Bulldog Club Archives - è��ͷ�� University

è��ͷ�� Bulldog Club Builds Momentum Under New Leadership

Office of University Communications — Wed, 29 Oct 2025 12:36:01 +0000

Director William Glover Highlights Growth, Member Engagement, and Lasting Impact on è��ͷ�� Student-Athletes

William Glover

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—During his first five months as director of è��ͷ�� University Bulldog Club and Sponsorship Programs, William Glover has enthusiastically connected with devoted longtime supporters and warmly welcomed a growing circle of new members into the club.

“I’m excited to share some updates on the growth and impact of the Runnin’ Bulldog community,” Glover related. “The commitment of our Bulldog Club members is profound. The support they show helps improve the experience for GWU student-athletes through scholarships to live out their dreams.”

As è��ͷ�� fall athletic programs are in full swing, the Bulldog Club has made two trips to Eastern Illinois and Lindenwood with the GWU football team. Plus, club members gather for a pre-game meal for every home football game and are invited to watch the game from the Dawg Deck in Spangler Stadium.

Amina Gray

Glover shared, “It’s great to see our members out at the athletic events, whether it’s soccer, tennis, cross country, volleyball, and more. As you know, GWU Basketball is right around the corner. We will have a Bulldog Club section on the baseline for each home game, and I encourage you to come visit with fellow Bulldog Club members.”

Because of the support they give to student-athletes, members of the Bulldog Club have priority access and receive discounts on all season ticket packages. “As a Bulldog Club member, you have a direct impact on each Division 1 team here at GWU,” Glover noted. “Every Bulldog Club member has a hand in each GWU championship.”

A membership in the Bulldog Club helps the University’s nearly 600 student-athletes earn a degree and play a sport they love. Women’s basketball player, #2 Amina Gray, a junior, noted, “The Bulldog Club has made a huge difference for me. Their support through scholarships allows me to be the best student-athlete I can be by letting me focus on my sport along with classes without the financial stress. I’m really grateful for everything they do for student-athletes like me.”

Ryan Kennell

Baseball’s #15 Ryan Kennell, a senior, added his appreciation to donors. “è��ͷ�� has given me an opportunity of a lifetime,” he asserted. “Being able to play Division I baseball while also getting an education was always a dream of mine. This was all made possible by the generous donations made to the Bulldog Club. While we are striving for excellence on the field and in the classroom, we are all grateful for the opportunities that have been given to us.”

Ultimately, the Bulldog Club strengthens the community atmosphere on campus. “We’re not just an organization, we are family,” Glover stressed. “Every gift, membership, and show of support helps our Runnin’ bulldogs compete with passion and purpose.”

He continued, “As we look ahead, I’m focused on growing our membership base and continuing to build a sustainable foundation for all athletic programs here at è��ͷ��. Your membership makes a lasting impact. If you haven’t already, I invite you to join or renew your membership today and spread the word to GWU fans that the time to join the Bulldog Club is �ԴǷ�.”

Join the Bulldog Club here. For more information, call Glover at 704-406-4630.

For updates, game times, and more news on the Runnin’ Bulldogs, visit , or follow @gwusports on Instagram, X and Facebook.

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. Learn more at .

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William Glover Named Director of the è��ͷ�� Bulldog Club

Office of University Communications — Thu, 29 May 2025 17:40:16 +0000

Alumnus will Promote Memberships and Support for the University’s Student-Athletes

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—è��ͷ�� University Interim Vice President of Advancement Karen Bruce has named William Glover, a native of Shelby, N.C., as director of the Bulldog Club and Sponsorship Programs. Glover reports directly to the vice president for Advancement and is responsible for increasing Bulldog Club membership and securing philanthropic gifts from the university’s alumni, friends and corporate partners.

Bruce stated, “We’re so excited to have William step into this role! He brings incredible energy, enthusiasm, and a true love for è��ͷ��. His strong local connections will be a huge asset as he builds relationships and strengthens support for our student-athletes. William’s passion for this community and our programs shines through in everything he does.”

William Glover

Glover recently graduated from è��ͷ�� with his Master of Science in sport management. He has a Bachelor of Science in sport management and a minor in business administration from North Carolina State University.

He values the University’s strong Christian foundation and looks forward to taking on his new responsibilities. “My goal is to increase the Bulldog Club memberships to support students, student-athletes, and alumni,” Glover shared. “I plan to pursue this goal by getting out in the community and building relationships. There is nothing more rewarding than joining the Bulldog Club and seeing how you are a direct impact on many lives at GWU.”

