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. 

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

    Women’s History Month Series Features Gardner-Webb Campus Leaders

    Interim Vice President of Advancement Karen Bruce Reflects on Opportunity, Calling, and Stewardship BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Women’s History Month honors the mothers, mentors, and history‑makers who shaped lives and opened doors for generations. At Gardner‑Webb University, that legacy continues through the women who lead across campus, including five members of the GWU president’s cabinet. Throughout the […]

    Women in Leadership, Karen Bruce, Thea Thompson, Nicole Waters, Lauren Gullett and Lesley Villarose
  • News Article

    From Gardner-Webb to Bloomberg: Student Lands Competitive Tech Internship

    Guidance from Searight PACE Leadership Program Helped Issa Cogdell Access National Networks and Career Pathways BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—When Issa Cogdell arrived at Gardner-Webb University in 2023, he discovered a community ready to champion his goals. Friends, professors, staff members, and mentors encouraged him to grow personally and professionally. Drawing on the technical, communication, and problem‑solving […]

    Issa Cogdell
  • News Article

    Hart and Soul: Gardner-Webb’s Andrea Hartman Beat Cancer, Earned Starting Spot

    With Support from Family, Coaches and Teammates, Lacrosse Defender Fought Her Way Onto the Field Written By Beth Ann Mayer Courtesy of USA Lacrosse Magazine No one likes to learn they need a filling during a routine dentist appointment. But it’s not out-of-the-ordinary news. Less than two months before leaving California for her freshman year […]

    Andrea Hartman DSC

Recent Articles

All Articles