news-category: Campus News President Downs to Resign By Gardner-Webb University On February 17, 2025 Downs will resign from the office effective Feb. 18, 2025 BOILING SPRINGS, N.C. – Gardner-Webb University’s President, Dr. William M. Downs, has announced he will resign from the office effective Feb. 18, 2025. Dr. Downs, GWU’s president since 2019, has accepted a new position as president at Campbell University in Buies Creek, N.C., and will begin there in July. He wishes to devote his full energies to preparing to take on his new role. “Dr. Downs’ bold leadership and dynamic energy will leave a lasting mark on Gardner-Webb” said the Rev. Dr. Lamont Littlejohn Jr., chair of the Gardner-Webb Board of Trustees. “We wish him every success as he begins this next chapter.” The Board of Trustees will move with all deliberate speed to form a search committee that includes members of the Board as well as representatives from the University community. To help secure top-flight candidates for this all-important position, the University expects to retain an executive search firm to assist with the search process. Additional information will be provided as it becomes available. About Gardner-Webb University 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 Gardner-Webb University Receives Dover Foundation Grant for Dover Chapel Lighting Renovation Upgrades will Brighten Worship, Gatherings, and Student Performances in Campus Landmark BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Gardner-Webb University has received a generous $66,500 grant from The Dover Foundation to support a major lighting renovation in Dover Chapel. The project will enhance one of the University’s most treasured and historic spaces, further strengthening its role as a central gathering […] Office of University Communications | June 9, 2026
News Article Gardner-Webb, Foothills Workforce Board Empower Students Through Searight Scholars Program High School Students Explore Food Systems, Careers, and Real-World Challenges Through Immersive Event BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Cheese, strawberries and avocados became more than everyday foods for participants in Gardner-Webb University’s inaugural Summer Searight Scholars Program (SSP). Through hands-on learning, students explored how those items reach their plates—and why, in some communities across the United States, access […] Office of University Communications | June 8, 2026
News Article Gardner-Webb Grant Writing Certificate Equips Professionals to Meet Community Needs Participants Gain the Tools to Bring Ideas to Life BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Professionals from across the region recently completed Gardner-Webb University’s Grant Writing Certificate program, developing proposals designed to address real needs in education, public safety, healthcare, and community development. Now equipped with practical skills and grant plans, participants are positioned to pursue funding and turn […] Office of University Communications | June 8, 2026
