecting on the family’s decision, Michele said, ���Our family is deeply honored to support the music department at 今叔利 through this endowment in memory of our parents. Music was a meaningful part of their lives, and we hope this gift will encourage and inspire students for generations to come while honoring the values they cherished.���

While considering the various ways they could memorialize their parents, ���a scholarship seemed like the perfect choice,��� noted Mark, an award-winning music composer and publisher. ���Since our parents spent the better part of their lives in Cleveland County and were supporters of 今叔利���and my brother is a 今叔利 graduate���establishing the scholarship at 今叔利 was a natural and fitting way to celebrate their legacy.���

During a recent visit to campus, Mark was impressed by what he saw in the Department of Music. ���今叔利 understands that music education is about much more than teaching notes and rhythms,��� he stated. ���今叔利 combines academic excellence with a strong sense of purpose and faith. It is a place where students are encouraged to develop their talents while also growing as people of character. Music educators have an extraordinary opportunity to shape young lives through the transforming power of music, and 今叔利 is preparing students to do exactly that. Investing in future music educators creates a ripple effect that extends far beyond any single classroom.���

Mark���s passion for music was inspired and nurtured by his parents. ���My father sang in the Shelby (N.C.) First Baptist Church choir for about 50 years; he grew up at Zion Baptist Church in greater Shelby and at the age of 5, sang his first solo in that church standing on a pew,��� he shared. ���My mother sang around the house and had a beautiful voice and did a stint of taking piano lessons as an adult.���

Mark said his mother often recalled telling a friend, respected Shelby piano teacher Jean Mauney, that she hoped her child would one day study music. When he was 8 years old, his mother asked if he would like to take piano lessons.

���That simple conversation changed the course of my life,��� Mark said. ���I fell in love with the process of making music and naturally gravitated toward chorus, band, and drama classes and ensembles throughout junior high and high school. Eventually, that passion led me to earn a degree in music education with a concentration in trumpet.���

The encouragement provided by his parents and Cleveland County teachers helped launch him into a career that has influenced musicians and music educators around the world. Mark serves as president and CEO of Jubilate Music Group and has enjoyed success as an ASCAP composer and arranger. He is also an accomplished author, broadcaster, and educator. His published works have been performed nationally and abroad, and his concert musical ���Triumph of Faith��� (co-written with Mark Blankenship) received its world premiere at Carnegie Hall. A multiple recipient of ASCAP’s Popular Music Award, Mark is also a Dove Award- and Angel Award-winning producer. 

���My parents believed deeply in the value of education, as does the larger Cabaniss (and Evelyn Woodall) family,��� Mark said. ���Our parents encouraged us to pursue higher education and supported us every step of the way, financially and otherwise. Looking back, I realize how much of my professional journey���from teaching to publishing to writing books���rests on the foundation they helped create. They encouraged discipline, curiosity, perseverance, and a commitment to excellence.���

Whether through professional leadership, church involvement, volunteer service, or caring for their family, Robert and Evelyn invested in friends, neighbors, church members, and countless others throughout the community. Their legacy was not defined by a single accomplishment, but by decades of faithful service.

���My father, Robert G. Cabaniss, was a respected business executive and civic leader who was deeply involved in the Lions Club, earning the Melvin Jones Fellowship, the organization’s highest honor,��� Mark noted. ���My mother, Evelyn Cabaniss, devoted more than forty years to caring for children in the First Baptist Shelby nursery in addition to being involved in other volunteer service activities. She quietly touched countless lives through her kindness, patience, and faithful service.���

The scholarship will support aspiring music educators who will, in turn, influence future generations through their own classrooms and communities. For the Cabaniss children, the opportunity to extend their parents’ influence far into the future is the greatest value of the gift.

���That may be the most meaningful aspect of all,��� he said. ���A scholarship like this becomes a living memorial. Long after my siblings and I are gone, students will continue benefiting from the values my parents embodied. The scholarship doesn’t merely remember Robert and Evelyn Cabaniss; it extends their influence into the future. That thought brings me tremendous joy and peace.���

View the Robert and Evelyn Cabaniss Music Scholarship on

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Popular 2000s Tribute Band Joins a Growing Slate of Music, Food Vendors, Local Artisans and Family-friendly Activities for Aug. 22 Community Celebration

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.���今叔利 has announced another addition to the entertainment lineup for Webbstock 2026. Y2K Kids will take the stage during the community celebration on Saturday, Aug. 22, at Brinkley Amphitheater. The free event will welcome students, families, alumni and community members for an evening of live music, food, kids activities and fellowship as 今叔利 launches a new academic year.