While pursuing his master’s, Glover was a graduate assistant and intern for the GWU men’s basketball team. He provided administrative and academic support to faculty and team members, assisted with course materials and program management, coordinated team activities and supported athletic operations. He also organized team meals for all home games, away games and team events.

Glover developed strong relationships with the players and coaches as he supported various athletic department initiatives. In his new position, he will play a crucial role in supporting è��ͷ��’s student-athletes who compete in 22 NCAA Division-I sports. Glover’s key responsibilities include the management of the Bulldog Club Membership program and the development of strategic sponsorship programs.

For more information about Bulldog Club or My Team, and apply for membership, email bulldogclub@gardner-webb.edu.

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2024 è��ͷ�� Football Kickoff Dinner Set for July 27

Office of University Communications — Tue, 02 Jul 2024 12:45:43 +0000

Bulldog Club and Football Program Welcome Head Coach Cris Reisert, Recognize Senior Players and Celebrate 2002-’03 Championship Teams

Head Football Coach Cris Reisert, left, with GWU
President Dr. William M. Downs

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—è��ͷ�� University Football is preparing to launch its 2024 season with a celebration linking the past, present and future. Along with the Bulldog Club, the football program will host the Second Annual Football Kickoff Dinner at 6 p.m. on Saturday, July 27.

“To kick-off our 2024 season, please join us as we celebrate our current team, in addition to the Big South-winning 2002 and 2003 GW football teams,” New Head Coach Cris Reisert urged. “Both of those teams have played a huge role in building è��ͷ�� football into what it is today.”

The event will be held in the Frank and Flossie Bonner Team Room at Spangler Stadium, 116 Bulldog Circle. Tickets are $40 for individuals, $70 for couples, and $10 for children 12 and younger.

The featured speakers are Reisert and GWU President Dr. William M. Downs.

The evening will recognize the Football Program’s:

Future — Reisert and his coaching staff.
Present — The team’s senior players and back-to-back Big South championships in 2022 and 2023.
“Red & Black Legacy” — A 20-year reunion of the 2002 and 2003 back-to-back conference champs, and previous teams that have helped pave the way to success for GWU’s Football Program.

The season home opener for the Runnin’ Bulldogs is at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 29, under the lights in Spangler Stadium. Season tickets are available now at gwusports.com.

“We are itching to get started on our 2024 season at è��ͷ�� football,” Reisert declared. “Our players and coaches have worked tirelessly all off-season to put a high caliber product on the field, and we can’t wait to showcase it to all of Bulldog Nation.”

For more information about the kickoff dinner, contact Gabby Franklin during regular business hours at (704) 406-2039 or sfranklin2@gardner-webb.edu.

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.

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GWU Alumnus, Two-Time Big South Champion, Creates Endowment

Office of University Communications — Fri, 13 Oct 2023 12:21:19 +0000

C.J. Brown Establishes Legacy Football Endowment to Provide Operations Assistance

C.J. Brown, No. 57, was an offensive lineman on back-to-back Big South Championship Football teams.

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—From 2001 to 2005, C.J. Brown was an offensive lineman on back-to-back Big South Championship Football teams (2002 and 2003). The life-changing experience provided the skills he needed to build his career, and he wants to ensure that future student-athletes have the same chance to succeed.

“The institution of è��ͷ�� football prepared me for life’s hard lessons, fostered a can-do work ethic, and most of all gave me a rock-solid foundation of brotherhood and friendships that I cherish very deeply,” Brown asserted. “My hope is that through the Legacy Football Endowment, and future contributions from myself and others, that we can help elevate the experience for all who are lucky enough to get the opportunity to join this football family.”

He continued, “Dr. Downs has breathed new life into all of è��ͷ��’s athletics, and with Coach (Tre) Lamb’s energy, there are great things in the future at GWU Football.”

Raised in historic Edgefield County, S.C., Brown graduated from è��ͷ�� in 2005 with a bachelor’s degree in business and in 2007 with his MBA. He met his wife, Megan, while at the University, and they have two children. Family is important to him, as well as passing on the traditions of the outdoor lifestyle and conservation.

