Gardner-Webb Homecoming on Oct. 17-19 Marks 120 Years of Runnin’ Strong

Reconnecting, Honoring Traditions, and Celebrating the GWU Bulldog Spirit

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—This year’s Homecoming, Oct. 17-19, is more than a reunion—it’s a milestone. Gardner-Webb University celebrates 120 years of shaping lives, building community and “Runnin’ Strong.” From its humble beginnings as a high school in 1905, to becoming a junior college in 1942, a four-year college in 1971-72, and a university in 1993, Gardner-Webb has grown through generations of dreamers, doers, and believers. In every chapter, one thing has remained constant: This is a place where faith is nurtured, friendships are forged, and futures are inspired.

Homecoming is a time for alumni to reminisce and reconnect with classmates, and an experience for current students that will build enduring memories for the future.

Signature events of the weekend include fan favorites like the Athletics Hall of Fame Gala, Homecoming Parade and Dawg Walk, Bo’s Battle ’QUE BBQ Competition, a festive tailgate lunch, the big game, and concert by Cassette Rewind.

Alumni are invited to reconnect with the heart of Gardner-Webb at Homecoming. The College of Health Sciences, Godbold College of Business, College of Education, College of Arts and Sciences, and the School of Divinity will each have tables in the tailgate area. Stop by to learn more about programs, meet faculty and staff, and enjoy fun giveaways and interactive activities. It’s a great way to celebrate Bulldog pride, discover what’s new across campus, reminisce and engage with the academic community.

As a special feature, the U.S. Army Golden Knights will perform at 1 p.m. before the Homecoming Game.

Since their inception in 1959, the Golden Knights have performed more than 21,000 shows in all 50 states and 48 countries through spectacular live parachute demonstrations, reaching an average of 60,000 people per show and a third of the nation annually. They earned the “Golden Knights” moniker because of the number of gold medals they have won in international competition and their dominance of the skies.

This elite parachute team will descend into Spangler Stadium with the game ball in hand, setting the stage for kickoff at 1:30, when the Runnin’ Bulldogs take on UT Martin.

Homecoming Schedule

With the historic 120th year as the backdrop, Gardner-Webb invites alumni, students, families, and friends to take part in a weekend filled with tradition, celebration, and unforgettable moments. A map is available here.

Here’s everything you need to know about the weekend and how to register:

Friday, Oct. 17

• Homecoming Spirit GWU Day. Wear red, black and white to show your spirit and support.
• 8:30 a.m., Baseball Alumni & Friends – Golf Outing, Riverbend YMCA Golf Course. $500 for a team; $125 for an individual; $100 for hole sponsor. Register here.
• 6:30 p.m., Athletics Hall of Fame Gala, Tucker Student Center. Tickets are $35 per person, $65 per couple, and $250 for table of eight. Register here.
• 7 p.m., TUG Students only bonfire, Tucker Student Center

Saturday, Oct. 18

• 11 a.m., Bo’s Battle ‘QUE BBQ Competition, Practice Soccer Field (across from Spangler Stadium). Learn more about the competition rules here. Competition fee: $250. Register here.
• 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Bulldog Tailgate Meal for Alumni & Friends, Practice Soccer Field (across from Spangler Stadium). Tickets are $20 for individuals; $10 for children 10 and younger; People’s Choice Only: Sample and vote for your favorite BBQ: $5. Register here.
• 11 a.m. to noon, Dawg Walk. Meet at the back patio of Tucker Student Center (lake level) to cheer on the Bulldogs as they walk to the stadium.
• Noon, Homecoming Parade. The route begins on Stadium Drive and continues throughout and around the perimeter of campus.
• 1:30 p.m., Spangler Stadium, Gardner-Webb University Football vs. UT Martin. Tickets available here.
• 6 p.m., Homecoming Concert featuring Cassette Rewind, The Brinkley Amphitheater. Admission is $10 without a football ticket.

Sunday, Oct. 19

• 10 a.m., Worship at the Webb, Dover Memorial Chapel.

Auxiliary aids will be made available to persons with disabilities upon request 10 working days prior to the event.  Please call 704-406-4270 or email [email protected] with your request.

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.