Dr. Tracy Arnold Appointed Dean of Gardner-Webb University’s College of Health Sciences

Arnold Steps into the Permanent Role with a Strong Record of Leadership and Service

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Nicole Waters has announced the appointment of Dr. Tracy Arnold as dean of the College of Health Sciences (CoHS). Arnold has served as interim dean since April 2025 and previously served as CoHS associate dean.

In her new role as dean, Arnold will continue to work closely with faculty and staff to support the college’s ongoing priorities and initiatives. “Dr. Arnold brings a wealth of experience and expertise to this role,” Waters emphasized. “With a background as a dean/director of the Hunt School of Nursing, an associate dean, and an interim dean for the College of Health Sciences, she has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to advancing academic excellence and fostering a supportive environment for faculty, staff, and students. Dr. Arnold’s exceptional organizational and leadership abilities have strengthened the college and positioned it for sustained growth and success. I am confident that her continued leadership will further advance the College of Health Sciences’ mission and provide momentum and strategic direction for the future.”

A native of Sylva, N.C., Arnold is a four-time graduate of Gardner-Webb. She received her Associate Degree in Nursing in 2002, Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) in 2004, Master of Science in Nursing in Nursing Administration in 2006 and Doctor of Nursing Practice in 2012. She worked eight years at CaroMont Health in Gastonia, N.C., in a variety of departments and served various leadership roles. She began as full-time faculty in HSON in 2010 and has served as BSN program and licensure coordinator, chair of pre-licensure nursing programs, associate director, and director.

“I am deeply honored by this appointment and grateful for the confidence and support of President (Nate) Evans, Dr. Waters, and my colleagues across the College of Health Sciences,” Arnold stated. “I also appreciate the leadership of Dr. Waters and the strong foundation she established, which continues to guide and strengthen the work of the College.”

She continued, “I look forward to building on our momentum by working closely with department and school leaders to advance strategic initiatives that support our faculty, staff, and students, while positioning the College for continued growth and success. Our college remains committed to being Christ-centered, student-focused, and purpose-driven, while furthering teaching excellence, student success, and meaningful engagement in health sciences education and practice.”

Additionally, Arnold’s accreditation expertise was recognized nationally when she was elected in 2024 to a three-year term on the Board of Commissioners for the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). Through her voluntary service with ACEN, she has developed extensive knowledge of accreditation processes and standards, serving since 2014 as a peer evaluator, team chair, and member of the Evaluation Review Panel. This experience equips her to provide informed leadership and support for accreditation across all College of Health Sciences programs, encompassing multiple disciplines and accrediting bodies.

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. Become More at gardner-webb.edu.