Awards Archives - è��ͷ�� University

è��ͷ�� Students Compete in Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) State Conference

Office of University Communications — Wed, 15 Apr 2026 18:00:25 +0000

Finance Team Qualifies for Nationals and Business Student Places in Accounting

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Students from Gardner‑Webb University’s Godbold College of Business recently earned top honors at the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) State Leadership Conference in Charlotte, N.C. A four-member finance team secured first place in the highly competitive Finance Case competition, earning a spot at the national conference this summer. In addition to the team victory, a freshman business student also placed in the accounting competition.

The students worked under the guidance of faculty advisors, Dr. RJ Quillinan, assistant professor of business law, and Dr. Angelina Smith, assistant professor of business.

Dr. RJ Quillinan

The Gardner‑Webb finance team included Will Brooks of Earl, N.C., Demarqus Little of High Point, N.C., Kadeyn Marshall of Shelby, N.C., and William Stevenson of Durham, N.C. They outperformed 12 other teams to claim the title and advance to the FBLA National Leadership Conference scheduled for June in Las Vegas, Nev.

“The students spent hours pouring into the competition,” Quillinan praised. “They prepared with a strong focus on providing analytical feedback to the judges, coupled with a presentation style that was smooth, personable, and consistent with the standards set forth within the Godbold College of Business.”

In individual competition, Alaena Locklear of Lawndale, N.C., placed sixth in Foundations of Accounting. The conference was a first for Locklear, and she’s already planning to attend next year.

“The comprehensive test I took contained questions about the basics and mechanics of financial statements, from what accounts belong on the Balance sheet to how the Statement of Cash Flows works,” she recalled. “Preparation for the competition was a lot of coordination between myself and Dr. Smith, who guided me through the process. I took some time to study over what I’ve learned in my accounting classes so far, and I found a lot of that material relevant to what was on the test.”

Locklear added, “I am very proud of everyone who participated. The Godbold College of Business has been instrumental in all of our successes, and I’d like to especially thank Drs. (Amber) Daniels, Smith, and Quillinan.”

Quillinan emphasized that FBLA plays a central role in bridging classroom learning with professional preparation. “On campus, FBLA may be referred to as a ‘club,’ but it is more than that. It is an educational, co‑curricular, academic program that allows for project‑based learning set in a competitive environment,” he noted. “In the case of the Finance Case competition, it helped students hone soft skills that we strive to provide in the Godbold College of Business, alongside the analytical and complex financial requirements to answer the question(s) posed.”

Marshall, a sophomore economics and finance major, explained the team’s preparation strategy. “It was teamwork—everyone on our team had their roles,” he shared. Outlining each member’s contribution, Marshall explained that he compiled the data, Brooks was the manager, Stevenson created the presentation and speech, and Little handled investment and money management.

He said the experience proved their abilities to succeed in a real-world scenario. He concluded, “It feels amazing; it makes our long nights and late work hours worth it.”

The FBLA Finance Team: from left, Will Stevenson, Demarqus Little, Will Brooks, and Kadeyn Marshall

Stevenson, a junior economics and finance major, said the case required students to act as financial advisors for a marketing analyst. “We managed his investments, set up bank accounts, made decisions for his day-to-day life, and saved for a down payment on a house,” he described.

Echoing Marshall’s assessment, Stevenson said, “The greatest skill was teamwork and encouragement. We all played different roles and when we needed help, we all pitched in.”

Quillinan added that the students did most of the preparation on their own. He and Smith helped them refine their presentation skills. He stated, “We pointed out what may serve as differentiators against their competition: strength with the facts, providing more depth of analysis, and treating the presentation as a performance worthy of choreography and a personal touch.”

Stevenson summed up the experience as strengthening his financial knowledge and professional outlook. “This competition will look great on my resume and gives me a chance to network and meet young professionals,” he said. “This group helped me grow my financial literacy.”

Quillinan commended the students’ dedication and teamwork. “It was a lot of fun seeing these four come together, learn from one another, and use each team members’ strengths to ultimately win the competition,” he reflected. “I am proud to have been a coach to these four and look forward to doing so again, and again—if they let me.”

è��ͷ�� 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., è��ͷ�� 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 .

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Gardner‑Webb Ethics Bowl Team Earns Three Wins at 15th Annual Statewide Event

Office of University Communications — Mon, 02 Mar 2026 17:30:18 +0000

Students Apply University Values to Real‑World Ethical Dilemmas at North Carolina Independent Colleges and Universities (NCICU) Competition

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Gardner‑Webb University’s Ethics Bowl team delivered a standout performance at the 15th Annual North Carolina Independent Colleges and Universities (NCICU) Ethics Bowl. They earned three victories in four rounds while showcasing disciplined preparation and mission‑centered ethical reasoning.

