news-category: Faculty Gardner-Webb Divinity School Professor Dr. Steve Harmon Featured on Spectrum Local News By Office of University Communications On February 26, 2025 Harmon Shares About Meeting Pope Francis in 2022 BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—As thousands gathered in St. Peter’s Square this week to pray for Pope Francis, Gardner-Webb Professor of historical theology Dr. Steve Harmon remembered meeting the Pope in 2022 and joined the world in praying for the Pope’s recovery. Harmon reflected on the time he spent with Pope Francis in a story by Spectrum News Anchor Rachel Loyd. The segment aired on Feb. 25 on Spectrum Local News. Harmon met the Pope through his work with the Baptist World Alliance. Read more here. “It was certainly an honor to meet Pope Francis,” Harmon said. Their 2022 meeting was just as Harmon imagined it would be. “Pope Francis was as many people experienced—warm, very personable, very engaged with the people and concerned about them,” he said. “Pope Francis was as many people experienced—warm, very personable, very engaged with the people and concerned about them.” Watch the Spectrum story here. 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. Interested in the School of Divinity? Start your journey here.
News Article Gardner-Webb to Celebrate Grand Opening of Bulldog Cares Food Pantry Oct. 2 Campus Community Invited to Bring Donations and Help Stock Shelves for Students in Need BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.— A jar of peanut butter. A box of pasta. A bottle of laundry detergent. Each may seem like a small contribution, but together they can make a meaningful difference for a Gardner-Webb student facing hardship. Beginning Oct. 2, […] Office of University Communications | September 24, 2026
News Article Memories, Friendships and a Spirit of Service Draw Alumni Back to Gardner-Webb for Special Reunion Class of 1981 Marks 45th Reunion by Welcoming Alumni from Six Gardner-Webb Classes BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—When members of Gardner-Webb University’s Class of 1981 return to campus for a homecoming reunion in November, they will reconnect with longtime friends to celebrate the 45th anniversary of their graduation. The event began as a conversation between 1981 classmates […] Office of University Communications | September 23, 2026
News Article Gardner-Webb Welcomes Alumni Home for Homecoming 2026 Annual Celebration Features Class Reunions, Traditions, Athletics, and Opportunities to Reconnect BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—“There’s just something special about coming home to Gardner-Webb,” said Shannon Hovis, director of alumni and parent relations. “So many memories, so many friendships, and always a place to call home.” That sense of connection is at the heart of Gardner-Webb University’s […] Office of University Communications | September 23, 2026