news-category: Academics GWU Student Teacher Utilizes Online Tools During Covid-19 Pandemic By Office of University Communications On July 1, 2020 Sydney Christopher, ’20, uses technology to engage with students and connect with parents Sydney Christopher, a Gardner-Webb 2020 graduate with a degree in elementary education, was in the midst of completing her student teaching when public schools closed to students in March. Her mentor was Rhonda Greene, a fourth-grade teacher at Springmore Elementary School in Boiling Springs. Christopher didn’t panic, because she said her professors in the College of Education had prepared her by emphasizing the importance of flexibility. “In all of the classes I have taken at Gardner-Webb, one thing my professors have taught me is to adapt to circumstances/challenges,” she shared. “I am very thankful for every professor who has taught me to never give up. My cooperating teacher and I set plans to continue educating our students. I found that using Zoom to teach lessons to students three times a week was very beneficial. Also communicating with parents at all hours every day was a necessity.” She said the school required each student to use an online program, called Edmentum, to further their learning. “By using Edmentum, Mrs. Greene and I were able to monitor the work students were completing and how to target their needs during our Zoom sessions,” Christopher said. “I also created three to nine videos a week to teach our students specific material that was covered in their Edmentum. Students and parents gave us feedback on how helpful the videos were for their child’s learning.” Christopher, who minored in professional education and American Sign Language, has accepted a job as a fifth-grade science teacher at Carr Elementary School in Dallas, N.C. To prepare for the new school year, she is participating in online training programs for “Leader in Me,” and gathering books and materials for her classroom. She will also use the school district’s curriculum pacing guide to create effective lessons. “I have always wanted to teach elementary school children, because my aim is to teach the upcoming generation how to be successful, effective, and empathetic leaders,” she asserted. “I want the upcoming generation to be accepting of one another. I also want them to understand that they have unlimited potential and are valued in this world.”
News Article Alpha Sigma Lambda Celebrates Achievements of 17 Gardner‑Webb Adult Students Honor Society Recognizes Academic Excellence, Leadership, and Character BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Gardner-Webb University’s Gamma Beta Upsilon Chapter of Alpha Sigma Lambda Honor Society recently inducted 17 students. They were honored for their academic achievements, excellent character, and civic responsibility. Dr. Wendy Athens, director of Academic Innovation and Digital Learning and Chapter Councilor, conducted the ceremony. She […] Office of University Communications | April 21, 2026
News Article Sigma Zeta National Math and Science Honor Society Inducts 24 New Members Gardner-Webb University Beta Tau Chapter Also Recognizes Seniors and New Officers BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—The Beta Tau Chapter of Sigma Zeta National Honor Society held its induction ceremony recently. Honored were 24 new members, who received membership certificates and a T-shirt. The new officers were installed. Graduating seniors were recognized and presented with honor cords to […] Office of University Communications | April 21, 2026
News Article Bulldog Nation Raises Over $2.5 Million for Double Dawg Day 2026 More Than 1,300 Donors Support Gardner-Webb University Students, Academics and Athletics BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—A shared sense of purpose and Bulldog energy fueled Double Dawg Day 2026 at Gardner‑Webb University, as alumni, parents, employees, students and friends rallied behind the institution’s mission. More than 1,300 contributed over $2.5 million to support scholarships, academics, athletics and campus […] Office of University Communications | April 17, 2026