The event brought together 17 student teams for two days of arguments, and resulted in a historic victory for Johnson C. Smith University as the first Historically Black College/University (HBCU) to prevail as champion. The competition centered on the theme, “Ethics in Leadership,” and the GWU students argued their positions on the topics of corporate responsibility, Olympics, atomic bomb, and funding for public schools.

è��ͷ��’s six-member team is advised by Dr. Anna Sieges‑Beal, associate professor in the Department of Religious Studies and Philosophy, and Dr. Shea Stuart, professor of English. “We represented GWU well as our ethical framework is based on the University’s motto ‘pro Deo et Humanitate,’” Sieges-Beal stated. “We evaluate ethical situations according to the principles of life, goodness, justice, and truth telling.”

The team was also supported by Kalem Griffin, a 2025 alumnus from Thomasville, N.C., who competed last year. A graduate student in è��ͷ��’s Master of Sport Management program, he provided valuable insight and support to the team throughout the competition. Between rounds, Griffin encouraged the team to remain confident, keep their presentation direct, and stay positive. “It was fascinating to be introduced to this year’s Ethics and Leadership cases at the Ethics Bowl for the first time, and I was highly impressed by how the team had prepared for and handled them,” Griffin praised. “As always, our team was exceptional, consistently showing noticeable growth and improvement through each round, and generally being one of the best-performing teams in the entire event.”

è��ͷ�� began preparing for the event in October 2024 by researching nine cases. They don’t find out the topics they will be arguing until the competition. They faced students from William Peace University, Montreat College, Salem College and the University of Mount Olive.

Junior Maeve McGinley commented on how rewarding it was to see all the months of preparation come together in real time. “Even when I was nervous, I felt proud of how our team approached cases with humility and intellectual honesty rather than just trying to win,” she said. “I appreciated how we sharpened one another’s arguments, challenged each other respectfully, and built responses that were stronger because they were communal. It also built a real sense of camaraderie.”

Alaena Locklear, a sophomore, said being at the actual competition was a relief after spending so much time working on the cases. “The nerves settled after the first round, and as a team, our concentration shifted to improving after every debate and strengthening our weak points,” she noted. “I think the best part of being on the team was how strong our teamwork was. Every judge we talked to said wonderful things about how well we worked together, and it really came through in the debates we won.”

Junior Hodges McCathern agreed with his teammate. “It was great to be surrounded by such talented and intelligent people; they make things easy,” he asserted. “Great teams have confidence in each other, know their roles to play, and trust that each person will do their job. I know that I have five teammates I can confidently say are capable of tackling any challenge they may face. I am very thankful for this experience these past two years.”

Issa Cogdell, also a junior, has enjoyed participating in debate competitions since high school. “It was amazing to compete after all the preparation, because you’re able to practice your stance and defend it in real time,” he said. “The best part of being on the team is seeing everyone’s individual strengths shine throughout the preparation period and during the Ethics Bowl itself.”

Initially, sophomore Sophie Boss didn’t know what the commitment involved, but she embraced the opportunity and found the experience deeply rewarding. “It was unlike anything I had ever done before—such an amazing experience that I would definitely do it again,” Boss affirmed. “The most beneficial thing I learned from this event was how important public speaking skills are, as well as how ethics are part of everyday life more than we think. Every conversation can be an ethical conversation, and it is cool to see things from a new perspective now. I would recommend this to everyone to get out of their comfort zone and participate in something like this that will stretch their minds. “

Brock Nikkari, a senior, competed for the second year in a row. “The best part of being on the team is spending time with my friends and representing Gardner‑Webb University,” Nikkari stated. “The most beneficial thing I learned was how to convey my thoughts in a professional and orderly manner. I have found the Ethics Bowl has greatly helped my public speaking skills.”

The team’s accomplishment highlights the depth of talent at è��ͷ�� and underscores the value of experiential learning and the power of teamwork. McGinley summed up the lasting impact of the opportunity. “Ethics Bowl requires you to make a clear claim, defend it with reasoning, and respond to critiques without becoming defensive,” she observed. “I learned how important it is to listen carefully, acknowledge strong points from opposing teams, and refine my thinking on the spot. That skill feels incredibly transferable to both academic work and future vocational settings.”

Team Roster

Maeve McGinley — Chapin, S.C., psychology and Christian studies with a concentration in discipleship.
Alaena Locklear — Lawndale, N.C., accounting.
Hodges McCathern — Lexington, S.C., biochemistry.
Issa Cogdell — Winston‑Salem, N.C., computer science.
Sophie Boss — Melbourne, Fla., elementary education.
Brock Nikkari — Milton, Fla., Christian studies with a concentration in biblical studies.

Ethics Bowl Sponsors

The success of the 2026 Ethics Bowl was made possible by the Independent College Fund of North Carolina (ICFNC), the fundraising arm of NCICU, which raised almost $80,000 in sponsorships. Gardner‑Webb’s 2026 team participation was made possible in part by sponsorship from Fortinet and NFP.

