Nathaniel J. Evans Officially Inaugurated as Gardner-Webb University’s 14th President

Investiture Ceremony Affirms Christ‑Centered Mission and Shared Vision for the University’s Future

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Gardner-Webb University’s 14th president, Nathaniel J. Evans, was formally sworn into his office on April 24, 2026. The program was held at 10:15 a.m. in Lutz-Yelton Convocation Center. Board of Trustees Chair the Rev. Dr. M. Lamont Littlejohn Jr. presided over the investiture ceremony.

“Today, we gather as a community of faith, learning, and service,” Littlejohn stated. “We are confident that the leadership being installed today will continue to strengthen the legacy of Gardner-Webb University—building upon the foundation laid by those who have served before, while guiding this institution toward new opportunities for growth, innovation, and impact.”

Evans officially took office at Gardner-Webb on Nov. 11, 2025, after a competitive national search led by Littlejohn. “It was my pleasure to serve as the chair of the Presidential Search Committee,” he reflected. “I am grateful to that committee for their hard work and dedication to the process of finding a new president to lead our beloved institution.”

Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Nicole Waters welcomed attendees and led the program. She introduced podium guests and recognized former Gardner-Webb presidents who were present for the ceremony: Dr. Christopher White, Dr. A. Frank Bonner and former Interim President Dr. Ben Leslie.

Vice President and University Chaplain for Christian Life and Service Dr. Josh Parrott offered the invocation. Dr. Aaron M. Rice, chair of the Department of Music, led the audience in singing the hymn: “Holy, Holy, Holy.” Interim dean of the M. Christopher White School of Divinity Dr. Jim McConnell said the closing prayer.

Greetings were offered by Student Body President Andrea Stampone, Faculty Chair Dr. Cal Robertson, Vice President for Athletics Brendan Fahey, Big South Conference Commissioner Sherika Montgomery, a GWU alumna, and North Carolina Independent Colleges and Universities President A. Hope Williams.

Evans began his inaugural address with a spirit of thanksgiving. “First, I want to thank my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ—not only for this opportunity—but for each of you, and for this institution, this mission field we call Gardner-Webb,” he reflected.

He also expressed appreciation for his wife, Brittany, his parents and friends, Littlejohn and members of the Board of Trustees, faculty, staff, and students. He thanked Executive Assistant to the President Stephanie Stearns and the inauguration steering committee for their leadership in planning the program and celebration.

“Today is not about a ceremony or speeches or any one person. It is about a chapter in a much larger and enduring story, built on the faith, the sacrifice, and the shoulders of those who came before us,” Evans affirmed. “And today, we are entrusted with carrying it forward. Gardner‑Webb is, and will remain, a Christ‑centered university. We will be focused in our priorities, disciplined in our decisions, and bold in our ambition.”

Evans also pointed to the University’s “Become More” vision as a guiding expression of its mission—calling students to grow in Christ, in knowledge, and in purpose. He emphasized that this shared purpose unites faculty, staff, students, alumni, and partners as “One Webb.”

“So, if you are looking for something to believe in, something to invest your time, your talent, and your trust in, bet on us. Bet on Gardner-Webb,” Evans emphasized. “This is our chapter to write. And I am honored to be with you as we write it—grounded in our mission, confident in our future, and committed to the work we are called to do together. The future of Gardner-Webb is bright, and I look forward to all that we will accomplish—together.”

As part of the ceremony, Evans was bestowed the President’s Medallion, which he will wear around his neck at commencements and other important ceremonial occasions. Littlejohn explained that its weight symbolizes the responsibility carried by all who serve in this role, while its design—a replica of the University Seal—represents the community the president serves.

Evans earned his bachelor’s in exercise sports science with a minor in biology from East Carolina University (ECU). He holds Master of Science degree in Human Resource Management from Western Carolina University.

Prior to his appointment as president at Gardner-Webb University, he began his career in admissions at ECU before transitioning to advancement and serving as a major gifts officer for ECU’s Honors College. In 2020, Evans became Gardner-Webb’s vice president for Advancement. Before his career in higher education, Evans served as an officer in the U.S. Air Force.

His wife, Brittany, is a Gardner-Webb alumna and a visiting assistant professor in the College of Education.

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. Become More at gardner-webb.edu.