Gardner-Webb’s 2023 Fall Enrollment Sees Increase in New Traditional Undergraduate Students

525 Freshmen and Transfers from 26 States and 12 Countries Now Make GWU Home

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—For the 2023 Fall Semester, Gardner-Webb University administrators, faculty and staff welcomed 525 new traditional undergraduate students to campus—an increase over last year’s incoming cohort. This number incorporates first-time freshmen as well as transfer students from all corners of North Carolina, from across the country (26 states) and indeed from around the globe (12 countries).   

“We are excited to welcome these new students to Gardner-Webb,” affirmed Vice President for Enrollment Management Dean Clark. “Welcoming students to the new school year and watching their GWU story begin is always an exciting time.”    

Clark noted that when asked why they chose to attend Gardner-Webb, the most common response from these new Runnin’ Bulldogs is “feeling at home on the campus.” They also mentioned that everyone they met welcomed them and provided a smooth transition from high school to college.  

Clark added his appreciation for all GWU employees who help to create this environment for new students and their families. “We are excited to see how much these students grow over the next four years and look forward to cheering them on as they walk across the stage,” he asserted.  

“The recruitment of new undergraduate students is probably more competitive today than at any other time in the history of American higher education,” observed GWU President Dr. William Downs. “For Gardner-Webb to secure such a large and strong pool of new students speaks volumes about the reputation and value of a GWU degree, and it also speaks to the skill and dedication of our Admissions team that worked so hard for so many months to make college a reality for our newest Runnin’ Bulldogs.”  

Classes for the Fall Semester began on Aug. 16. New students will continue learning about campus life throughout the semester in their University Life (UNIV 111) courses, which are designed to promote personal and academic development.

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.