news-category: Athletics

Introduction of GWU’s New VP and Director of Athletics Seen by Viewers Across the Globe

Photo by Sarah Garrison / GWU Photo Team

Dr. Andrew T. Goodrich, a Leader in Athletics Administration, Begins His Role in Early October 

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—The livestream introduction and welcome of Gardner-Webb University’s new Vice President and Director of Athletics, Dr. Andrew T. Goodrich, received more than 360 views from nine states: North and South Carolina, Florida, Georgia, Tennessee, New York, Virginia, Indiana, Ohio; Washington, D.C.; and eight countries: Denmark, France, Sweden, United Kingdom, Sierra Leone, Australia, India and Netherlands. The story appeared on television news outlets in Charlotte, Greensboro and Raleigh, and was shared by several news websites across the United States.

Goodrich, a leader in athletics administration, joins the Gardner-Webb family from Syracuse University, where he served as Deputy Director of Athletics & Chief Marketing Officer. He has demonstrated a strong foundation of success not only at Syracuse, but in his previous roles at the University of South Florida, The University of Miami (Fla.) and Notre Dame.

Photo by Danielle Billups / GWU Photo Team

Gardner-Webb President William Downs noted the historic nature of the announcement for the University and its current and future student-athletes. “Dr. Andrew T. Goodrich is the real deal,” Downs praised. “He’s passionate, he’s driven, he’s entrepreneurial and he will be relentless in his drive to elevate Gardner-Webb Athletics.”

The Owego, N.Y., native will begin his role at Gardner-Webb in early October. In his introductory speech to the campus, Goodrich outlined his goals for the athletics program and affirmed, “We, at Gardner-Webb, will strive to provide our student-athletes with the greatest experience possible and an incredible education that will prepare all of you mentally, physically, emotionally, spiritually, to be successful on and off the field and in your communities for the rest of your lives.”

He added that Gardner-Webb has a high standard of excellence and is poised for growth. “I cannot think of anything I would rather do and anything that would be more fulfilling than to help this university and community maximize the full potential of the Runnin’ Bulldog nation,” he concluded.

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.

Photo by Danielle Billups / GWU Photo Team

Previous News Article

GWU President William Downs Elected to Big South Conference Executive Committee

Next News Article

Celebrating Alumni - Dr. Tia Jones Honored as National Outstanding Assistant Principal

Related News

  • News Article

    Faith in Action: Jackson Hartley Prepares for a Calling in Ministry

    Christian Studies Major Uses Scholarship Opportunities, Leadership Roles and Service Experiences to Prepare for Ministry By Victoria Edwards, Intern for University Communications BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—As a teenager, Ignite Scholar Jackson Hartley made one of the most important decisions of his life: following Jesus. “God saved my life when I was in high school,” noted Hartley. […]

    Jackson Hartley, center, in Theology Class
  • News Article

    Cleveland County Women’s Basketball Legends to Be Honored at Wall of Fame Ceremony

    Event on Oct. 24 at Gardner-Webb to Recognize 50 Players, Along with Coaches, Officials and Trainers; Runnin’ Bulldogs Head Coach Terri Williams to Deliver Keynote Address BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Gardner-Webb University is pleased to host the 2026 Women’s Basketball Legends Wall of Fame Induction Ceremony on Saturday, Oct. 24, at 4 p.m. in Tucker Student Center. […]

    basketball on court floor
  • News Article

    Come Home to Gardner-Webb: Homecoming 2026 Offers Something for Every Bulldog

    Annual Celebration Features Reunions, Athletic Events, Family Activities and Weeklong Bulldog Cares Food Pantry Collection Drive BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Gardner-Webb University’s Homecoming 2026 will combine celebration and service as alumni, students, faculty, staff and friends gather Nov. 6-8 for athletic events, reunions, worship opportunities and longstanding campus traditions. Leading up to the weekend, the campus and […]

    Homecoming Newscenter Day Of Graphic