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 Double the Hoops, Double the Memories: Gardner-Webb’s Hoopscoming 2026 Two Games, One Bulldog Family, Twice the Opportunity to Cheer on the Runnin’ Bulldogs BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Coming in 2026, Gardner-Webb University Alumni Relations is turning up the excitement with two Hoopscoming celebrations. Alumni and fans are welcome back for two memorable game days filled with tradition, excitement, and a tribute to the players and supporters […] Office of University Communications | December 8, 2025
News Article Theandra “Thea” Thompson Named Vice President of Marketing and Communications for Gardner-Webb Former Web & Digital Marketing Communications Leader Brings Vision and Dedication to New Position BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Gardner-Webb President Nate Evans has named Theandra “Thea” Thompson as vice president of Marketing and Communications. Thompson, the former associate vice president of Web & Digital Communications, has served as interim vice president of Marketing since July 1. As […] Office of University Communications | December 8, 2025
News Article From Microbiology to Mentorship: Susan Manahan Retiring After Three Decades at Gardner-Webb Honored as Faculty Emerita, Assistant Professor of Biology Leaves a Legacy of Service and Student Success BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—When Gardner-Webb begins its 2026 Spring Semester on Jan. 12, Assistant Professor of Biology Susan Manahan won’t drive 70 miles to teach her classes that day. After 31 years at the University, Manahan is retiring on Dec. […] Office of University Communications | December 4, 2025