Other sponsors included: Aramark, BHDP, The Budd Group, Coca-Cola Consolidated, Cherry Bekaert, The Council of Independent Colleges, CPL, Duke Energy, French Broad Electric, Guilford College Center for Principled Problem Solving, Huntington National Bank, IMA Financial Group, Jesse and Kay McCartney, Mt. Olive Pickle Company, Old North State Trust, Piedmont Natural Gas Foundation, Liz and Steven Riley, Sageview, Truist Bank, A. Hope Williams, and the Wren Foundation.

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è��ͷ�� Doctor of Nursing Practice Student, Dr. Brittany Hudgins‑Graham, Recognized as National Emerging Leader

Office of University Communications — Wed, 25 Feb 2026 14:36:18 +0000

Her Strong Professional Qualities, Innovation, and Collaborative Spirit Earn Prestigious Honor

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Inspired by her grandfather’s battle with cancer and a desire to love and serve people, Dr. Brittany N. Hudgins-Graham pursued a career in nursing. Her calling eventually led her to teach future nurses. A graduate student in è��ͷ�� University’s Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program, she has received a national honor. Because of her strong professional qualities, innovation, and collaborative spirit, Hudgins-Graham was recognized as an Emerging Leader by The American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) Graduate Nursing Student Academy (GNSA).

This organization supports graduate nursing students by promoting leadership development, professional engagement, and networking. It provides resources and opportunities that help prepare graduate students to lead, advance nursing education, and promote evidence-based practice. Emerging Leaders are nominated by their peers and recognized once a month in the .

“This recognition affirms the work I am passionate about—supporting students, contributing to the profession beyond the classroom, and engaging in kingdom work,” Hudgins-Graham noted. “It is both humbling and motivating, which encourages me to continue growing as a leader and remain open to opportunities that advance the nursing profession. Receiving this award is a tremendous honor and reflects the supportive academic community at è��ͷ�� that fosters leadership, service, and excellence in nursing for God and humanity. To God be the Glory! Lamentations 3:25-26: ‘The Lord is good to those whose hope is in him, to the one who seeks him; it is good to wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord.’””

Hudgins-Graham has more than 12 years of bedside nursing experience and nearly a decade in nursing education. “Throughout my clinical practice, I found myself naturally drawn to teaching—supporting new nurses, precepting prelicensure students, and helping others build confidence in their critical thinking and clinical judgment,” she reflected. “That passion ultimately led me into academia, where I could impact not only individual patients, but also the future of nursing.

She started teaching in 2014 and earned her Master of Science in Nursing (2015) and her Doctor of Education (2018) from è��ͷ�� University. She is an assistant professor of nursing at Western Carolina University in Cullowhee, N.C., and will graduate in May from è��ͷ��’s DNP program.

“I believe God called me to pursue my DNP to become a nurse practitioner, so I can better advocate for students and patients through evidence-based and holistic care,” she stated. “What I value most about the DNP program at è��ͷ�� University is its strong emphasis on Christian education, leadership development, evidence-based practice, and real-world application. The faculty have been nothing short of stellar in supporting both my peers and me, particularly in scholarly inquiry and the practical application of becoming a nurse practitioner.”

She continued, “Upon completion of the program, I plan to practice as a Family Nurse Practitioner while continuing my work in academic nursing, intentionally bridging clinical practice, education, and scholarship to advance patient-centered care and prepare future nurses for leadership in a rapidly evolving healthcare system.”

Hudgins-Graham has integrated DNP concepts, such as quality improvement, evidence-based practice, pathophysiology, pharmacology, physical assessment, and didactic theory to both her current role as a nurse educator and future role as a nurse practitioner. “For example, I used current literature, holistic health principles, and quality improvement methodologies to design, implement, and evaluate my evidence-based practice project on forest bathing for mental balance within a Christian community,” she explained.

Forest bathing, also called forest therapy, is a practice where a person sits in nature and soaks in their surroundings. Her project evaluated the approach as an evidence-based, holistic intervention to reduce perceived stress and anxiety to improve psychological well-being. “As mental health concerns continue to rise, this project explored nature-based therapy as a low-cost, accessible, and preventive strategy to support mental health,” Hudgins-Graham observed. “Current literature consistently demonstrates that immersive time in nature is associated with reductions in cortisol levels, blood pressure, anxiety, and depressive symptoms, along with improvements in mood, attention, and emotional regulation.”

Hudgins-Graham said early responses to the project suggested meaningful improvements in stress perception and overall sense of calm, supporting its potential integration into preventive and primary care practice.

“I am deeply thankful for the support and mentorship I have received through è��ͷ�� University,” she concluded. “The encouragement from faculty, two of my closest cohort peers, and the unwavering support of my daughter, Julieanna, my husband, Rusty, family, friends, church family, preceptors, and colleagues has played a significant role in my personal and professional growth.”

