Gardner-Webb University Provost Dr. Karen Aubrey Resigns

Dean Dr. Nicole Waters Named Interim

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Karen Aubrey has announced her resignation from Gardner-Webb University. She will remain in her role through April 22. Dean Dr. Nicole Waters will serve as interim provost.

Interim GWU President Nate Evans praised Aubrey’s outstanding contributions to the University. “Dr. Aubrey is an exceptional colleague and provost, and I am profoundly grateful for her leadership and dedication to Gardner-Webb University,” he affirmed. “Her passion for academic excellence has left a lasting mark on our campus. As she embarks on her next chapter, we wish her the very best.”

Aubrey came to Gardner-Webb in 2022 with 30 years of experience in higher education. She has led many important initiatives during her tenure at the University. As chief academic administrator, she has managed teaching, learning, scholarship, and research initiatives at Gardner-Webb.

Aubrey helped the University prepare its Fifth-Year Interim report to the accrediting body, the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). Gardner-Webb was deemed in full compliance and accredited to award associate, baccalaureate, master’s and doctoral degrees.

Aubrey managed the transition to online textbooks, hired a new registrar for the University and expanded the cybersecurity program to offer both online and in-person bachelor’s degree options.

She also assisted with establishing a partnership with McAllister & Quinn, a consulting firm that supports Gardner-Webb’s efforts to secure federal and private foundation grants. The company’s expert staff helps GWU pursue funding for scholarships and student support, academic programs, research, and equipment.

Waters currently serves as dean, College of Health Sciences, renamed in 2021 from associate provost of College of Health Sciences, where she has been an educator for over a decade. Since joining the nursing faculty in 2011, she has played a role in shaping the University’s healthcare programs, previously serving as the dean of the Hunt School of Nursing. An alumna of Gardner-Webb, Waters earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Doctor of Nursing Practice degrees from the University, complementing her education with a Master of Science in Nursing from Western Carolina University and an associate’s degree from Gaston College.

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.