BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—91¿ì²¥-Webb University officials are pleased to announce the Spring 2024 academic achievements.

Students who have earned a 4.0 grade point average for the semester are named to the President’s List. These students must be enrolled in a minimum of 12 semester hours. View the list here.

The Dean’s List is composed of undergraduate college students with a grade point average of 4.0 if enrolled for 12-14 hours and 3.7 if enrolled for 15 or more hours with no grade lower than a “C.� The list is available here.

The Honor Roll is composed of undergraduate college students with a grade point average of 3.5 who are enrolled for 12-14 hours with no grade below a “C� or students with a grade point average of 3.2 who are enrolled for 15 or more hours with no grade below a “C.� Find the list here.

91¿ì²¥-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., 91¿ì²¥-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 91¿ì²¥-Webb.edu.

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BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Retired Master Sgt. John Whitaker, a decorated war veteran, will be the featured speaker for 91¿ì²¥-Webb’s Annual Community Memorial Day Observance and Prayer Gathering. The service will be held on Friday, May 24, at 9:30 a.m. in front of Hamrick Hall. In case of rain, the program will be held in Dover Chapel.

Each year, the University pauses to remember the lives of those who have died in military service to their country. The national Memorial Day observance dates back to 1868 and exists to recognize and remember those who paid the ultimate price in order to make the world a safer place.

The program will begin with a welcome and invocation by Vice President for Christian Life and Service and University Chaplain Dr. Josh Parrott. Associate Professor and Chair of the Department of Music Dr. Aaron Rice will sing the national anthem. Vice President for Advancement Nate Evans will lead the responsive reading from Psalm 67:1-7. 91¿ì²¥-Webb President Dr. William M. Downs will introduce the speaker.

Whitaker, a native of Gastonia, N.C., serves as discipleship pastor for City Church, a multiple campus church of over 3,500 members. He is also executive director of Hope4Gaston, a Christian non-profit that over the past 10 years has provided food to over 500,000 individuals, remodeled over 800 houses for families in need, and operates a free clothing store that has served over 250,000 individuals. Whitaker also volunteers as the chaplain for the Gastonia Police Department, providing ministry support for 190 officers and administrative staff. He is a graduate of Southern Evangelical Seminary in Matthews, N.C. He is married to Amy, their blended family includes two daughters, three sons, and four grandchildren.

He entered the U.S. Air Force after graduating from Hunter Huss High School in 1986 and served 25 years, retiring in 2011. Whitaker spent 10 years of his military service flying in support of America’s War on Terror. He has accumulated over 2,500 hours of total flight time as a C-130H3 Flight Engineer. Whitaker has over 1,000 combat hours flying missions in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Whitaker was awarded the U.S. Air Force Meritorious Service Medal, The Air Medal, seven times for combat aerial operations; the Arial Achievement Medal, twice; Afghanistan Campaign Medal, The Air Force Combat Action Medal, for direct combat engagement against enemy forces, and The Global War on Terrorism Medal and several other accommodations for valor and service. He also has over 500 hours of flight time dedicated to humanitarian missions involving hurricane relief, providing food in developing countries and firefighting missions in the Western United States.

After Whitaker’s remarks and devotion, Vice President for Student Development and Dean of Students Lesley Villarose will conduct the Remembrance of The Fallen: Silence is observed as the bell tolls 21 times, the highest military honor to those who died defending our freedom and democracy. Associate Vice President of Marketing Wilson Brooks will play Taps. Downs will give closing remarks, and Associate Minister for the University for Pastoral Care Stacy Simmons will offer the benediction.

Auxiliary aids will be made available to persons with disabilities upon request 10 working days prior to the event.  Please call 704-406-4270 or email disabilityservices@gardner-webb.edu with your request.

91¿ì²¥-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., 91¿ì²¥-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 91¿ì²¥-Webb.edu.