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Championing Music at è��ͷ�� University

Office of University Communications — Thu, 12 Feb 2026 13:26:14 +0000

Dr. Aaron Rice: The GWU Department of Music—The North Carolina Destination

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—è��ͷ�� University’s Department of Music is experiencing a season of bold growth and vision under the leadership of Dr. Aaron Rice, associate professor and department chair. Since arriving in 2022, Rice has helped boost enrollment by 30 percent and expanded student opportunities across North Carolina and beyond.

In recognition of his efforts, Rice has been named the recipient of the 2025–2026 Rising Star Award, an honor given by the Faculty Development of Instruction and Improvement Committee. The award recognizes emerging excellence in teaching, leadership and scholarship.

“I’m incredibly honored and grateful,” Rice reflected. “It encourages me to continue to invest and do all the things that I love. We want to be the strongest music unit at a Christian institution within North Carolina.”

A native of Gastonia, N.C., Rice felt a calling to ministry early in life and initially focused on contemporary worship music. But his love for choral music was rekindled during college, leading him to pursue graduate work at East Carolina University and Southwestern Seminary.

Rice’s leadership has already made a regional impact. è��ͷ��’s choral workshops have grown to include elementary school students, giving young musicians access to college-level instruction and performance experiences. University ensembles have performed at the North Carolina Choral Directors Association conference and Charlotte’s Thanksgiving Eve Parade.

“Seventy percent of our students are from within a 100-mile radius,” he said. “I think we’re strategically positioned to have an outsized impact on Gaston, Lincoln, Cleveland, Rutherford, Caldwell, Catawba—all those counties. We’re ready to do it, and we are doing it.”

Rice is also preparing students for national and international opportunities. He helped lead a performance trip to France in 2024 and is raising funds for a 2027 trip to New Orleans. He has helped secure resources to open a digital piano lab and to fund research to support future church musicians.

“Honestly, I want to make sure the things that we’re doing are great,” he said. “We want to see our ensembles performing at conferences. As we continue to get better and better students, we’re watching them grow and thrive and do well. We’re going to see them end up performing on these big stages. As soon as they graduate, we want to make sure that these students are No. 1, getting placed, and then they’re out there, crushing it. We want to see them doing exceedingly well.”

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As the Super Bowl Approaches, GWU Alumni Coaches Reflect on Building Champions

Office of University Communications — Tue, 03 Feb 2026 19:18:45 +0000

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—As football fans prepare for this weekend’s Super Bowl, the nation’s attention turns to the traits that elevate good teams into great ones—leadership, chemistry, resilience, and a commitment to collective success. Those same qualities, often celebrated on the NFL’s biggest stage, have also defined three North Carolina high school programs that captured state championships this season. Remarkably, all three teams are led by Gardner‑Webb University alumni, whose coaching philosophies trace back to lessons learned long before their own players ever take the field.

These coaches—Greg Lloyd, ’02, of Crest High School; Mike Wilbanks, ’98, of Shelby High School, and Darryl Brown, ’00, of Grimsley High School—represent three different classifications in the North Carolina High School Athletic Association (NCHSAA), an organization of 447 member schools. Despite distinct team cultures and competitive landscapes, each coach emphasizes a shared foundation: championship seasons are built not only on talent, but on trust and personal growth.

Mike Wilbanks: Leadership and Chemistry

Wilbanks has led the Shelby Golden Lions since 2019 and works alongside several fellow GWU alumni on his staff: Chris Emery, ’98; Jamie Dunaway, ’13; Dobson Collins, ’08; and current GWU student, Sam Baldree. He attributes his team’s title run to two essential ingredients. “The senior leadership on this team was phenomenal. Their work ethic and commitment to excellence really permeated the entire team,” he said. “Secondly, our team chemistry was great.”

Team unity wasn’t accidental. Wilbanks prioritized opportunities for players to bond off the field through cookouts, fishing trips, cornhole games, and other informal gatherings.

His coaching philosophy is rooted in lessons from his time at Gardner‑Webb with Coach Woody Fish. Wilbanks, a former three‑year offensive line starter, said Fish instilled preparation and discipline into the team. “I learned that a successful season doesn’t just happen in August,” he said. “It starts in January with offseason lifting and conditioning… summer camp to prepare… and a weekly routine once the season starts.”

Darryl Brown: Resilience and Grit

Brown, head coach since 2016 of the Grimsley Whirlies in Greensboro, N.C., emphasizes resilience as the defining trait of his championship team. Early adversity threatened to derail the season when the starting quarterback was sidelined by an injury. Still, Brown watched his players rise to the moment. “We had a group of players that were very resilient,” he affirmed. “Each week, we had different players stepping up and making plays. This entire season was a complete effort by every player and coach.”

