Gardner-Webb Announces New Vice President for University Advancement

Nate J. Evans Excited to Connect with Alumni and Campus Community

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.— Officials at Gardner-Webb University have announced the selection of a new member of senior staff to lead the Advancement team. Nathaniel “Nate” J. Evans, of Greenville, N.C., will begin his role as Vice President of Advancement on October 5, 2020, and will direct the offices of alumni relations, major gifts, the Bulldog Club, and the annual fund. Most recently, Evans served as senior advancement officer at East Carolina University (ECU) in Greenville, N.C. 

“Nate Evans is going to inject a new level of energy, determination, and skill to fundraising and external relations at GWU,” praised University President Dr. William Downs. “I worked with Nate at ECU during my time there as dean, and I have great confidence in his ability to organize a strong team, to map out a data-driven strategy, and to persist until he reaches or exceeds his goals. Nate will bring professionalism and a compelling personality that Runnin’ Bulldogs everywhere will appreciate.”  

Evans’ higher education career began as an admissions counselor for ECU Undergraduate Admissions. After several years in this position, he transitioned to university advancement working as a major gifts officer on behalf of the ECU Honors College. His role soon transitioned to a regional officer where he diligently worked to engage alumni throughout the region and country to include North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, Texas and Colorado. Evans’ efforts led him into a senior advancement officer role where his responsibilities continued to expand.

“I am honored to have the opportunity, and I am excited to join the team that serves the Gardner-Webb community,” Evans shared. “As a student and later as a fundraiser, I’ve seen firsthand the impact that philanthropy can have for not only students but the rest of the campus community. I am grateful for the chance to help the Runnin’ Bulldogs continue a legacy of success. I am looking forward to connecting with alumni, the staff, and students as we all work together to write Gardner-Webb’s next chapter. I can’t wait to get started. Go Dawgs!” 

During his time in university advancement, Evans helped to raise more than $5.6 million. In addition to securing major gifts, his responsibilities included assisting donors with charitable estate planning and working with community-based programs. More importantly, Evans helped to connect and re-engage hundreds of alumni, who were able to give back and support the university through generous gifts of time, talent, and treasure.

Before his higher education career, Evans served in the U.S. Air Force and later in the small business sector. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Exercise and Sports Science with a minor in biology from ECU along with a Master of Science in Human Resource Management from Western Carolina University (Cullowhee, N.C.)

Evans and his wife Brittany are members of Eastern Pines Church in Greenville, N.C. He has also served with Brothers First Motorcycle Ministry and was the head coach for a middle school wrestling team.

Located in the North Carolina foothills, Gardner-Webb University is a private, Christian, liberal arts university. Gardner-Webb emphasizes a strong student-centered experience and rigorous academics to prepare students to become effective leaders within the global community. Ignite your future at Gardner-Webb.edu.