Ray Curtis Named Gardner-Webb’s Associate VP for Technology, Chief Information Officer

Responsibilities Include Management and Security of the University’s Technological Infrastructure

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Officials at Gardner-Webb have announced that Ray Curtis, a Boiling Springs native, will be the University’s new Associate Vice President for Technology Services and Chief Information Officer (CIO). Curtis will provide vision and leadership for technology services across all GWU divisions.

He starts on July 1 and reports directly to Tim Shuey, vice president of Finance and Administration. “We are very excited to have Ray join our Gardner-Webb University team,” Shuey affirmed. “He brings with him the leadership and vision for our information technology transformation and journey. His technological, cyber security, networking, and help desk expertise will assist Gardner-Webb in achieving our strategic goals and objectives.”

Curtis, a resident of Connelly Springs, N.C., has 20 years of experience in the field and comes to Gardner-Webb from Valdese (N.C.) Weavers, where he has worked since 2007 in various roles. Most recently, he was the technical systems manager and responsible for leading and oversight of the technical team. He managed all aspects of the company’s infrastructure.

He is delighted to be back in the Boiling Springs area. “I was ingrained early with the Runnin’ Bulldogs culture; Let’s Go Dawgs!” Curtis emphasized. “I was schooled across the street when it was Boiling Springs Elementary School. I was a member of Flint Hill Baptist Church in my youth, and I have family still in the area. I believe in the mission of Gardner-Webb University. I’m excited that I could have the opportunity to come back to the Christian institution in my hometown, give back to the community and students, and help change lives. ”

Previously, Curtis was employed at Joan Fabrics Corp. in Hickory, N.C. He has associate degrees from Isothermal Community College in Spindale, N.C., in computer programming, and information systems with a concentration in network administration and support. He earned his bachelor’s degree in information technologies from East Carolina University in 2011. He has extensive technical training, including knowledge of multiple networking environments, programming languages, and advanced certificates in computer software and cybersecurity.

At Gardner-Webb, Curtis will be responsible for the management and security of the University’s academic, administrative and integrated technological assets and infrastructure, and its services. These services include the design, development and implementation of information systems, enterprise and end-user applications, security profile and policies, and networks and systems. Essentially, he will provide strategic leadership and planning in support of the information technology needs of academics, research, and administration. He will enhance and secure the Gardner-Webb University security profile.

Gardner-Webb University is North Carolina’s recognized leader in private, Christian higher education. A Carnegie-Classified Doctoral/Professional University, GWU is home to six professional schools, 14 academic departments, 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.