Gardner-Webb University
Paul Foster, Assistant Dir.
Univ. & Media Relations
704-406-3221
July 18, 2006
BOILING SPRINGS, NC - The
Gardner-Webb University School of Business will be hosting the
first ever B.E.S.T. (Bringing Executives and Students Together)
Program, July 31 – August 4 in the Ritch Banquet Hall.
The BEST program is designed to bring together business owners, company executives, and community leaders in Cleveland County - with local high school students during a week long educational event. Students will have the opportunity to hear real life stories from entrepreneurs and learn hands on skills, such as budgeting, banking, computer proficiency, marketing, and study techniques by experts in these fields.
The BEST program was a concept that started following discussions among faculty members within the Gardner-Webb University School of Business. From there, the school of business received support from Cleveland County Commissioner, Willie McIntosh, who got the ball rolling and helped to gather support from the county commissioners board.
McIntosh believes the current partnership between Cleveland County and Gardner-Webb will benefit the business leaders of tomorrow, our students. “The relationship with Gardner-Webb is important, as we focus on what’s in the best interest of our county students. Governmental, university, and business leaders will partner to groom area students for future leadership roles through this program.”
Another key player in the program is BB&T of Shelby. Senior Vice President, Bill Flaherty is pleased to be contributing to the event. Flaherty says, “It’s a great way to give back to the community and provide students with sound business advice, such as managing money. Who knows? The county might be able to retain many of these students once their education is complete.”
Dean of the Gardner-Webb School of Business, Dr. Anthony Negbenebor looks forward to the potential of the program that goes beyond just an interest in business. “Contributors to this partnership have the chance to help our youth understand the importance of not only becoming a future business leader after college, but a good leader within their community.”
The members of the partnership also acknowledged the contributions to Bringing Executives and Students Together by the late David Boan, who served as vice president for development at Gardner-Webb. According to Matt Williams, major gifts officer for Gardner-Webb, “David worked hard over the last few months to make sure this program was supported by a diverse and generous group of sponsors. He was focused on making sure the BEST program was well equipped to provide a wonderful educational opportunity to Cleveland County students.”
The Shelby Star will also take part in the event, as Editor, Skip Foster serves as a guest speaker and other members of the Star will be on campus handing out free editions of the newspaper each day.
Sponsors for the event, include Chen’s of Shelby and Chen’s Fusion of Boiling Springs, Chick-Fil-A, and Domino’s Pizza.
The program takes place Monday-Friday from 8:30 am until 12:00 pm, with an awards luncheon on Friday from 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm.
Availability is limited, call for more information, Deborah Knupp at 704-406-4489 or Janie McClain at 704-406-4375.