“Football is a hard game,” Brown shared. “I was an offensive lineman, and in the trenches there’s a battle every snap. Like so many who play the game, I had to fight to win a starting spot, fight to get healthy from injuries, learn how to play through pain, adhere to a strict schedule, follow orders, accept when you’re not the best and learn from those who are better than you. Football teaches you a get-right-back- up mentality. You learn how to deal with failure and success pretty quickly, or you just don’t make it. I’ve failed far more times in business than I’ve succeeded.”

He noted that his professors and courses in the Godbold College of Business gave him the basic foundation he needed to try—new ideas, concepts and opportunities. After graduating with his bachelor’s degree, he earned a graduate assistant position in the GWU Operations Department. “That was an absolutely wonderful experience,” he reflected. “I learned so much about the inner workings of the school, and the people were fabulous. The staff there treated me like family and I’m so thankful they gave me a shot.”

With his background in conservation and business education, Brown established a real estate company that specializes in the sale and marketing of land, plantations, estates, timberlands, and high-quality recreational properties. “My father taught me best practices of land stewardship at an early age, and I grew up shadowing his national efforts for wildlife conservation,” Brown said. “My foundation gave me a deep connection and love of land and wildlife, and of the stewards that take care of it.”

Legacy Football Endowment

The Legacy Football Endowment will provide operations assistance to the è��ͷ�� University football program. For more information about the endowment, contact Wes Cogdill at wcogdill@gardner-webb.edu.

For more stories like this, visit .��

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è��ͷ�� Bulldog Club Continues to Break Records

Office of University Communications — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 13:31:39 +0000

Membership Growth Largest in 31 Years

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—è��ͷ�� University is home to a campus of champions. Fresh off Big South Championships in Women’s Basketball and Football, a Southern Conference individual title in Wrestling, and a Men’s Tennis Big South regular season conference title, GWU is announcing another major step forward: the è��ͷ�� Bulldog Club has now grown to its largest membership total in 31 years.

è��ͷ�� President William Downs is excited to see a new and energized interest in supporting the Runnin’ Bulldogs in the stands and through membership in the Bulldog Club. Downs noted, “It’s fun to win, and the thrill of victory is contagious. With our student-athletes now reaching new levels of competitive success, we are seeing more loyal fans and friends step up their personal investment in building championship-level programs at our university.”

He continued, “I’ve said before that wishful thinking alone won’t produce winners; to win, you need resources and facilities that eclipse those of your rivals. You need scholarships. You need a fan base that is large, loud, and willing to travel…just as ours did this season in carrying Women’s Basketball to its most dominant performance in the D-1 era. Our Bulldog Club is vital to GWU’s emerging athletic prowess, and we fully intend to keep the positive momentum going.”

The Bulldog Club is an investment in student-athletes. Membership provides scholarships for nearly 600 GWU student-athletes participating in 22 NCAA Division I intercollegiate athletics.

“With three team and one individual conference championships and the potential for more, this year proves that championships do indeed begin with scholarships,” affirmed Vice President for Advancement Nate Evans. “We are grateful to all those that have chosen to support our student-athletes by becoming a member of the Bulldog Club. Their generosity continues to take the Runnin’ Bulldogs to new heights.”

Evans reported that membership has doubled since fiscal year 2021. “The Bulldog Club allows student-athletes the opportunity to pursue their education while competing in the sport they love,” he stated. “Last year, more than 1,000 donors supported our student-athletes and GWU Athletics through either the Bulldog Club or a donation to sport-specific Fund. With coming up on April 20, we are on pace for even greater success. This new era of GWU Athletics will be defined by a winning culture.”

è��ͷ�� alumna, and former track and field athlete, and Bulldog Club scholarship recipient, Kelsey Houser, has fond memories of her time as a Runnin’ Bulldog. “Five years as a student-athlete teaches persistence, mental toughness, and endurance,” Houser related. “However, it also teaches that behind every individual is a well-built support system. Between teammates, coaches, trainers, and staff, I always knew there was someone in my corner. è��ͷ�� is a community in every aspect, and I could not be more blessed by the impact the è��ͷ�� family has made in my life.”

While members of the GWU Bulldog Club are eligible for exclusive benefits like pre-game hospitality meal access, GWU apparel, priority seating, and more, the most important aspect of the membership is helping GWU student athletes to achieve their academic, athletic, and spiritual goals. Those who wish to join can do so at any time during the year. To find out more, click here.

Note to our readers: This article reflects the University’s tuition and fee schedule at the time of publication. Tuition and financial aid policies change annually. For the most up-to-date and accurate information on current tuition rates and financial aid resources, please visit the University’s official Admissions page.