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BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—91¿ì²¥-Webb continually seeks scholarship opportunities for its students. A major partner in this endeavor is the Lettie Pate Whitehead (LPW) Foundation Inc. For nearly three decades, LPW has supported Christian higher education at GWU with a donation history reaching close to $4 million.

“Our relationship with the Lettie Pate Whitehead Foundation truly is a special one, and it has been sustained over the years such that the impact on GWU students is both profound and indelible,â€� shared 91¿ì²¥-Webb President Dr. William M. Downs. “Not long ago we were privileged to host Carrie Conway (Senior Program Officer) and Lyons Gray (Trustee for the LPW Foundation) on our campus, and I am grateful for their subsequent decision to continue supporting our students. Because 91¿ì²¥-Webb’s student- and faith-centric mission aligns so nicely with the Foundation’s, this is a natural partnership that we value very highly.â€�

The LPW Foundation was chartered in 1946 and devotes most of its resources to the scholarship program, which provides scholarship grants with the intent of educating Christian women with demonstrated financial need, at nearly 200 higher education institutions across the southeast.

In fiscal years 2023-2024 and 2024-2025, LPW’s trustees presented 91¿ì²¥-Webb with grants totaling $290,000 for each year. These gifts, along with other University aid, provide scholarships in financial aid packages to students in nursing and other undergraduate programs.

91¿ì²¥-Webb graduate Alivia Lo received her degree in elementary education on May 2, 2024. She expressed her gratitude for the financial assistance from LPW. “As a woman and a first-generation Hmong college student, the Lettie Pate Whitehead Foundation Scholarship has helped me put financial needs at ease, so I could focus on achieving a life-long goal of graduating with my degree,â€� Lo affirmed. “Without the Lettie Pate Whitehead Foundation Scholarship, paying my way through college would have been nearly impossible; it has been a huge blessing in my life.â€�

Emily Cox, also a May 2024 graduate with a degree in political science and public relations, reflected on what the funds have meant to her. In addition to her studies, she has served as parliamentarian for the Student Government Association and is a student advisor for the College of Arts and Sciences. “The Lettie Pate Whitehead Foundation has enabled me to continue my studies at 91¿ì²¥-Webb, allowing me to thrive in my education,â€� Cox asserted. “The support I have received allowed me to take more classes geared toward my future career and learn and grow in a supportive environment. I would not have been able to continue my education with my GWU family without the Lettie Pate Whitehead Foundation.â€�

Lettie Pate Whitehead Evans was a generous philanthropist and accomplished businesswoman. She was the wife of Joseph B. Whitehead, one of the original bottlers of Coca-Cola. At his death, she assumed management of his business affairs, establishing the Whitehead Holding Company and the Whitehead Realty Company and leading the Coca-Cola Bottling Company in Atlanta. She also became one of the first female directors of any major U.S. corporation when she was appointed to the board of The Coca-Cola Company in 1934, a position she held for nearly 20 years.

Whitehead felt a keen sense of duty to those in need. Grieving the loss of her first husband and two sons, she devoted herself to faith and philanthropy. A quote she lived by is tucked inside the pages of her personal scrapbook. The inspirational words are attributed to Stephen Grellet, a French-American missionary from the 18th/19th centuries: “I shall pass through this world but once. Any good therefore that I can do or any kindness that I can show to any human being, let me do it now. Let me not defer or neglect it, for I shall not pass this way again.�

Besides providing scholarships, the Foundation also supports select elderly care facilities in Georgia, North Carolina and Virginia. A video with more information on the Whitehead family can be found

91¿ì²¥-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., 91¿ì²¥-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 91¿ì²¥-Webb.edu

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BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—91¿ì²¥-Webb recently received a $150,000 grant that will transform healthcare, science and fine art education at the University. Presented by The Cannon Foundation, this funding will benefit students in the College of Health Sciences and the College of Arts and Sciences, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and enriching educational experiences.

