Catawba Valley Community College Partners with Gardner-Webb to Offer Co-Admission Agreement

‘Bulldog Bound’ Creates a Seamless Transition for Catawba Students Transferring to GWU

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Gardner-Webb University and Catawba Valley Community College (CVCC) officials signed agreements on April 18 that simplify the transfer process between the schools. The “Bulldog Bound” direct-entry admission program will provide a seamless transition for CVCC students entering Gardner-Webb.

“Each day that we do something to make a four-year degree more accessible to the people of our region is a great day, and today’s new collaboration with CVCC is a big win for families across western North Carolina,” emphasized Gardner-Webb President Dr. William M. Downs. “For 65 years, CVCC has been educating students and contributing to workforce development; now, thanks to this agreement, CVCC graduates can easily continue their learning at GWU and further enhance their career prospects.”  

“Bulldog Bound” allows CVCC students to transfer directly to GWU after completing degrees in the following areas: Associate of Arts (AA), Associate of Science (AS), Associate of Arts in Teacher Preparation (AATP), Associate of Science in Teacher Preparation (ASTP), Associate of Fine Arts in Visual or Theater Arts (AFA), Associate Degree in Nursing, or Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree through an institutional or state-wide articulation agreement.

“The ‘Bulldog Bound’ co-admissions agreement between Gardner-Webb University and Catawba Valley Community College is a prime example of higher educational institutions working together to build a more accessible future for all students,” said Dr. Garrett Hinshaw, President of Catawba Valley Community College. “‘Bulldog Bound’ will help our students achieve academic success and personal growth as they transition to the next stage of the college journey. I am excited for the future possibilities this partnership will bring to both institutions.”

Students in the “Bulldog Bound” program have access to information portals for GWU academics, as well as to faculty and staff, who will facilitate their transition to Gardner-Webb. The program prioritizes the ability of qualified participants to receive admission, financial aid, registration and orientation communications early in the transition process, which sets CVCC students up for success at both institutions. 

While enrolled at CVCC, students will identify their interest in “Bulldog Bound” by completing a brief, online form provided by the CVCC Transfer Counselor. There is no program participation fee. Students who discontinue their participation will be expected to transition to GWU through regular admission channels. Students who enroll at another college or university after their Catawba enrollment also will be expected to transition to GWU through regular admission channels.

About Catawba Valley Community College:

Catawba Valley Community College empowers students to transform the communities of our region, and our state, by providing exceptional learning experiences, premier workforce development, and engaging personal enrichment. With over 50 programs of study across four academic schools, CVCC provides higher education access and opportunities to anyone seeking the “next step” in their life journey. Serving both the Catawba and Alexander counties of North Carolina, CVCC is committed to the future of our service area, region, and state. Learn how you can SOAR at cvcc.edu.

About Gardner-Webb:

Gardner-Webb University is North Carolina’s recognized leader in private, Christian higher education. A Carnegie-Classified Doctoral/Professional University, GWU is home to six professional schools, 14 academic departments, 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.