news-category: Academics GWU Honors Program Gives Student Opportunities to Enhance Educational Experience By Office of University Communications On May 7, 2020 Joy Smith, ’20, Studies Wildlife Photography for her Thesis After graduating from Gardner-Webb University in May, Joy Smith, ’20, of Casar, N.C., will continue taking photos of people. However, in the future, she would like to become a wildlife photographer. Her interest in the well-being of animals led her to choose the topic for her Honors thesis, “The Positive and Negative Effects of Photography on Wildlife.” Because of the Coronavirus pandemic, Smith and others presented their research during a Zoom teleconference. Q: Why did you choose your research topic? Smith: As a photographer and a lover of wildlife, I began to get curious and wondered if photography was ever harmful to animals. During my research, I learned that while there are many positives, wildlife can be negatively affected if the animal’s best interests aren’t met. It pains me to see animals mistreated, and it was a real eye opener to realize that sometimes people who think they are helping animals by photographing them and raising awareness for them are actually hurting them without realizing it. Q: What valuable lessons did you learn from doing your research? Smith: I learned a lot of useful information that is going to greatly benefit me as I continue on in my career. I learned to manage my time appropriately. There is so much to be done when completing a thesis; it is important to not let deadlines sneak up on you. I also learned to ask for help if you need it. Your advisor is there to help you, and they are happy to answer questions or assist you when you hit a roadblock. Q: How has GWU Honors Program enhanced your GWU experience? Smith: The GWU Honors Program has meant everything to me. I have been extremely involved since my freshman year. I have been on the Honors Executive Committee the past three years, serving as the Special Events Co-Chair my sophomore year and the Publicist my junior and senior years. I have traveled to multiple places, presented research at National Honors Conferences, met so many wonderful friends, and gotten the best education. I can’t imagine what my time at GWU would have been like if I hadn’t been involved in Honors. I am so thankful to have attended a school with such a wonderful Honors Program! I have been given unbelievable opportunities during my four years at GWU. I am so thankful to Dr. Tom Jones for everything he has done for me.
News Article Gardner-Webb University Launches Summer Searight Scholars Program for High School Students Three-Day Academic and Career-Focused Experience Set for June 2-4 BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Gardner-Webb University is introducing a new summer program designed to help high school students build a strong foundation for academic and career success. The Summer Searight Scholars Program (SSP), a three-day learning experience, will be held June 2-4 on the GWU campus. The program […] Office of University Communications | April 9, 2026
News Article Gardner-Webb Students Demonstrate Academic Excellence at Life-of-the-Scholar Multidisciplinary Conference Annual Conference Showcased Outstanding Research Across Multiple Fields BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Gardner‑Webb University students brought curiosity, creativity, and months of hard work to the spotlight during the annual Life‑of‑the‑Scholar Multidisciplinary Conference (LOTS-MC). With research spanning everything from freshwater snails to historical propaganda, the event showcased the depth and diversity of student scholarship that has defined LOTS‑MC […] Office of University Communications | April 9, 2026
News Article Gardner-Webb University Celebrates Philanthropy Week April 13–16 Campus Events Highlight the Impact of Donors on the Student Experience BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Through fun activities, storytelling, and visible reminders placed across campus, Gardner-Webb University will celebrate Philanthropy Week on April 13–16. The observance is designed to help students understand how philanthropy—the voluntary giving of time, talent, or financial resources to others—impacts their time at […] Office of University Communications | April 4, 2026