“The equipment that we are able to purchase in Natural Sciences and Music through the support of The Cannon Foundation Grant goes directly to student usage,� stated Dean and Professor of the College of Arts and Sciences, Dr. Robert Prickett. “The piano lab will allow music students to have the latest curriculum and equipment update. The chemistry lab equipment will allow students to do deeper research and different research. Ultimately, this funding allows us to get our students hands even dirtier (in a good way) — which we love.�

While providing financial support, this grant catalyzes collaboration and education across departments and invests in 91¿ì²¥-Webb’s “high growthâ€� programs.

91¿ì²¥-Webb President Dr. William M. Downs shared his praise for the funding partnership: “We are grateful for our friends from Cannon who visited GWU’s campus last September and saw opportunity for investment across multiple academic areas. Clearly, our students and faculty will benefit immediately from this grant, and their success will help us expand the University’s approach to foundational support in the future. It’s another solid step forward for 91¿ì²¥-Webb.â€�

Dr. Aaron M. Rice, chair of the Department of Music, said the grant will purchase nine Yamaha digital keyboards along with the networking technology that allows the teacher to work with the whole group or individual students. “We are delighted to provide upgraded learning experiences for our students in the Department of Music,� Rice shared. “This enhanced equipment will help musicians build their skills and prepare to impact their communities as teachers, composers, church musicians, or performers.�

In the Department of Natural Sciences, the funds will purchase equipment that will be used to identify particular chemicals. Department Chair Dr. David Campbell related, “The XRF specifically detects different elements, while the mass spectrometer is more used for molecules. We can use the XRF to identify elements in a rock or mineral specimen, or building materials, or anything that we want to study.  The XRF can just be pointed at the object of interest. The mass spectrometer needs a small sample to feed into the device.â€�

On behalf of the College of Health Sciences, Dean and Professor Dr. Nicole Waters expressed deep gratitude for the continuous support from The Cannon Foundation, which enables the College to procure essential equipment. Waters explained, “This equipment enriches the experiential learning of our students, facilitating realistic skills development within a safe learning environment. Ultimately, this support ensures our graduates are well-prepared to enter healthcare settings and deliver care.�

The funds were used to upgrade simulation recording abilities to provide more opportunities to record and review simulations, allowing students to reflect on their performance, identify areas for improvement, and enhance their skills. The College also purchased Task Trainers for Wound Care and Lumbar Puncture, a crucial investment in developing practical skills for students. By using the task trainers, students practice these procedures repeatedly, ensuring they are well-prepared for clinical settings.

The last piece of equipment bought by the College of Health Sciences is a low-fidelity simulator, which allows students to practice various clinical scenarios in a safe environment, from fundamental nursing skills to advanced cardiac life support. Low-fidelity simulators help bridge the gap between theory and practice, ensuring 91¿ì²¥-Webb graduates are fully-equipped and confident as they enter the healthcare workforce.

About The Cannon Foundation

The was established in 1943 by Charles A. Cannon, President and CEO of Cannon Mills Company. The Foundation continues his philanthropic legacy by funding capital and equipment projects for organizations across Mr. Cannon’s home state of North Carolina. The foundation focuses its work on higher education, human services, healthcare and community.

About 91¿ì²¥-Webb

91¿ì²¥-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., 91¿ì²¥-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 91¿ì²¥-Webb.edu.

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BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—A dozen students from 91¿ì²¥-Webb University’s Department of Exercise Science recently attended the Integrating Research in Science (IRIS) conference at Wake Forest University in Winston-Salem, N.C. The 91¿ì²¥-Webb delegation was one of 21 groups that participated in the poster presentation section of the event.

This student-led conference brought together the realms of STEM and STEM-related fields. The one-day event allows undergraduate students to promote their research, network among professors and peers, and prepare for their academic and professional careers by attending expert panels. Learn more about the conference, .

