Nate Evans
Nate Evans is Gardner-Webb University’s 14th President and he began his term on November 11, 2025.
President Nate Evans leads Gardner-Webb with a steady commitment to faith, purpose, and people. His vision is shaped by humility and a deep belief that Gardner-Webb is more than a university. It is a community where calling is discovered, where faith and intellect work together, and where service defines who we are.
Rooted in the reminder from James 2:17 that faith must be lived out through action, President Evans calls the Gardner-Webb family to move forward with courage, unity, and shared responsibility. His leadership centers on strengthening the University’s foundation, caring for the faculty and staff who shape our mission each day, elevating the student experience, and living out our Christ-centered identity with boldness.
At the heart of his presidency is One Webb—a culture that recognizes that every person, team, and partnership contributes to a purpose larger than any one role. When Gardner-Webb thrives, our students, our region, and our broader community thrive. When we serve and support one another, we embody the best of who we are.
This page offers a window into his leadership: his biography, recent remarks, news coverage, upcoming events, staff contacts, and opportunities to connect. It reflects a president grounded in faith, guided by mission, and committed to leading Gardner-Webb forward as One Webb.
Nate Evans has been a dedicated member of the Gardner-Webb University (GWU) community since October 2020. Under his leadership, the Advancement Office has significantly expanded giving, raising more than $30 million in gifts and commitments. His efforts have contributed to campus enhancements, including new construction projects, renovations, lab equipment acquisitions, and increased scholarship funding. Evans is a firm believer in collaboration and has forged transformative partnerships with alumni, donors, campus partners, and community stakeholders, reinforcing the university’s mission and vision.
With 13 years of experience in higher education, Evans has steadily assumed increasing responsibilities in the field. He began his career as an admissions counselor for East Carolina University (ECU) Undergraduate Admissions before transitioning to university advancement. As a major gifts officer for the ECU Honors College, he worked diligently to engage alumni in North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, Texas, and Colorado.
Before his career in higher education, Evans served as an officer in the U.S. Air Force and also gained experience in the small business sector. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Exercise and Sports Science with a minor in Biology from East Carolina University and a Master of Science in Human Resource Management from Western Carolina University in Cullowhee, N.C.
Evans is married to Dr. Brittany Evans, a proud Gardner-Webb alumna and visiting instructor in the College of Education. Together, they enjoy supporting GWU students at university events, spending time outdoors, motorcycle riding, and gathering with friends. Active in his community, Evans has served in a motorcycle ministry and has also been a middle school wrestling head coach.
Upon his appointment, Evans expressed his deep gratitude, stating, “I am honored and humbled for this responsibility. I am grateful to those who have led Gardner-Webb so well. I pledge to uphold our Christian values and build upon our University’s momentum and success.”
Runnin’ the Webb is a conversation series hosted by President Nate Evans that spotlights the people who keep Gardner-Webb moving forward. In each episode, he sits down with students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community partners to share real stories about the work, passion, and purpose behind the Webb.
From campus life to mission-centered leadership, these conversations offer an authentic look at what makes our community runnin strong. Tune in and meet the individuals who bring Gardner-Webb to life every day.
[email protected]
(704) 406-4236
(704) 406-2707
President Nate Evans welcomes invitations to engage with campus partners, community organizations, and regional leaders whose work aligns with Gardner-Webb’s mission. All requests will be reviewed, and at least 30 days’ notice is preferred. Submitting the form does not guarantee availability, but the Office of the President will follow up with a confirmation once a decision is made.
For all interview or comment requests involving President Nate Evans, please contact Noel T. Manning II, associate vice president for University Relations, at [email protected] or 704-406-4631. Media visits to campus must be coordinated in advance through University Communications. Please share the purpose of your request, anticipated date and time, and the names of all crew members so our team can assist you.
