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

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    Gardner-Webb’s Searight PACE Program Expands Professional Development Opportunities for 2026-27

    From Social Media Management to Customized Corporate Training, New Programs Support Career Advancement and Organizational Success BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Gardner-Webb University’s Searight Professional and Continuing Education (PACE) program is expanding its portfolio of workforce development, professional education and lifelong learning opportunities with several new programs launching during the 2026-27 academic year. The new offerings are designed […]

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    Examining U2’s Theology: Gardner-Webb Professor Explores the Band’s Search for Faith, Hope and Meaning

    Dr. Steve Harmon’s New book, ‘U2’s Theological Imagination’ and a Limited Podcast Series, ‘Hearing Hope’ Trace Spiritual Questions Woven Throughout the Music of U2 BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—What if theology isn’t confined to a classroom, a seminary or a Sunday sermon? What if it can be found in a rock song, a concert arena or the […]

    U2 book cover and Steve Harmon
  • News Article

    Gardner-Webb Alumnus Logan Simpson Named Director of the Bulldog Club

    Experienced Coach and Fundraiser to Lead Athletic Fundraising Efforts BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Gardner-Webb Vice President for Advancement Jeff Cogburn has named Logan Simpson director of the Bulldog Club. A GWU alumnus and accomplished coach, Simpson returns to his alma mater with fundraising experience and a passion for enhancing the student-athlete experience. Simpson joins the Gardner-Webb Advancement […]

    Enthusiastic Crowd at Football Game -Bulldog club director DSC