parents day

Parents or Guardians of Students

Building Up Runnin’ Bulldogs Together

We’re all family here.

Welcome, parents and families! Whether you’re new to the Gardner-Webb community or a proud parent of a returning student, we are honored to include you in the greater Gardner-Webb Family.

You have an incredibly important role to play during your student’s time at Gardner-Webb — you are their greatest supporter and advocate. 

Our website is built to serve you as a resource and to communicate with you during your student’s time on campus. Students often lean on their parents and families to help them navigate their college experience. Hopefully you will find the tools and information you need here to guide them on this journey. You are just as important to us as your student; if you can’t find an answer to something, don’t hesitate to submit your question via our “Ask a Question” link. Together, we can train up another generation of productive, faithful, and enthusiastic Runnin’ Bulldogs.

Plan a Visit

Now that you’re part of the Runnin’ Bulldog family, pay us a visit! There’s always something exciting going on, whether it’s a campus-wide event, or just a special weekend with your student. 

Financial Planning

For any family of a college student, financing an education can be intimidating. We hope that our friendly and efficient Financial Planning department can help remove some of the stress for you by offering responsible and straightforward options that comply with all federal, state, and University policies. We take pride in our team and the important work they do, offering financial assistance to many students who might otherwise be unable to attend Gardner-Webb University.

Find your Admissions Counselor

Throughout your student’s journey as a Runnin’ Bulldog, you will undoubtedly have many questions. Our Admissions Counselors are here to ease your mind, help you find the information you need, and give you confidence in the amazing experience your student will have as part of the Gardner-Webb family. 

Hear from Other Parents

As a community of students and families, Gardner-Webb is all about creating a network of support  for the good of each student. In our Calling Home newsletter, you’ll learn what’s going on, hear some of the amazing experiences students are having, and feel better connected each month to your student’s home-away-from-home.

“I am so thankful that God orders the steps for my children and that Gardner-Webb is a part of His plan for my daughter. As she continues her junior year, I am confident that she will continue to benefit even more from her experience there as a student. ”

Sherra Still

Special Events

Every year, there are certain special moments in the academic calendar that are particularly important to parents and family members. Here are some highlights to put on your calendar!

New Student Orientation – your introduction to college life and the resources your student can access to thrive and grow while at Gardner-Webb

Family Weekend – two full days designed to showcase the educational, cultural, and social life your student is enjoying, while giving you time to reconnect and make memories

Homecoming – a tradition rooted in the return to a place of memories and a rekindling of relationships, all while cheering on the Runnin’ Bulldogs football team and honoring successful alumni

Commencement – the culmination of your student’s hard work and many accomplishments while at Gardner-Webb and a celebration of their bright future

Housing & Residence Education

From housing assignment and meal plans to resolving roommate conflict, our team is here to serve you and your student. Likewise, our University Police team is always available to assist with parking, general safety questions, and any emergency situations.

Christian Life & Service

Whether you’re helping your student find a Bible study to join, seeking information on missions trips and service opportunities, or looking into any of the many other opportunities for spiritual growth on our campus, we believe Christ should be part of everything we do at Gardner-Webb. From intramural sports to campus groups, campus life at Gardner-Webb is vibrant and fulfilling.

Personal & Professional Development

Our Center for Personal & Professional Development offers a full experience to ensure your student is ready for their career, including numerous workshops, tools, and resources. When their time on-campus ends,  life as a Runnin’ Bulldogs alum begins, and we want them to make the most of it!

Recent News

  • News Article

    Gardner-Webb Awards Degrees in Spring Commencement Ceremony on May 2

    More than 500 Graduates Honored for Achievements BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Gardner-Webb celebrated the achievements of over 500 students at the University’s Spring Commencement Ceremony on May 2 in Spangler Stadium. The event honored students in the traditional undergraduate, online, and graduate programs of study. The featured speaker was Gardner-Webb alumna and Superintendent of Charlotte-Mecklenburg (N.C.) Schools, […]

    graduates celebrate after the ceremony
  • News Article

    2024 Spring Commencement Ceremony Especially Meaningful for Dr. Sophia Steibel

    New Professor Emerita, Brazilian Native was Introduced to Gardner-Webb’s Campus 50 Years Ago BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—As the procession of Gardner-Webb students and faculty march into Spangler Stadium on Thursday, May 2, the moment will be savored by everyone. For one professor, Dr. Sophia Steibel, the 2024 Commencement Ceremony will mark three significant milestones. Steibel is […]

  • News Article

    Gardner-Webb Honors Experience, July 14-19, Introduces Qualified High School Students to College Life

    Participants Automatically Invited to Compete for Full-Tuition Scholarship BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—The Honors Experience at Gardner-Webb University this summer invites students to explore an array of topics through innovative learning techniques. Offered July 14-19, the program gives high-achieving high school students an opportunity to experience all aspects of life on the GWU campus from attending classes […]

Recent Articles

All Articles