Gardner-Webb Welcomes 560 New Students for 2024 Fall Semester

Orientation Events Prepare Students for Campus Life 

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Gardner-Webb University’s new student enrollment continues its upward climb for the 2024 Fall Semester. Administrators, faculty and staff are set to welcome 560 first-time freshmen and transfer students, a 6.6 percent increase over last year’s incoming cohort. The newest Runnin’ Bulldogs are from all corners of North Carolina, 33 states and Puerto Rico, and 18 countries around the globe.

“We are excited to welcome these new students to Gardner-Webb,” affirmed Vice President for Enrollment Management Dean Clark. “Watching their GWU story begin is always an exciting time. We are eager to see how much these students grow during their time here and look forward to cheering them on as they walk across the stage at commencement.”   

Clark added his appreciation for everyone who helps to create a welcoming environment for new students and their families at the beginning of the semester and throughout the year. Faculty, staff and returning students contribute by assisting with tours, sharing a friendly greeting, or helping students carry belongings into their residence halls.

Gardner-Webb President Dr. William Downs underscored how impressive this year’s student recruitment efforts have been: “The higher education landscape across the nation has become incredibly competitive, so to be welcoming more new undergraduates this year on Move-In Day than we did in 2023 is a major accomplishment. The quality of our academic degree programs, combined with GWU’s reputation as a university dedicated to student success, makes our university a destination of first choice. We are truly delighted to welcome all of these new Runnin’ Bulldogs!”

New students move in on Aug. 17, and they will participate in orientation activities until Aug. 20. These events build relationships, provide a basic introduction to college life, and introduce students to campus resources. Highlights of the orientation schedule include an ice cream social with President Dr. William M. Downs and his wife, Kim Downs; worship at the Brinkley Amphitheater; and a new student celebration with music, entertainment, games and food.

Returning undergraduate and graduate students move in on Aug. 19, and classes begin on Aug. 21. The Opening Convocation on Aug. 22 at 9:25 a.m. in Lutz-Yelton Convocation Center celebrates the formal launch of the academic year. Faculty will wear academic regalia, the incoming freshmen class will receive acknowledgement, and student achievements will be recognized. Gardner-Webb President Dr. William M. Downs will offer a welcome and student charge, and the featured speaker is Assistant Professor of Physics Dr. Wilson Hawkins, the recipient of the 2024 President’s Early Career Award.

Gardner-Webb University is North Carolina’s recognized leader in private, Christian higher education. A Carnegie-Classified Doctoral/Professional University, GWU is home to nine colleges and schools, more than 80 undergraduate and graduate majors, and a world-class faculty. Located on a beautiful 225-acre campus in Boiling Springs, N.C., Gardner-Webb prepares graduates to impact their chosen professions, equips them with the skills to advance the frontiers of knowledge, and inspires them to make a positive and lasting difference in the lives of others. Ignite your future at Gardner-Webb.edu.