Gardner-Webb’s Annual Community Memorial Day Observance Scheduled for May 22

Lt. Col. Michael A. Cooper, ROTC Leader is the Featured Speaker for the Service at 9 a.m.

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Each year, Gardner-Webb University joins communities across the nation in pausing for a Memorial Day observance to honor the lives of those who have died in military service to their country. First recognized nationally in 1868, Memorial Day serves as a solemn reminder of those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to freedom and the safety of others.

Gardner-Webb’s observance for the campus and surrounding community will be held at 9 a.m. on May 22 in front of Hamrick Hall. The featured speaker is Lt. Col. Michael A. Cooper, professor of military science, Wofford College Army ROTC.

The program will include a series of reflections, readings, and musical elements led by Gardner-Webb faculty and staff. President Nate Evans will open the ceremony with a welcome and invocation, followed by the national anthem performed by Associate Professor and Chair of the Department of Music Dr. Aaron Rice. Adjunct Instructor and retired U.S. Air Force Colonel Dr. Jim Rennie will lead a responsive reading of Psalm 93.

Evans will introduce Cooper, whose career reflects a deep commitment to leadership, service, and education. Cooper joined Wofford’s staff as professor of military science in August 2025, where he educates and instructs Army ROTC cadets enrolled in the military science and leadership curriculum at Wofford, the University of South Carolina Upstate, Gardner-Webb, and Converse University.

In addition to preparing senior ROTC cadets to commission as officers of character for the Total Army, Cooper partners with local high schools to support Junior ROTC programs that develop citizens committed to lifelong service.

A veteran of more than 20 years of military service, Cooper has completed multiple overseas tours and received numerous awards and decorations, including the Bronze Star and the Meritorious Service Medal with three oak leaf clusters.

Following Cooper’s remarks, the observance will move into a solemn moment, the Remembrance of the Fallen. Vice President for Student Development and Dean of Students Lesley Villarose will lead the tribute. As silence is observed, she will ring the bell 21 times, which is the highest military honor for those who died defending freedom and democracy. Associate Vice President of Marketing Wilson Brooks will then play “Taps.”

The program will conclude with closing remarks from Evans, followed by a benediction given by Jaquan Lynch, associate minister for Athletic Ministries.

Auxiliary aids will be made available to persons with disabilities upon request 10 working days prior to the event.  Please call 704-406-4270 or email [email protected] with your request.

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.