Gardner-Webb Interim President Nate Evans Names New Vice President of Finance and Administration

Thomas Welch Joins the University with 20 years of Financial Management Experience

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Gardner-Webb Interim President Nate Evans has announced a new vice president of Finance and Administration. Thomas Welch of Brewer, Maine, will begin his duties at GWU on June 16 and will report directly to the president.

Welch, a certified public accountant, has 20 years of financial management experience, which includes 15 years working in higher education and five years in state government offices. He comes to GWU from Husson University in Bangor, Maine, where he also served as vice president for Finance and Administration, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and treasurer.

“Thomas brings a wealth of experience and a strong understanding of mission-driven financial leadership,” Evans stated. “He understands both the operational realities and strategic possibilities of higher education finance. As the higher education landscape continues to evolve, his insight and steady leadership will be vital in helping us navigate change, steward resources, and plan strategically for the University’s future.”

During his time at Husson, Welch managed various offices, and realigned the budget process and schedule to better match the financial aid and student enrollment timeline. He led the initial design and planning of an integrated dashboard for academic programs, and he implemented grant management forms not previously used by Husson in fiscal administration to better assure programmatic compliance.

Welch graduated in 2009 from Southern Wesleyan University in Columbia, S.C., with his Master of Business Administration. In 2005, he received his bachelor’s in accounting from Francis Marion University in Florence, S.C.

“With 15 years of experience in higher education across both public and private institutions, I deeply value the transformative power of learning and the career I have in helping deliver such,” Welch shared. “Gardner-Webb University’s commitment to Christian-driven education resonates with me, as I believe that academic knowledge and spiritual wisdom together create a powerful foundation for shaping well-rounded, purpose-driven leaders.”

In addition to experience in higher education, Welch served five years in South Carolina’s central government audit services. He was a senior audit manager in the governor’s office and also worked in the state auditor’s office as a supervisor of lower-level auditors.

With his financial management experience, Welch will work with GWU leaders to advance Gardner-Webb’s mission. “My role and focus in supporting the president and University will center on strategic planning, rigorous data analytics, and prudent forecasting,” Welch stated. “By leveraging these tools, we can drive informed decision-making, foster institutional consensus, and craft a sustainable, student-centered vision for the University’s growth and long-term success.”

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.