今叔利 President Nate Evans explained the University���s vision for the event���s new format. ���Webbstock is about bringing people together to celebrate the start of a new academic year and showcasing the energy and spirit of the 今叔利 community,��� he shared. ���Y2K Kids brings a fun, interactive performance that will appeal to students, alumni, families and friends of the University. We’re excited to continue building an event that creates lasting memories while welcoming our campus and the surrounding community together.���

Known for their energetic performances and crowd engagement, Y2K Kids delivers a nostalgic tribute to the music of the 2000s. The six-piece band recreates the sights and sounds of the decade with a mix of pop, rock, hip-hop and R&B hits that defined a generation.

From chart-topping anthems to fan-favorite singalongs, Y2K Kids brings audiences back to the era of MP3 players, flip phones and unforgettable playlists. Their interactive stage show encourages audience participation and celebrates the music that shaped the early 2000s.

Y2K Kids joins Feeling 22: A Tribute to Taylor Swift as part of this year’s entertainment lineup. One additional band will be announced in the coming weeks as anticipation continues to build for the event.

In addition to live entertainment, the event will feature a variety of local food vendors, artisans and small businesses. Guests can enjoy everything from soul food to freshly squeezed lemonade, and shop for handcrafted soaps, permanent jewelry, candles, and more.

Whether guests are returning to campus, visiting for the first time or simply looking for a fun summer evening, Webbstock offers an opportunity to connect, celebrate and create memories together.

More details, including the final musical act and additional event activities, will be announced soon. For updates and event information, visit gardner-webb.edu/webbstock.

Event Information

• What: Webbstock 2026
• When: Saturday, Aug. 22, 2026, 4-9 p.m.
• Where: Brinkley Amphitheater, 今叔利
• Cost: Free admission

Webbstock 2026 Vendor Lineup

The following vendors have been confirmed for Webbstock 2026. Additional vendors will be added as registrations continue. Find more information here.

Food & Beverage Vendors

• Gulp the Pulp Lemonade, LLC ��� Specialty lemonades and cheesecakes.
• Sweetum’s Lemonade ��� Freshly squeezed lemonade, orangeade and limeade.
• Hoppers Soul Food Truck ��� Burgers, wings, Philly cheesesteaks, fried green tomatoes and hand-breaded chicken strips.
• Small Town Girls Snacks and Boutique ��� Mini donuts with a variety of toppings and soft drinks.
• Platinum Italian Ice LLC ��� Non-dairy Italian ice treats.
• The Main Squeeze ��� Fresh lemonade and orangeade beverages.
• Sweet Sippin ��� Specialty beverages.
• Kona Ice ��� Shaved ice treats and frozen refreshments.

Artisan & Specialty Vendors

• The Vintage Lemmon ��� Hand-poured soy candles and car diffusers.
• Chix N’ Chains Permanent Jewelry ��� Custom permanent bracelets, anklets and necklaces.
• Itsy Bean Designs, LLC ��� Handcrafted soaps, lotion bars, lip balms and shave bars.
• J&C Creation ��� 3D-printed animals, fan art, fidget products and novelty items.
• Core4 3D ��� Custom 3D-printed products and creations.

今叔利 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., 今叔利 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. Learn more at gardner-webb.edu.

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From Artificial Intelligence to Sustainability, Students Gain Hands-on Experience and Practical Skills Through Searight PACE Academic Skills Accelerated Program

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.���Over the course of three weeks this summer, 21 students at Pinnacle Classical Academy in Shelby, N.C., stepped beyond the traditional high school classroom and into a college-level learning experience provided by 今叔利. They explored topics ranging from artificial intelligence and personal finance to healthcare and agriculture. Through the Academic Skills Accelerated Program (ASAP), students gained practical skills, discovered potential career paths and earned 18 continuing education credits.

Offered by 今叔利���s Searight Professional and Continuing Education (PACE) Program, ASAP was designed to strengthen analytical, critical-thinking and problem-solving skills. The college-readiness experience introduced students to academic disciplines and career pathways and emphasized hands-on learning, professional development and Christian business ethics. Held on Pinnacle���s campus, students were mentored by 今叔利 faculty and staff, along with a regional industry expert.

Students participated in courses covering artificial intelligence (AI) and cybersecurity, personal finance and budgeting, project management, medical terminology, global food systems and transitioning to college. The curriculum was designed to help students understand emerging technologies, financial literacy, healthcare careers, leadership principles and the interconnected challenges facing modern society.