Brown noted that Gardner‑Webb baseball coach Clyde Miller taught him the importance of teamwork. “Every player has a role, and whatever your role happens to be, it is extremely important to the success of the team,” he said.

The lessons extended beyond the field. Brown remembers Dr. Dee Hunt as a crucial mentor who helped guide him through significant academic and personal decisions. He still cherishes the relationships he formed at Gardner‑Webb, many of which continue today.

Greg Lloyd: Experience and Tradition

Greg Lloyd led Crest to its seventh state title—and first in a decade—before retiring in 2025. Experience was the deciding factor in his team. “We had a lot of players back from the previous season who had played a lot,” he explained. “We played a lot of seniors this year… Crest has a lot of tradition, so the players feel that, and those high expectations keep them motivated.”

Lloyd, also a former baseball player under Miller, said he carried the same emphasis on relationships into his own career. “I take pride in building relationships with my students and players… and I really believe that’s why I have been successful,” he said. “A lot of that foundation came at Gardner‑Webb.”

Like Brown, he remembers the support of Hunt and said her mentorship helped him persist through challenges in college. “If it wasn’t for Dr. Dee Hunt—she took a lot of time with me and helped me—and we made it,” Lloyd affirmed. “So, I was very thankful.”

A Shared Foundation

Though their teams compete in different classifications and face unique pressures, Lloyd, Wilbanks, and Brown remain connected by their Gardner‑Webb roots. Their experiences reflect a common message: mentorship, perseverance, and strong relationships shape not only championship seasons but the lives of the students they lead.

Sources: High School OT and High School Football America

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è��ͷ�� Alumna Erica McCray Recognized for Innovation and Data-Driven Instruction

Office of University Communications — Thu, 29 Jan 2026 21:16:50 +0000

Milken Honors School Principal for Advancing Project-Based Learning and Shaping Future-Ready Students

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—When è��ͷ�� University alumna Erica McCray received the Milken Educator Award, she was totally caught off guard. Principals and teachers don’t apply for the award; they don’t even know who recommended them or that they are being considered.

“From my understanding the nomination is placed before a panel of individuals and the decision is made that way,” she explained. “So, there’s a mystery behind it. Everything was a surprise.”

She received the award during a school assembly that she thought was to celebrate the student’s test scores. When the presenter started to describe an award recipient, McCray was trying to remember who she had nominated for an award. She was shocked to hear her name called and even more astonished to learn of a $25,000 cash prize for her personal use.

McCray is in her seventh year as principal of Riverwalk Academy in Rock Hill, S.C., which serves students in kindergarten through 12th grade. She joined the charter school as a teacher when it opened in 2014 and later moved into the literacy coach role. She holds a Master of Education degree from the University of Phoenix. As she began considering a transition into school administration, she decided to enroll in Gardner‑Webb’s online Master of Educational Leadership program.

“The experience itself was very helpful,” McCray shared. “It worked well with my schedule. It was well thought out and meaningful. I was able to take what I was doing and apply it back to my work. è��ͷ�� really gave me an opportunity to see a lot of the behind-the-scenes part—the importance of the data collection piece and then being able to take that data and make the decisions to best support the school.”

Riverwalk prioritizes Project-Based Learning (PBL), and McCray’s leadership in this area is one of the reasons she received the Milken award. Students take ownership of their learning and participate in practical community-centered projects. She explained that the fourth-grade team is working on the question, “How do the daily tasks of humans impact animals and their habitats?”

Based on their research, students will design and implement solutions to address the issue. During the inquiry, investigation, and development process, they learn essential competencies embedded in South Carolina’s academic standards. Each year, students add to what they have accomplished previously. “So, it’s really, ‘What can we do to have a lasting impact in our community?’” McCray emphasized.

Ellen Weaver, S.C. Superintendent of Education, left, congratulates
Erica McCray on winning the Milken Award.

McCray was also honored for empowering teachers to utilize real-time student data to drive instruction, monitor progress, and work with students in targeted small groups. She mentors colleagues, provides professional development, visits classrooms daily, and provides constructive feedback. Leading by example, McCray took a graduate class alongside several teachers for PBL training.

“We are very student-centered,” McCray noted. “We don’t just see students as a group. My teachers and I, we are talking about each individual student.”

Her leadership efforts contributed to increasing and maintaining a high teacher retention rate. She has presented on school culture improvement strategies at the South Carolina Department of Education’s Collective Leadership Institute. Riverwalk also received the Palmetto Silver Award in 2023-24 after McCray and a team of teachers reimagined grade-level writing expectations and benchmarks.

Through Milken’s program, McCray will have the opportunity to work with other Milken award winners from South Carolina. She met with them briefly, and they told her about working with North Carolina honorees to offer professional development opportunities to teachers. She will learn more about the program in June when she attends the award ceremony in Washington, D.C. She will also receive her $25,000 cash prize then. “I haven’t decided yet how I’m going to spend it,” McCray stated. “This recognition means so much, and I am grateful for my students, colleagues, and community who inspire me every day.”