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GWU Bulldog Club, Led by Executive Director Wes Cogdill, Sets Record in Membership

Office of University Communications — Fri, 30 Sep 2022 17:44:51 +0000

Board of Trustees Chair Gary Smith Challenges Trustees to 100% Participation

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Since returning to è��ͷ�� University nearly a month ago, alumnus Wes Cogdill has sparked excitement among friends and fellow alumni as the new Bulldog Club Executive Director. Building on work started by GWU’s Office of Advancement, Cogdill has already grown the Bulldog Club to its highest membership in 10 years.

Wes Cogdill

Cogdill is enthusiastic about achieving more records in membership over the next year and beyond. “The sense of pride and passion for è��ͷ�� is unrivaled and this is an exciting time for the University,” he observed. “People want to be part of this new chapter, and I want to help them understand how they can help and become part of something great. As we continue to connect and reconnect with friends and alumni, I believe we will see things continue to flourish. People want to support the Bulldog Club so they can directly support our student-athletes.”

Also catching the vision and encouraging the growth is Board of Trustees Chair Gary Smith. “I informed the Board of Trustees at our first Board meeting I served as Chair (Feb. 17, 2022) that one of my goals was for all Trustees to be members of the Bulldog Club,” he shared. “I set this as a goal because I believe it is important for our Trustees to be actively involved with all activities at è��ͷ�� University and to support the University financially. I believe that winning championships at è��ͷ�� University will have a dramatic impact on the overall success of the entire University.”

Smith added that he would like to see 100% participation by the Board of Trustees by their next meeting on Oct. 20. “I am very excited about the record membership level for participation in the Bulldog Club,” he stated. “I know Nate Evans and staff have worked tirelessly to achieve this result, and I know they want to be even more successful. I am also excited about the addition of Wes Cogdill as the new Executive Director of the Bulldog Club. Wes is a former è��ͷ�� athlete and understands the importance of enhancing funding for our athletics programs. Great things are ahead for the athletics programs at è��ͷ��!”

Cogdill noted that it’s a great time to join the Bulldog Club to show support for the conference games for soccer, volleyball, and football, and the upcoming basketball, swimming, and wrestling seasons. “I would like to see the Bulldog Club continue to grow to new heights this year,” he asserted. “If you haven’t joined, now is the perfect time to help provide scholarship support to our more than 600 student athletes. Join �ԴǷ�.”

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è��ͷ�� Advancement Office Welcomes New Bulldog Club Executive Director

Office of University Communications — Tue, 23 Aug 2022 15:35:22 +0000

GWU Alumnus Wes Cogdill will Lead Efforts to Support Over 600 Student-Athletes

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—è��ͷ�� University’s Office of Advancement has announced a new executive director for the Bulldog Club. Alumnus Wes Cogdill, of Boiling Springs, brings experience as a student-athlete, educator, coach and marketing professional to the important role of supporting the University’s Athletics programs.

Wes Cogdill

Cogdill, who begins on Sept. 6, is no stranger to è��ͷ��. In addition to being a 2008 alumnus, four-year letterman and Academic All-Conference on the baseball diamond, he served as a fundraiser in the GWU Office of Advancement for three years. In his new position, Cogdill reports directly to the Vice President for Advancement Nate Evans. His responsibilities include implementing and managing fundraising and membership growth strategies with a focus on supporting over 600 student-athletes and the University’s 22 NCAA Division I teams.

“Wes’ experience as a student-athlete and his deep appreciation for the University will serve as a valuable foundation to his success,” Evans observed. “His approachability and hard work ethic will only strengthen our efforts, and Runnin’ Bulldog fans from all over will appreciate his appetite for success.”

Cogdill returns to his alma mater after serving as Market Development Manager at His Way At Work. His duties there included partnering with organizations and their leaders to evaluate their workplace environment. Then, he helped them focus organizational leadership through the lens of Christian principles.

“I’m pleased to have Wes rejoin our team at è��ͷ��,” shared GWU President William Downs. “He’s coming into the position with eyes wide open, well aware that for us to be successful we have to grow our Bulldog Club quickly. At the D-I level, our Bulldog Club must transform into a much larger, much stronger, and much better funded organization. If you look across the NCAA landscape, the universities that produce consistent winners are invariably those that are backed by vibrant booster clubs. Wes’ roots at GWU are deep. He cares about our success. I know he’s ready to roll up his sleeves and get busy building something special.”