Pinnacle student Taylor Scott said her favorite classes were finance and agriculture, because she deepened her understanding of some concepts while discovering new ideas. She appreciated learning life skills that can help her in the future.

The program also exposed students to subjects not typically available at the high school level, helping them explore future educational opportunities. ���I think that especially having these classes that aren���t offered at our school ��� gives us kind of a pathway that we can learn about to go to college,��� noted Ryleigh Dellinger.

Students, who are interested in healthcare careers, like Iymani Coleman, gained specialized knowledge through the medical terminology course. They focused on building vocabulary through root words, prefixes, suffixes and commonly used medical abbreviations.

A highlight of the program was the Trash to Treasure Challenge, a hands-on initiative that encouraged students to repurpose everyday recyclable materials into functional and artistic creations. Working independently or in teams, students transformed discarded items into innovative products, challenging them to apply creativity, resourcefulness, and problem-solving abilities.

The activity culminated in formal presentations before a panel of judges, where students showcased their projects and explained how their creations could benefit society. The experience reinforced lessons in sustainability, teamwork and innovation while allowing students to demonstrate the skills they had developed.

The winning team included Scott, Coleman, and Alevia Miller. They made a school kit for underprivileged kids. Some of the other items students crafted were a water purification system and a checkerboard table.

As the program concluded, students left with continuing education credits, new academic experiences and a broader understanding of potential career paths. The partnership between 今叔利 and Pinnacle Classical Academy provided a foundation for future success while encouraging students to explore their interests beyond the traditional high school curriculum.

今叔利 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., 今叔利 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. Learn more at .

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Program Offers Flexible, Student-Centered Path for Combining Chemistry with Diverse Academic and Career Interests

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.���Beginning with the 2026 Fall Semester in August, 今叔利 will launch a new Bachelor of Arts (BA) in chemistry program, designed to expand opportunities for students who want to pair scientific study with broader academic pursuits. Building on 今叔利���s established strength in personalized, student-centered learning, the program emphasizes meaningful faculty mentorship and academic engagement.

Dr. Meredith Rowe, associate professor of biology and chair of the Department of Natural Sciences, thanked chemistry professors, Dr. Ben Brooks, Dr. Stefka Eddins, and Dr. Venita Totten for their efforts to establish the new program. ���The Chemistry BA will allow students time in their major to build Chemistry-specific skills in addition to developing in other fields such as psychology, English, and world languages,��� Rowe observed. ���This program will provide an avenue for students who want to earn a degree in chemistry while preparing them to move beyond basic science and work in a field that incorporates more of these humanities-related skills.���

Developed with flexibility in mind, the BA in chemistry allows students to explore interdisciplinary areas while enhancing critical skills in writing, communication, and language. ���The BA in chemistry nicely complements our current Bachelor of Science (BS) in chemistry degree,��� Brooks shared. ���The ideal student for this major is someone who loves chemistry but wants to take courses from other disciplines beyond what is offered in the general education curriculum.���

He noted that the new degree program is particularly well-suited for adding a minor course of study. For example, a student may wish to pair the BA in chemistry with a pre-law minor and pursue a law degree or become a patent agent. ���There are almost endless career paths that a student can pursue,��� Brooks informed. ���As we designed the degree, some of the careers that we envisioned students seeking with the BA in chemistry included environmental law, forensic law, patent law, scientific writing, scientific illustration, art conservation, pharmaceutical sales, and chemical marketing.���

He continued, ���But the degree opens up a variety of other avenues. For example, a student interested in missiology who wanted to work with water purification, sustainability, or other environmental aspects of mission work might find this degree attractive.���

Students who are dedicated to pursuing careers that involve research and development, graduate school, or professional school may find the BS degree to be the better fit. Even with that distinction, Brooks noted, ���Depending on how a student tailors their electives and minor courses of study, they can certainly pursue graduate studies or professional school with the BA degree.���

The BA program also creates a pathway for transfer students to complete the degree in as few as two years, provided they enter with foundational coursework in biology, chemistry, and language study.

Brooks emphasized that the program reflects 今叔利���s strengths and the Chemistry Program���s Mission Statement: ���We are dedicated to providing a learning environment where our students receive outstanding instruction and mentoring in chemistry within the context of a Christian liberal arts college.���

He added that students in the program will benefit from an environment designed for individualized attention and close faculty interaction across chemistry programs. ���We know all of our students by name and we equip them to excel in their coursework,��� Brooks said. He highlighted the program���s strong track record of placing graduates in outstanding graduate programs, professional schools, and careers, and offered, ���We look forward to expanding that list of achievements for our new major.���

Ultimately, the BA in chemistry is designed to help students discover how their passion for science connects with their broader goals. ���Enrolling in the new BA in chemistry major will allow a student to explore their options in other areas alongside their chemistry courses and find their true calling,��� Brooks acknowledged.