About Milken Educator Awards

The Milken Educator Awards represent the nation’s preeminent teacher recognition program, often hailed as the “Oscars of Teaching.” This season will reach more than $76 million in individual cash prizes since the Awards’ first presentation in 1987 and over $146 million invested in the Milken Educator Award national network overall, empowering recipients to broaden their impact and encouraging young, capable people to consider a career in education. Learn more .

About è��ͷ��

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è��ͷ�� Alumna Kim Rivera Realizes Longtime Goal with USTA National Victory

Office of University Communications — Wed, 03 Dec 2025 16:37:33 +0000

University Tennis Pioneer Celebrates a Career Highlight After Decades of Dedication to the Sport

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Kim Rivera, a 1984 alumna of è��ͷ�� University, recently achieved a goal she’s been striving for since high school. She is a member of the Rock Hill, S.C., team that won a United States Tennis Association (USTA) National Championship. Competing against 16,160 women and 1,131 teams from across the country, they claimed the 55+ 7.0 Women’s Doubles Team title.

Rivera’s team earned its way to the top by winning both the local championship in April and the South Carolina state championship in May. These victories qualified them for the USTA Southern Sectionals in Auburn, Ala., in June, where they played against teams from 13 southern states and claimed the sectional title. The next stop was the USTA National Tournament in Scottsdale, Ariz., (Oct. 31-Nov. 2) along with competitors from 17 states.

In the finals, Rivera’s team secured a victory over Seattle, Wash. The championship was ultimately decided by a 10-point tiebreak played by Rivera and her partner. “Upon winning the USTA national tournament, I was genuinely honored and excited by our team’s achievement,” Rivera reflected. “Securing the South Carolina state title, the Southern sectional title, and the USTA National title is a significant accomplishment, especially at age 63, as it represents the fulfillment of a long-time goal and dream. This success was only possible through teamwork, dedication to preparation and strategy, and consistent effort from all members to perform at their highest level. It truly was the highlight of my tennis career!”

Rivera, who initiated the development of the è��ͷ�� women’s tennis program in 1980, picked up her first tennis racquet 50 years ago because school was out for summer and she was looking for something to do. “We had tennis courts in my neighborhood in Mt. Holly,” Rivera reflected. “A girlfriend and I decided to try playing one day when we were bored and loved it! I played in a local youth tournament and won. I was hooked.”

The USTA Adult 55 and Over 7.0 League National Champions, from left, are Lisa Pacello, Donna Musante, Kim Rivera, Sharon Wooten, Ofeli Claxton, Dominique Oldre, Michele Ovendorf, Erin Bloomberg, and Patty Mullins.

Kim Rivera played on the first GWU women’s
tennis team from 1980 to 1984.

She loved the game so much that at her Gaston County, N.C., high school, she played on the men’s team, because there wasn’t a women’s team. When she came to è��ͷ��, she talked to the athletic director at the time, Dan Moore, about starting a women’s team. Soon after, the first GWU women’s tennis team was formed, coached by Pat Wilkinson. They had a winning record all four years that Rivera was at è��ͷ��.

After college, Rivera continued to play with USTA in Charlotte and won several local tournaments. “I’ve competed on numerous USTA teams and traveled to state tournaments across North Carolina and South Carolina,” she shared. “However, qualifying for this recent national tournament was a first for me; reaching that level is especially challenging because it requires working as part of a team rather than competing individually.”

For the past two years, Rivera has coached the South Point High School girls’ tennis team. “It’s a joy to help young ladies become better players, learn good sportsmanship, and be the best they can be off, and on the court,” she affirmed. “My goal is to motivate future athletes and show them that tennis can be a lifelong fun sport.”

Rivera said there are several reasons why she has continued to play the game and to coach. “It’s excellent exercise, presents both challenges and enjoyment, and I appreciate the camaraderie among the women in the community,” she noted. “I’m also grateful for the good health that allows me to continue competing at a high level.”

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Alpha Sigma Lambda Honors è��ͷ��’s Outstanding Adult Scholars

Office of University Communications — Wed, 19 Nov 2025 19:17:24 +0000

Induction Ceremony Recognizes 17 Students for Academic Excellence, Integrity, and Leadership

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—è��ͷ�� University’s Gamma Beta Upsilon Chapter of Alpha Sigma Lambda Honor Society recently inducted 17 students. They were honored for their academic achievements, excellent character, and civic responsibility. Dr. Wendy Athens, director of Academic Innovation and Digital Learning and Chapter Councilor, led the ceremony. è��ͷ�� senior Peter Moore provided music for the program.

Alumna and Alpha Sigma Lambda Recipient Amy S. Giles
was the featured speaker.

