Ignite Scholar Elijah Lewis Builds Community at Gardner-Webb

Campus Connections Empower Sophomore to Grow Spiritually, Academically, and Professionally

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Ignite Scholar Elijah Lewis, of Graham, N.C., first heard about Gardner-Webb University from his friend A.J. Hogan. When Lewis visited campus, he also experienced the vibrant and close-knit community his friend had described.

“I believe God pointed me in this direction due to the personal connections, the amazing first impressions I had during my visits, and the inviting atmosphere of the community that he showed to me,” Lewis explained. “I also saw the career and financial opportunities Gardner-Webb could provide, and I knew this was where I was meant to be. I want to thank my parents for always supporting me from day one.”

Winning the Ignite Scholarship was further confirmation. “It meant everything to me,” Lewis shared. “Receiving this recognition was a huge confidence booster. I can’t imagine myself anywhere else. Without a scholarship, I wasn’t sure what I’d be able to do in life, but Gardner-Webb’s generosity made my path clear.” 

His first year at Gardner-Webb, he focused on building his spiritual and academic foundations and also connecting with people on campus. Lewis joined a Bible study group led by Hogan. It has become his greatest source of support. “That community has given me peace and encouragement to handle challenges, whether it’s tough times in life or the pressure of academics,” Lewis observed.

A computer science major with a minor in mathematics, Lewis is naturally curious. “Ever since I was a very young kid, I’d take apart devices like my iPod or explore every menu in a program just to see what was possible,” Lewis reflected. “Computer Science gives me a way to turn that curiosity into a career, and I hope to use that passion in a way that honors God.”

His professors, Dr. Mirek Mystkowski and Oscar Gonzales, are preparing him for success in the programming field. “They’ve consistently gone above and beyond by offering after-class opportunities, providing guidance, and even helping me make important career connections,” Lewis noted.

As a way to apply what he’s learning in class, sharpen his skills, and provide additional practical experience for his resume, Lewis is preparing for a programming contest. He’s been working with Mystkowski and a couple of other students for the event held at the 39th Annual Consortium for Computing Sciences in Colleges (CCSC) Southeastern Region meeting.

“It’s been fun and academically rewarding to get to know and work with the professor and the other two guys in an environment other than class,” Lewis acknowledged. “The actual competition will be a nice learning experience, because it’s something I’ve never done before.”

Lewis also went to the Career Fair sponsored by the Gardner-Webb Center for Personal and Professional Development. As part of his Business Communication and Administration Class, he prepared beforehand by writing a resume, creating a LinkedIn profile, and practicing his pitch with classmates. At the event, he met and talked with some potential employers. “Gardner-Webb has given me great resources and mentors who have taught me the skills I need to pursue a vocation,” he observed. “Overall, it’s given me a strong foundation that I know I can build a future on.”

About the Ignite Scholarship

Ignite Excellence is Gardner-Webb University’s most competitive academic scholarship. Each recipient receives a full-tuition scholarship that covers the cost of tuition for eight semesters. Recipients are selected through an on-campus interview process. They must maintain a cumulative institutional grade point average of 3.5, reside on campus, and continue to demonstrate a strong leadership ability and commitment to service. Learn more here.

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 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. Learn more at gardner-webb.edu.