The following students attended the conference and/or participated in designing the poster presentations:

• “The Effect of Blood Flow Restriction on Blood Lactate During Biceps Brachii Curls in 20 Recreational Collegiate Weightliftersâ€� — Nicholas J. Cobble, Joshua L. Parra, *Alena Ivanov, and *Traci L. Cross.
• “Does Mentholated Ointment Have an Effect on Aerobic Exercise in Soccer Players?â€� — Augustin Garcia, and Valeria Ruffo.
• “Bodyweight and Limb Length of College-Age Males Compared to 1 Rep Max on Bench Press and Deadliftsâ€� — Garrison Hobbs, Jamiel Colon, Avery Bridges, and Keshaun Brown.
• “The Effect of Caffeine on a 100-Meter Sprint in College Studentsâ€� — Zoe G. Mina, Madalyn G. Schnur, and *Lacy E. Brooks.
• “Does Timing of Carbohydrate Intake Prior to Exercise Influence the Performance of a One-Mile Run for Healthy College-Age Females?â€� — Trista Williams, Natalie Spencer, Atley Banks, and *Kendal Vest.

Students marked with an asterisk were unable to attend the conference.

91¿ì²¥-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., 91¿ì²¥-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 91¿ì²¥-Webb.edu.

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BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—High school students from five nearby counties recently participated in Foothills Writers Day on the 91¿ì²¥-Webb University campus. Sponsored by the Department of English Language and Literature and the Broad River Review, the literary magazine of GWU, the event featured four GWU alumni, who shared about their work as young writers. The winners of the Foothills Writing Contest were also announced. The contest was open to ninth- through 12-graders in Cleveland, Gaston, Rutherford, Lincoln or Polk counties in North Carolina.

“The Department of English was excited to once again host the Foothills Writers Day on campus,â€� noted Department Chair Dr. Chris Davis. “This year’s theme of ‘Young Writers at Work’ presented a unique opportunity for regional high school students to meet and spend the day with our GWU alumni visiting writers.â€�

May Tate, a ninth-grade student at Lake Lure (N.C.) Classical Academy, won first prize with her entry “A Portrait of Many Colors.� She won a $100 Amazon gift care and her personal essay will be considered for publication in the Broad River Review.

“The departmental reading committee for the Foothills Writing Contest was impressed with the variety and high quality of the entries this year,â€� noted English department Chair Dr. Chris Davis. “However, May Tate’s personal essay rose above the others in an obvious way. Tate’s sophisticated use of language and her willingness to be vulnerable on the page are remarkable qualities of her writing.”

Tate is active in drama, having performed in a total of five theater productions in the last three years. She won an Excellence in Acting award from the North Carolina Theater Conference the first year she attended, and this year, the cast from her school won five awards as well as Honorable Mention. She is a freshman representative for Student Council and freshman Homecoming Princess. Tate has also received school awards in cheerleading, academics, and general leadership. She is a member of the Sunshine High School Student Kindness club.

Honorable Mentions were presented to:

• Wyatt Smith, Gaston Day School, “Dropping Off.
• Hadley Throckmorton, Gaston Day School, “A Death.â€�

They each received a $50 Amazon gift card.

Other finalists included:

• Madison Aliano, North Lincoln High School, “The Veil.â€�
• Ava Kipp, Gaston Day School, “Letter to Seth Avett.â€�
• Kensley Marlowe, Burns High School, “Anxiety.â€�
• Matilda McDaniel, Gaston Day School, “Beautiful Girl.â€�
• Genevieve McGrath, Gaston Day School, “A Coffee Date with Death.â€�

The 91¿ì²¥-Webb alumni who attended were:

• Faith Noel Augustine, ‘23, author of “Lydiaâ€� and “The Hot Spring Lions Society.â€�
• Jen Guberman, ‘17, author of “The Eos Dawnâ€� series and “Thieves of Joy.â€�
• A.G Hilton, ’17, author of “Nightside Tales.â€�
• Kait McNeilly, ‘15, author of “Ephemeral Arteries.â€�

91¿ì²¥-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., 91¿ì²¥-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 91¿ì²¥-Webb.edu.

