Gardner-Webb University has begun the process of selecting its 14th President. Following the departure of Dr. William M. Downs in February 2025, the University is committed to a transparent and thoughtful search process guided by faith, shared values, and community input.
The Presidential Search Committee—comprised of faculty, staff, students, trustees, alumni and community members—will lead the process in partnership with Myers McRae, a nationally recognized executive search firm with extensive experience in higher education leadership.
Listening sessions for the GWU community will be held on campus in May 2025. More information about these sessions will be shared here as it becomes available.
An executive search firm specializing in higher education leadership, Myers McRae brings decades of experience and a nationwide network of over 150,000 qualified prospects. The firm will collaborate closely with the committee to ensure a thorough, inclusive, and mission-aligned search process.
The Gardner-Webb University community is invited to attend an Open Listening Session as part of the ongoing Presidential Search process. Hosted by Board of Trustees Chairman Rev. Dr. Lamont Littlejohn, this session provides an opportunity for all voices—students, faculty, staff, alumni, and friends of the University—to share their thoughts on what qualities and priorities our next President should embody.
We value your perspective and hope you’ll join us for this important conversation about the future of Gardner-Webb.
We invite all members of the Gardner-Webb community to stay engaged throughout the search process. Additional details on listening sessions, progress updates, and opportunities for feedback will be shared here regularly.
If you have questions or comments on GWU’s presidential search process, please email us at [email protected].
We are committed to pursuing a transparent, inclusive process.