The featured speaker was Amy S. Giles, a è��ͷ�� alumna and Alpha Sigma Lambda recipient. She graduated in May 2025 with her bachelor’s degree in elementary education. She is a second-grade teacher at H.H. Beam Elementary School in Gastonia, N.C. She shared about her academic journey and career, and offered advice to the inductees.

Dr. Erin Cook, assistant professor and chair of the Department of Public Service, led in the Alpha Sigma Lambda ritual. She explained the meaning of the Greek letters, which form the honor society’s motto, “First in Scholarship and Leadership.”

The Alpha Sigma Lambda National Honor Society was established in 1946 to honor superior scholarship and leadership in adult students. It is not only the oldest, but also the largest chapter-based honor society for full and part-time adult students. Today, with chapters at over 250 colleges and universities throughout the United States, Alpha Sigma Lambda recognizes the special achievements of adult students who accomplish academic excellence while facing competing interests of family, work, and community.

For non-traditional students, the Society stands as an inspiration for continued scholastic growth, a builder of pride through recognition and an invitation to associate with similarly motivated students. For the chapter institution, the Society serves as a vehicle for imparting appreciation for adult students’ academic achievements and contributions.

New members were pinned by their faculty sponsors.

After each new member was introduced and pinned by their faculty sponsor, Assistant Provost Dr. Greg Pillar congratulated the students and commended their dedication and perseverance. “Your induction tells the world that your excellence is not accidental,” he stated. “It is the result of effort—sustained, repeated, often silent effort, over long stretches of time.”

Pillar also challenged the students to lead with integrity and curiosity. “Carry forward the habits and character that brought you here,” he encouraged. “Let your curiosity stay alive. Let your humility grow deeper. Let your example continue to illuminate possibilities for others. And continue doing the quiet work that excellence requires, because those daily choices, those steady, small, persistent acts, are what shape a life of purpose and possibility.”

Honorary Members

Faculty and staff who support and foster the academic success of adult learners were recognized as honorary members. These included:

Dr. Jessica Ivey, director of Hunt School of Nursing.
Dr. Anita Sanders, Assistant Professor, College of Education.
Casey Stafford, Senior Success Coach.

New Alpha Sigma Lambda Members Inducted During the Ceremony and their sponsors

Melissa Huss Crespo, of Cherryville, N.C., accounting, Dr. Angelina Smith.
Margaret Davis, of Gastonia, N.C., Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Jennifer Costello.
Ashley Frazier, of Wilkesboro, N.C., elementary education, Dr. Anita Sanders.
Peyton Margaret Hall, of Shelby, N.C., Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Nicole Beaver.
Erlinda Hernandez Valdovinos, of Charlotte, birth to kindergarten, Dr. Anita Sanders.
Kristi Houston, of Lawndale, N.C., Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Nicole Beaver.
Hannah M. Orr, of Shelby, N.C., Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Dr. Jessica Ivey.
Brittany Taylor Parker, of Gastonia, N.C., RN-BSN, Jennifer Costello.

Members Inducted in Absentia

Victoria Biester, of Harrisburg, N.C., cybersecurity.
Courtney J. Bustamante, of Inman, S.C., Bachelor of Science in Nursing.
Lovern Y. Eastman, of Charlotte, N.C., Bachelor of Science in Nursing.
Sylvia J. Ford, of Gastonia, N.C., Bachelor of Science in Nursing.
Misty Gentry, of Winston-Salem, elementary education.
Jessica Michelle Greene, of Mooresboro, elementary education.
Kathy Rena C. Jaynes, Newland, N.C., Bachelor of Science in Nursing.
Morgan Shew, of Lenoir, N.C., Human Services.
Brett Charles White, of Rutherfordton, N.C., Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing.

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è��ͷ�� University Student Wins Research Award at N.C. Honors Conference

Office of University Communications — Tue, 11 Nov 2025 20:06:33 +0000

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Emmy Bowen, of Boiling Springs, is in her first year at è��ͷ�� University, attended her first N.C. Honors Association (NCHA) conference, and won her first award. She received third place and $125 for her research poster presentation on “Social Effects of an Absent Father after Divorce.”

Emmy Bowen

Bowen’s research examined the psychological and sociological effects of having an absent father. “I compared research on death and divorce and how it affected teenagers from ages 14 to 19 years of age,” she explained. “When doing this research, I found that almost 30% of the teenagers that lost a father or mother suffered from schizophrenia and most often would show anxiety, depression, and sleep deprivation.”

Participating in the conference sharpened her public speaking and communication skills. “I loved this experience, because each student showed a different point of view on various different research topics,” Bowen related.

She also thanked Dr. Wilson Hawkins, director of the University Honors Program, for his leadership and for giving her the opportunity to present her research. “Honors is a great opportunity, and it pushes me out of my comfort zone,” Bowen said. “Being a part of Honors allows you to make connections with different people, including professors from many different universities in North Carolina, which is great for graduate school.”