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BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Since moving to Boiling Springs in 2022, there’s one question 91¿ì²¥-Webb University Director of Bands Dr. Sarah Fabian expects to be asked in May. Whether she’s walking around her neighborhood or in town, people want to know, “When’s that band getting here?â€�

As a former member of the group, Fabian knows firsthand the band they are referring to is Carolina Crown Drum & Bugle Corps, a competitive drum corps whose members are age 21 and under. Based out of Fort Mill, S.C., the corps tours the United States every summer performing in Drum Corps International (DCI) competitions. Since 2007, Crown has consistently placed in the world class top six and in 2013 even won the gold medal — and every summer they start with a month of rehearsals at 91¿ì²¥-Webb University.

This year, Crown will be on campus May 16-June 16. “It’s the talk of the town and something exciting that happens here over the summer,� Fabian affirmed. “It’s a big presence on campus and a benefit to watch their high-level skills and abilities.�

In the 17 years that Carolina Crown has held its pre-tour rehearsals at 91¿ì²¥-Webb, relationships have been built between the musicians and the community. 91¿ì²¥-Webb President Dr. William M. Downs praised the partnership, “The energy, the precision, the big bold sound … we love that GWU nurtures something so good each and every summer. And as we continue to build enthusiasm around our own resurgent marching band, it helps to have Crown on our field and on full display. Music with a mission has its home at a University on a mission. Welcome back, Carolina Crown!â€�

Fabian was introduced to 91¿ì²¥-Webb in 2009 when she toured with Carolina Crown. Because of her memorable experience on campus, she decided to take the position here. Through Crown, Fabian developed ties to drum corps and has worked as a clinician with many Drum Corps and Winter Guard International groups. Two of the instructors for the Marching Bulldogs are also instructors for Carolina Crown. Fabian said the GWU students will volunteer to help Crown in various ways while they are on campus, and they enjoy watching, listening and learning from the rehearsals.

Carolina Crown Director Joe Roach also noted the significance of the organization’s ties to 91¿ì²¥-Webb. “Each year Crown begins its summer experience bringing 165 performers from all around the country to 91¿ì²¥-Webb for four weeks of spring training in preparation for our national tour,â€� he shared. “91¿ì²¥-Webb is our home away from home. The University and surrounding community are so supportive and welcoming year after year.â€�

Roach continued, “We are lucky to have a former member of Carolina Crown on faculty at 91¿ì²¥-Webb. Dr. Sarah Fabian is a great ambassador for the University and continues to be a supportive alumna of the drum corps. Working with her and getting her students involved while we are on campus has been a lot of fun the past couple of years.â€�

While Crown’s impact is felt on campus and in town through their music and the fans who come to see them rehearse, the drum corps takes a little part of GWU with them on a tour that stops in 14 states.

“91¿ì²¥-Webb means a lot to the alumni, members and staff of Carolina Crown,â€� Fabian explained. “Many families, friends, fans, and alumni make their way to 91¿ì²¥-Webb to support Crown during their Preview show in June. There is even a tradition that takes place during Spring training for anybody who is aging out of the corps to buy GWU T-shirts and gear before they leave on their last tour.â€�

Another aspect of the Crown organization is their work in communities where they perform. Through Crown Cares, members participate in community outreach programs, music education initiatives, collect shoes and socks for Samaritan’s Feet, and distribute books to children in need.

Crown has commissioned world-renowned composer John Mackey to compose an original piece for their show this season. Performers will have the opportunity to engage with Mackey when he visits this summer. Mackey’s creation will later be arranged as concert band literature to be released in the fall, creating a legacy work that will live on long past finals night.

Before they leave on tour, Crown will present CrownLive in Spangler Stadium on June 15. The box office opens at 6 p.m. Gates will open at 6:30 p.m. and warmups begin. The live performance starts at 8 p.m. Performances will include features by individual sections of the Corps as well as the full 2024 production. General admission seating is $20 and tickets are available .

