Dr. Iva Naydenova Receives the Gardner-Webb 2023-2024 Excellence in Teaching Award

Psychology Professor Recognized for her Exceptional Teaching, Mentoring and Scholarship

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—The winner of the Gardner-Webb 2023-2024 Excellence in Teaching Award began teaching at the University nearly 15 years ago. Dr. Ivelina “Iva” Naydenova, chair and professor in the Department of Psychological Science, was recognized at the 2024 Faculty Assembly as an exceptional faculty member who displays academic rigor, designs effective courses, and is dedicated to her students’ success.

To be selected for this prestigious award, a faculty member must be nominated by one of their peers and receive a recommendation from their chair. Faculty and students are given the opportunity to score and leave comments and feedback to make the ultimate determination for the award. This award also recognizes the faculty member who exemplifies through their life and teaching the motto and mission of Gardner-Webb. The award is presented with a cash prize and the invitation to speak at a future Fall Convocation. 

Naydenova started her career at Gardner-Webb after receiving her doctorate and has grown to be a tenured professor. She has thrived at GWU to become an accomplished teacher, mentor and scholar. She has become a favorite among students, and her classes fill up quickly.

Those who nominated her praised her innovative approach and creativity in presenting information to students. They wrote about how she engages her students with hands-on learning, and she has developed new and interesting courses with video components. Additionally, Naydenova has mentored students to present at the Southeastern Psychological Association and helped them to publish their work. She is the co-advisor to Psi Chi and has supported the local, regional and national chapter. 

Her students had to say:

• “She is a great instructor; she goes above and beyond to help all students. She is very passionate about teaching and is a great resource and the best professor I have had this semester. “
• “She is a great professor, and you could tell she wanted to be there.” 
• “Great class. Final project and paper were great learning objectives. 

Her colleagues commented: 

• “She brings passion and enthusiasm to her work in ways that inspire her students to accomplish great things.”
• “I could not ask for a better colleague.” 

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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.