Nominations Open until August 15 for Gardner-Webb Founders Medal

Annual Award Recognizes Exceptional Contributions to the University

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—In the same spirit as Gardner-Webb’s earliest founders, men and women throughout the institution’s 119-year history have provided distinguished service and support to further its mission. For the third consecutive year since renewing GWU’s Founders Day observances, the Office of President is inviting nominations for the recipient of the 2024 Founders Medal, the University’s most prestigious honor.

Nominations will be accepted until Aug. 15 at 11:59 p.m.

The presentation of the Founders Medal is a highlight of Gardner-Webb’s annual Founders Day celebration, which recognizes the date GWU (then Boiling Springs High School) was officially chartered on Dec. 2, 1905.

“Ours is a university rich in history,” emphasized Gardner-Webb President Dr. William Downs. “The indelible imprint of those who came before us can be seen in the buildings that adorn our 225-acre campus, it can be measured by the success of the programs that attract and prepare our students, and it can be felt in our surrounding community where GWU’s impact is both positive and enduring. It is our obligation as GWU’s present stewards to take time each year and honor the exceptional contributions of those persons who helped found, nurture, and grow one of America’s finest institutions of Christian higher education. The Founders Medal does just that.”

Last year’s medal was presented posthumously to J.D. Huggins, the first principal of Boiling Springs High School. Huggins, who was affectionately known as “Professor Huggins,” steadfastly lived his charge to care for the welfare, encouragement, and growth of the students. Read more here.

Receiving the inaugural Founders Medal awards in 2022 were John and Linda Godbold of Rock Hill, S.C., and the late North Carolina Governor O. Max and Fay Webb Gardner.

Gardner-Webb University 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., Gardner-Webb prepares graduates to impact their chosen professions, equips them with the skills to advance the frontiers of knowledge, and inspires them to make a positive and lasting difference in the lives of others. Ignite your future at Gardner-Webb.edu.