About Carolina Crown

Established in 1988, Carolina Crown, Inc. is a 501(c)3 organization whose mission is to “develop lifelong excellence in young people.� Carolina Crown achieves this goal through performance opportunities and a commitment to education in the performing arts with core values of integrity, commitment, respect and excellence. For general information, visit or on , or .

About 91¿ì²¥-Webb

91¿ì²¥-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., 91¿ì²¥-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 91¿ì²¥-Webb.edu.

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BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—91¿ì²¥-Webb University has hired Jeffrey Merrill as its new assistant athletic director for compliance, announced Vice President & Director of Athletics Dr. Andrew T. Goodrich this week. Merrill joins 91¿ì²¥-Webb after 10 years at Lees-McRae College in Banner Elk, N.C., where he most recently served as deputy director of Athletics and chief compliance officer.

“In this era of ever-changing NCAA rules, having an incredibly confident, competent, and hard-working compliance officer can truly elevate the experience for our student-athletes and coaching staff,� explained Goodrich. “I am incredibly excited to welcome Jeffrey to the Runnin’ Bulldog family.�

91¿ì²¥-Webb President Dr. William M. Downs also praised Merrill’s knowledge of the job. “Jeffrey knows and understands the terrain of collegiate athletics, and he fully appreciates the imperative of fielding teams that abide by both the spirit and letter of NCAA regulations,â€� Downs observed. “He’s guided coaches and players for years, he’s taught it in the college classroom, and he’s partnered effectively with university leaders to ensure that winning is done the right way. Add to all of this that he exudes a passion and joy for his work, and Jeffrey Merrill presents himself as a terrific match for GWU.â€�     

Merrill thanked Downs and Goodrich for the opportunity to join the 91¿ì²¥-Webb community. “I’m excited to assist 91¿ì²¥-Webb Athletics on their journey of achieving academic and athletic excellence,â€� Merrill shared. “For the first time, but most certainly not the last, ‘Sko Dawgs!â€�

Merrill was elevated to his current role at Lees McRae in 2022. In addition to oversight of the department’s compliance efforts, Merrill’s responsibilities included game administration at home competitions, managing the media room schedule, completing the annual NCAA reports, and monitoring the academic success of Lees-McRae’s 300+ student-athletes.

Merrill joined Lees-McRae in 2014 as the director of compliance and Title IX coordinator. He was promoted to assistant athletic director in 2018, a role he held until his most recent promotion, and has continued to serve as Title IX coordinator throughout his tenure. In 2019, Merrill became an adjunct professor in the school’s sport management program.

A member of the National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics (NACDA), and both the Early Intervention Team for Student Academic Success and the Staff Association Bylaw Committee at Lees-McRae, Merrill has participated in numerous workshops including the NCAA Leadership Development Program and the BB&T Leadership Development Program. Merrill also received the Edgar Tufts Humanitarian Award in 2021 and was presented with the Bridge Builder Award by Lees-McRae in 2015-16.

Merrill is a 2012 cum laude graduate of Belmont Abbey College in Belmont, N.C., with a bachelor’s degree in sport management. He completed his master’s degree in college athletic administration in 2017 from Coker College in Hartsville, S.C.

91¿ì²¥-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., 91¿ì²¥-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 91¿ì²¥-Webb.edu.

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BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.— 91¿ì²¥-Webb Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Karen Aubrey has announced the hiring of a new University Registrar. Linda M. Fleischman, who has more than 30 years of registrar experience, will begin her responsibilities at GWU on May 13.

Fleischman lives in Kings Mountain, N.C., and previously served 11 years as registrar at Queens University in Charlotte, N.C. Her experience also includes serving as registrar at Keuka College in Keuka Park, N.Y.

