news-category: Campus News Hootsuite, the Leading Social Media Marketing Platform, and Gardner-Webb to Host Second Annual Higher Ed Social Media Summit By Office of University Communications On March 25, 2025 Free Event on June 5-6 Targets Social Media Professionals Who Work in Higher Education BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.— Hootsuite, the industry-leading social media marketing platform for enterprise organizations, and Gardner-Webb University are hosting the Second Annual Higher Ed Social Media Summit on June 5-6 in Tucker Student Center. This one-of-a-kind event is created especially for social media professionals who work in higher education. Through interactive, peer-led sessions and thought-provoking discussions, participants will discuss challenges, strategies and ideas, as well as network with industry leaders and peers. Nicole Foster Nicole Foster, senior account executive with Hootsuite, noted why Gardner-Webb was the clear choice to host this year’s summit. “Since our partnership began in 2017, the University has consistently demonstrated leadership, innovation, and strategic excellence in social media management, making it a model for other institutions,” she said. “Gardner-Webb is a true Hootsuite Social Campus—your team has taken a structured, strategic approach to social media, ensuring best practices are embedded across the institution.” Gardner-Webb Vice President for Marketing Richard McDevitt noted his team’s excitement to host the national event. “We’re thrilled to have Hootsuite on our campus,” he said. “As a recognized national leader in social media management and strategy, they’re excellent partners for Gardner-Webb. We’ve been committed to expanding our communications footprint for some time now, and well-aligned and strategic social content across all our platforms remains a priority. We have an excellent story to tell at GWU and we need to tell that story everywhere we can.” Foster commended McDevitt’s leadership as well as guidance from Thea Thompson, assistant vice president for Web & Digital Communications. “Out of 2,000+ higher education customers, Gardner-Webb was chosen because of its exemplary social media leadership and strategic execution,” Foster said. “Hosting this summit not only highlights Gardner-Webb’s expertise but also expands its visibility, as we will be promoting the event to millions of Hootsuite customers and partners globally.” Last year’s Summit, held at Grand Canyon University in Phoenix, Ariz., was a tremendous success. Feedback from past attendees was overwhelmingly positive, with 97.5% gaining actionable insights and 95% rating the event 4 or 5 out of 5. Attendance to the event is free; attendees pay for their own travel and lodging. Registration and more details are available here. About Hootsuite Hootsuite pioneered social media management in 2008, and has since evolved into the category leader for social media marketing and social intelligence. Powered by AI and the largest set of realtime social media data, Hootsuite lets users schedule, post, and track performance across all of their social media networks from one powerful dashboard. Hootsuite, which recently acquired social listening platform Talkwalker, helps organizations unlock the value of their social media relationships by turning social insights into clear action and measurable business impact. 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. Ignite your future at Gardner-Webb.edu.
News Article Memories, Friendships and a Spirit of Service Draw Alumni Back to Gardner-Webb for Special Reunion Class of 1981 Marks 45th Reunion by Welcoming Alumni from Six Gardner-Webb Classes BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—When members of Gardner-Webb University’s Class of 1981 return to campus for a homecoming reunion in November, they will reconnect with longtime friends to celebrate the 45th anniversary of their graduation. The event began as a conversation between 1981 classmates […] Office of University Communications | September 23, 2026
News Article Gardner-Webb Welcomes Alumni Home for Homecoming 2026 Annual Celebration Features Class Reunions, Traditions, Athletics, and Opportunities to Reconnect BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—“There’s just something special about coming home to Gardner-Webb,” said Shannon Hovis, director of alumni and parent relations. “So many memories, so many friendships, and always a place to call home.” That sense of connection is at the heart of Gardner-Webb University’s […] Office of University Communications | September 23, 2026
News Article Gardner-Webb University Awards Promotions and Tenure to Faculty Members Distinctions Recognize Professional Achievement, Leadership, and Lasting Impact on Students BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Gardner-Webb University officials have announced faculty promotions and tenure appointments for the 2026-27 academic year. These distinctions recognize excellence in teaching, scholarship, service, and leadership among members of the University’s faculty. The promotion and tenure process involves a comprehensive review that includes evaluations […] Office of University Communications | September 22, 2026