Christian College in North Carolina

Christian Mission, Faith & Purpose

Become More at a Christ-Centered University

At Gardner-Webb University, faith shapes who we are and who our students become.

As a private Christian university in North Carolina, we cultivate transformative learning within a Christ-centered community so that graduates are prepared to know Christ, grow in character, and engage the world with wisdom, compassion, and courage.

Education here is not simply about earning a degree. It is about becoming more grounded in faith, growing in knowledge, and going into the world prepared to lead and serve.

Rooted in Purpose. Formed for Impact.

Our Christian identity is expressed through the way we teach, mentor, and serve.

Our core values shape daily life at Gardner-Webb:

Faith Intentionality – Integrating faith into learning and leadership
Student Transformation – Developing the whole person academically, spiritually, and professionally
Servant Leadership – Preparing graduates to lead with humility and conviction
Ethical Action – Forming character marked by integrity and responsibility
Community and Belonging – Honoring the dignity and value of every individual

These values are not symbolic. They guide decisions, relationships, and expectations across campus.

Our Christian foundation is central to the mission of Gardner-Webb University and informs how we prepare students for their calling. Learn more about our mission and vision.

Faith in Action

In the classroom

Faculty integrate faith and learning across disciplines, encouraging rigorous inquiry and thoughtful dialogue. Students are challenged to pursue truth with intellectual curiosity and moral clarity.

In the community

Students from a variety of faith backgrounds are welcomed into a Christ-centered environment rooted in conviction and mutual respect. Worship gatherings, discipleship groups, and everyday conversations foster spiritual growth and meaningful connection.

In Service

Our motto, Pro Deo et Humanitate — For God and Humanity, reflects our calling to live faith through action. Students serve locally and globally through mission work, service initiatives, internships, and leadership development opportunities that connect belief with impact.

“Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’ The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these.”

Mark 12:30-31

Living Our Christian Mission

Faith is lived daily at Gardner-Webb. During the 2024–2025 academic year:

worship gatherings

baptisms celebrated

missions trips & immersion experiences

These moments represent a campus community actively growing in faith and serving others.

Christian Life & Service supports worship, spiritual formation, service engagement, and leadership development across the university.

Learn

Learn more about the Christian Life & Service department at Gardner-Webb.

Discover

Discover worship and spiritual formation opportunities.

Get Involved

Get involved in service and mission initiatives in the United States and abroad.

Our Christian and Baptist Heritage

Gardner-Webb is rooted in historic Christian and Baptist traditions. We affirm the authority of Scripture, the importance of personal faith, and the responsibility to serve others in Christ-like love.

While grounded in these convictions, we welcome students from diverse backgrounds and encourage respectful dialogue and thoughtful exploration.

Why Choose a Christian College in North Carolina?

Students seeking a Christian college often desire more than academics. They want community, conviction, and preparation for meaningful lives.

At Gardner-Webb, you will find rigorous programs, faculty mentorship, spiritual formation, and opportunities to lead and serve — all within a Christ-centered environment committed to your growth.

Begin Your Journey

Choosing a Christian university is about who you are becoming.

If you are seeking a Christian college in North Carolina where faith and learning move forward together, we invite you to discover what it means to Become More at Gardner-Webb University.

Christian Life & Service

Christian Life & Service supports students as they explore faith, purpose, and calling through worship, service, and meaningful community.

Student Ministries

Student Ministries offer opportunities to grow in faith, build community, and serve others through worship, discipleship, and campus involvement.

Christian College in North Carolina

Christian Mission, Faith & Purpose

Become More at a Christ-Centered University

Rooted in Purpose. Formed for Impact.