Cogdill graduated from è��ͷ�� with his Bachelor of Arts in Communications with a concentration in public relations and a minor in marketing. He completed his lateral entry teacher certification in 2013 and has five years of experience as a secondary school exceptional children’s teacher. During that time, he coached high school golf and middle school baseball. Additionally, Cogdill worked in the GWU Admissions office as a counselor, managing the Student Recruitment Ambassadors and serving as Alumni Partnerships Representative.

“I am thrilled to have the opportunity to be back home with my è��ͷ�� family,” Cogdill affirmed. “I recognize that athletics influences Runnin’ Bulldogs to become part of the è��ͷ�� team that impacts the campus community. I am grateful for the chance to help the Runnin’ Bulldogs continue building winning traditions. I am looking forward to connecting and reconnecting with alums, staff, and students as we work together to write the next chapter in the Bulldog Club. Go Dawgs!”

Cogdill and his wife, Kristen, have two children and a dog, Bentley. He is an active member of Pleasant City Church and serves as a member of the Board of Directors for Cleveland County Partnership for Children, board member and treasurer for Jim Rice Ministries, and board member of the Foothills Junior Golf Association.

è��ͷ�� University is North Carolina’s recognized leader in private, Christian higher education. A Carnegie-Classified Doctoral/Professional University, GWU is home to six professional schools, 14 academic departments, 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. Ignite your future at è��ͷ��.edu.

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è��ͷ�� Announces New Vice President for University Advancement

Office of University Communications — Tue, 01 Sep 2020 20:54:49 +0000

Nate J. Evans Excited to Connect with Alumni and Campus Community

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.— Officials at è��ͷ�� University have announced the selection of a new member of senior staff to lead the Advancement team. Nathaniel “Nate” J. Evans, of Greenville, N.C., will begin his role as Vice President of Advancement on October 5, 2020, and will direct the offices of alumni relations, major gifts, the Bulldog Club, and the annual fund. Most recently, Evans served as senior advancement officer at East Carolina University (ECU) in Greenville, N.C.

“Nate Evans is going to inject a new level of energy, determination, and skill to fundraising and external relations at GWU,” praised University President Dr. William Downs. “I worked with Nate at ECU during my time there as dean, and I have great confidence in his ability to organize a strong team, to map out a data-driven strategy, and to persist until he reaches or exceeds his goals. Nate will bring professionalism and a compelling personality that Runnin’ Bulldogs everywhere will appreciate.”

Evans’ higher education career began as an admissions counselor for ECU Undergraduate Admissions. After several years in this position, he transitioned to university advancement working as a major gifts officer on behalf of the ECU Honors College. His role soon transitioned to a regional officer where he diligently worked to engage alumni throughout the region and country to include North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, Texas and Colorado. Evans’ efforts led him into a senior advancement officer role where his responsibilities continued to expand.

“I am honored to have the opportunity, and I am excited to join the team that serves the è��ͷ�� community,” Evans shared. “As a student and later as a fundraiser, I’ve seen firsthand the impact that philanthropy can have for not only students but the rest of the campus community. I am grateful for the chance to help the Runnin’ Bulldogs continue a legacy of success. I am looking forward to connecting with alumni, the staff, and students as we all work together to write è��ͷ��’s next chapter. I can’t wait to get started. Go Dawgs!”

During his time in university advancement, Evans helped to raise more than $5.6 million. In addition to securing major gifts, his responsibilities included assisting donors with charitable estate planning and working with community-based programs. More importantly, Evans helped to connect and re-engage hundreds of alumni, who were able to give back and support the university through generous gifts of time, talent, and treasure.

Before his higher education career, Evans served in the U.S. Air Force and later in the small business sector. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Exercise and Sports Science with a minor in biology from ECU along with a Master of Science in Human Resource Management from Western Carolina University (Cullowhee, N.C.)

Evans and his wife Brittany are members of Eastern Pines Church in Greenville, N.C. He has also served with Brothers First Motorcycle Ministry and was the head coach for a middle school wrestling team.

Located in the North Carolina foothills, è��ͷ�� University is a private, Christian, liberal arts university. è��ͷ�� emphasizes a strong student-centered experience and rigorous academics to prepare students to become effective leaders within the global community. Ignite your future at è��ͷ��.edu.

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