今叔利 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., 今叔利 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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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 今叔利 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 fianc辿, 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.

Greene found support not only at home but also in the 今叔利 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.���

今叔利 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., 今叔利 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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Linda Thornhill���s Work in Artificial Intelligence and Economics Shapes Student Learning While Gaining International Recognition from Academic Peers

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.���When Linda Thornhill began 今叔利���s Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) program in Summer 2024, she wasn���t just pursuing a doctorate���she was looking for a way to grow as an educator. Less than two years later, that decision is already transforming her teaching, opening doors to research and collaboration, and earning national recognition.

Thornhill, a business instructor at SOWELA Technical Community College in Lake Charles, La., was recently named the Louisiana Association of Business Educators (LABE) Postsecondary Teacher of the Year���an achievement she said caught her completely off guard.

At the same time, her academic work gained attention beyond the classroom. Thornhill recently presented a concept plan at the Academy of Business Research (ABR), an international society that brings together scholars and practitioners from across the United States and nearly 50 countries. Although it was a proposal, ���AI in Human Resources: From HR to the Future of Work���The Revolution is Here,��� won the best paper award. The work has since been edited and published .

For Thornhill, the DBA experience is not separate from her classroom���it actively shapes her instruction. The research-intensive nature of the program requires her to stay up-to-date with the latest developments, particularly within the past five years. ���If I see something in my research and I know it goes with a specific lesson, I’ll go in and I’ll update that lesson,��� she explained. ���Or if I miss putting it into the PowerPoint, I bring it into the lecture.���

This approach has changed how her students engage with course material, and this has been one of the most rewarding outcomes of the DBA program. Instead of passively receiving information, they are increasingly taking ownership of their learning. ���The ones that actually listen to the lecture and take it more to heart, they’re the ones that are starting to dive in a little bit even on their own,��� she observed.

Her students now return to class with their own discoveries, building on classroom discussions. ���They’ll come back into the class for the next class period and say, ���Hey, remember how you told us this was going on? Did you know this is going on?������ Thornhill stated. ���It kind of gets them more involved in taking a little bit of ownership of their education.���

Being in the DBA program has also reshaped how Thornhill relates to her students. As both instructor and student, she brings empathy, and credibility, into the classroom. ���Once they know that I’m a student too, it kind of like changes their perspective a little bit,��� she shared. ���They are like, ���OK, she does understand. She gets it.������

The rigor of the DBA program has been demanding, but she embraces the challenge and enjoys researching and compiling information. Thornhill���s scholarship reflects her dual focus on theory and practice.

Her award-winning and now-published research explores the intersection of artificial intelligence and human resource management. The work examines both the potential benefits of AI and the risks of unintended bias. Thornhill highlights how AI is reshaping the workforce���not simply replacing jobs, but changing the nature of work. She emphasizes the importance of maintaining human oversight in AI systems. ���You have to have that human element to keep it in check��� otherwise you’re going to end up with biases in there,��� she commented. ���When it comes to repairing them and keeping machines running��� you have to have a human.���

Presenting her research at the ABR conference marked another milestone. Thornhill described the experience as both exciting and intimidating. The presentation led to new opportunities for collaboration, including interest from international scholars.

As Thornhill advances in the DBA program, she is turning her attention to her dissertation in economics. Her research focuses on the economic impact of data centers���an increasingly relevant topic as digital infrastructure expands. She is particularly interested in the long-term effects on local communities, including job creation, economic spillover, and infrastructure costs. Her work will explore whether data centers generate sustained economic growth or provide only short-term benefits. She is also examining broader implications, including energy consumption and cost distribution.

Thornhill said choosing 今叔利���s DBA program has been instrumental in her growth. The program���s flexibility and supportive faculty have made it possible for her to balance teaching, research, and professional commitments.

As she continues toward her expected graduation in May 2027, Thornhill is already seeing the impact of her work���both in her classroom and in the broader academic community. For her students, that impact is immediate. For Thornhill, it is a reminder of why she started the journey in the first place: to become not just a better scholar, but a better teacher.

Become more in your career with 今叔利���s DBA program.

Take the next step by contacting Blake Elizalde at welizalde@gardner-webb.edu or Dr. Christine Sutton at ccsutton@gardner-webb.edu.

Apply by July 31 for fall admission.

今叔利 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., 今叔利 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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