Gardner-Webb’s Double Dawg Day Helps Fund Scholarships for Student to Pursue Goal to Teach

Josie Hinson,’23, Transferred to GWU, Because of Close-Knit Community

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—The scholarships that Josie Hinson, of Norwood, N.C., received to transfer to Gardner-Webb make it possible for her to attend the University where she feels at home. Besides making new friends, Hinson has access to an accomplished faculty who genuinely care about her academic success.

“I love feeling like a student and not like a number,” stated Hinson, an English education major. “These scholarships allow me to not only be surrounded by such excellent instructors, but I receive a well-rounded Christian education. These scholarships have granted me the opportunity to create long-lasting friendships and further my education to pursue my dream and passion to teach.”  

Her financial aid comes from the GWU Annual Fund, which is supported each year by contributions made on Double Dawg Day. This annual day of giving on April 7 gives GWU alumni and friends an opportunity to participate in matching opportunities that could double the impact.

Hinson receives the Transfer Achievement Scholarship, Gardner-Webb Affordability Scholarship and the Transfer Housing Grant. Since she is from a large family, the financial aid eases the burden on her parents. Hinson also works on campus in the student call center with the Dialing Dawgs. The students connect with alumni and University donors, share campus updates, and solicit donations for continued support. They also help with activities on Double Dawg Day.

“I love chatting with alumni about their past experiences,” Hinson stated. “I have learned so much about the school, and I cherish the good conversations I have had with alumni and friends of the University. Double Dawg Day last year was a lot of fun. I enjoyed handing out T-shirts to students and raising awareness about our big day of giving.”

When she graduates with her degree in 2023, Hinson feels that she will be ready to begin her teaching career. “I have always had a passion to teach,” she related. “Helping others is very important to me and I want to make a difference in someone’s life. I believe the best place to do this is in the classroom. I am learning so many skills that will apply to my teaching career. For example, in my Teaching of Writing class for this semester, we have learned how to teach for a variety of learners, and I have discovered how important it is to differentiate. If one method doesn’t work for a student, try something else that caters better to their learning style.”

Alumni, students, parents, friends, faculty and staff can unite with their fellow Bulldogs and choose to donate to the Annual Fund, which supports scholarships for students like Hinson or donate to other programs and causes on the GWU campus, including:

• University Priority Fund, which supports the greatest needs of the University.     
• School/College Priority Fund, which provides the dean with the ability to respond quickly to emerging opportunities, transform the student experience, and strengthen operational capacity.
• The University’s 22 athletic sports teams.

Join the fun as special recognitions and challenges are made throughout the day. Be the first to make a donation at 12:01 a.m., or support your favorite Runnin’ Bulldog team to win a challenge.

Matching donations are made possible thanks to the generosity of other donors. In addition to giving, individuals are also invited to serve as Social Media Ambassadors by sharing their love for Gardner-Webb on social media. By using #DoubleDawgDay, individuals can show their support and promote the day of giving on April 7.

For more information about #DoubleDawgDay, visit the FAQ page.

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.