Although it’s her first year as a student at è��ͷ��, Bowen is a junior double major in sociology and psychology. She earned multiple college credits in her high school’s dual enrollment program. Her goal is to become a counselor for teenagers and older adults. “I would love to make this a career because so many young adults are suffering from many different psychological problems like depression, and I want them to be able to have the resources they need to be successful,” she shared.

Learn more about the University Honors program.

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Wall of Fame Ceremony to Honor Cleveland County’s Basketball Legends

Office of University Communications — Thu, 23 Oct 2025 13:11:57 +0000

Event on Nov. 8 at è��ͷ�� to Recognize 50 Players, Along with Coaches and Officials; Acclaimed Florida Coach Leonard Hamilton is Keynote Speaker

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—è��ͷ�� University is pleased to host the Wall of Fame ceremony on Nov. 8 in Tucker Student Center. The ceremony—sponsored by the Alumni Basketball Association and the Cleveland County Business Development Center—will honor the 50 greatest players of Cleveland County from 1965-1999. Legendary coaches and game officials will also be recognized.

Leonard Hamilton

Acclaimed former Florida State University head basketball coach Leonard Hamilton will serve as the keynote speaker for this prestigious event. Hamilton is a native of Gastonia, N.C., and a former collegiate player at Gaston College and UT Martin. His remarkable 33-year career as a collegiate head coach cemented his legacy as a program builder. He is the winningest coach in Florida State history, having led the Seminoles to 16 postseason appearances during his tenure. He is also the first coach to be named Coach of the Year in both the Big East and the Atlantic Coast Conference, earning the prestigious award five times combined. His teams advanced to the NCAA Tournament’s Sweet 16 on four occasions and the Elite Eight once.

“We are incredibly honored to have Coach Hamilton as our keynote speaker,” said Richard Hooker, Executive Director from the Cleveland County Business Development Center.

Dennis Toms, CEO for the Alumni Basketball Association, added, “His deep roots in the game and his reputation for integrity and excellence make him the perfect person to inspire and celebrate the legends who will be inducted into the Wall of Fame. He truly embodies the spirit of dedication and success that we are honoring.”

This tribute reflects not only individual greatness but also the collective legacy of how Cleveland County has produced athletes whose influence extended far beyond the court. It is a celebration of community, perseverance, and the power of sports to build lasting legacies.

The Wall of Fame will be housed at the Clarence M. Palmer Center (Holly Oak Park) in Shelby, serving as a community landmark where residents and visitors alike can honor the town’s deep basketball heritage.

Event proceeds will benefit scholarship and mentorship programs for local youth, as well as planning and development for honoring women next year.

Of the 50 honorees, seven of them have ties to è��ͷ�� athletics. That list includes:

Burton

Peeler

Borders

Lovelace

Adams

Holbrook

Brewton

Tee Burton: GWU Golf Coach; former basketball standout at Crest High School.
Coach Ed Peeler: GWU Alumnus, Crest High Boys’ Basketball Coach for 29 seasons, compiling a 562-362 record.
John Borders II: Burns Class of 1975, All-Conference, All-Tournament, and MVP honors; played at è��ͷ�� for two seasons.
Freddie Lovelace: Burns Class of 1994, led the team to its first-ever regular season Southwestern Conference Championship; received scholarship to è��ͷ��.
George Adams: Kings Mountain Class of 1968, leading scorer in school history; At è��ͷ��, he was a two-time All-American; drafted by the Milwaukee Bucks, played with the San Diego Conquistadors; Awards: Kings Mountain Sports Hall of Fame, GWU Athletics Hall of Fame, Cleveland County Sports Hall of Fame, and nominee for North Carolina Sports Hall of Fame.
Coach Eddie Holbrook: è��ͷ�� Men’s Basketball Coach for 14 years, compiling a 344-67 record. Of his 14 teams, 12 finished with national top-10 rankings. Eight of his players became All-Americans, while five went on to careers in the NBA.
Eric Brewton: A defensive back at è��ͷ�� University, he was a three-time NAIA All-American (1985, 1987, 1988) and four-time All-South Atlantic Conference player, graduating in 1988. His 25 career interceptions remain a school record, and in 1998, he was inducted into the è��ͷ�� Athletics Hall of Fame. After his football playing days ended, Brewton discovered a new passion: basketball officiating. Over nearly three decades, Brewton has officiated more than 3,000 games. In 2001, he was named ACC Basketball Official of the Year. He has worked numerous Final Fours and has been ranked the #1 WNBA Referee for several years—a testament to his consistency, fairness, and command of the game.

Event details and tickets can be found at .

Sanctioned by the City of Shelby, the N.C. High School Athletic Association, The Cleveland County Business Development Center, and è��ͷ�� University

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