Referencing Fleischman’s years of experience in higher education, Aubrey observed, “Her professionalism and knowledge of best practices and processes, and her familiarity with the inner workings of a Registrar’s Office will be of incalculable value as she builds that office. She is also a delight to talk to, so I look forward to working with her and seeing her become part of our campus.â€� 

91¿ì²¥-Webb President Dr. William M. Downs also noted Fleischman’s strengths. “We’re adding a highly capable professional to a position that is absolutely critical to the success of our students and to the operation of our academic programs,â€� Downs stated. “Linda Fleischman knows how to both lead and manage, she has ideas for how to innovate for effect, and she comes to us highly recommended by those who have previously worked with her. I’m eager to see the positive impact she will most assuredly make.â€�

While at Queens, Fleischman systematically reviewed the Registrar’s Office services and procedures to improve the student experience and progression towards graduation. She collaborated with faculty committees and administrative offices to develop, review, and revise academic policies and procedures.

Fleischman is excited to join the 91¿ì²¥-Webb community. “I look forward to working with everyone as we move the Registrar’s Office forward and assist our students in reaching their educational goals,â€� she affirmed.

Fleischman’s experience includes working with prospective students to evaluate transfer credit and pre-enrollment counseling. As a skilled communicator, she coordinated course scheduling and room assignments with Queens University’s schools and colleges and worked closely with admissions, student financial services, student accounts office, institutional research, and information technology services.

At Keuka College, she developed the policies and procedures that grew the office from one that served 500 undergraduate students to one that assisted over 5,000 undergraduate and graduate students throughout New York state, China and Vietnam. This was accomplished by using various service-delivery formats to achieve the desired goals.

91¿ì²¥-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., 91¿ì²¥-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 91¿ì²¥-Webb.edu.

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By Isabella Brown, ’24, Intern for University Communications

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Through an internship with OrthoCarolina in Shelby, N.C., 91¿ì²¥-Webb University senior Kyla Pascucci, ’25, gained a unique opportunity to use her knowledge and skills within the medical field. Pascucci is a biology major with a concentration in biomedical science.

Before her internship, Pascucci had been a patient at OrthoCarolina and was already familiar with their exceptional care. She was playing lacrosse when her hip started to cause her pain. As her symptoms became worse over the next few weeks, she made an appointment at OrthCarolina. There, Physician Assistant (PA) and 91¿ì²¥-Webb alumnus, Walt Rumfelt, worked quickly to assess Pascucci’s situation and provide her with referrals and treatments to improve her mobility.

Rumfelt graduated from 91¿ì²¥-Webb with Bachelor of Science and a master’s in physical education from 91¿ì²¥-Webb. He earned his master’s in Physician Assistant Studies at Chatham University.

Pascucci shared how Rumfelt helped her recover from her injury. After seeing an impingement and labral tear on a MRI, Rumfelt referred her to a hip specialist who gave her a few treatment choices. Through the long journey of surgery and recovery, Pascucci expressed that she couldn’t have done it without the help of the doctors at OrthoCarolina.

The impact of their care remains with her to this day. “I know they have patients’ best interests in mind and they care about what they are doing,â€� said Pascucci.

As an intern, Pascucci gave back to patients through the place that is close to her heart. She shadowed Rumfelt, who took the time to explain to her the conditions of the patients they saw and possible treatments for them.

“The most meaningful part of this experience was the real-world exposure of medical conditions,� she noted. “As someone who is looking to go into the medical field, this experience helped me decide if it is something I could see myself doing in the future.�

Because she was involved in hands-on experience, Pascucci was inspired to continue learning more about how the human body works and how to better care for it. “Working in the medical field has always been an interest to me, and specifically orthopedics, because it just fascinates me how intricate the body is and how just one little issue can cascade into much larger ones,� she shared. “In the future, I want to be able to provide the relief that Walt does for his patients, as well as help athletes like myself get back to the sport they love.�

Isabella Brown is a senior English major.

91¿ì²¥-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., 91¿ì²¥-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 91¿ì²¥-Webb.edu.

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