news-category: Community News Award-Winning Documentary by èͷ Students to Air Locally on C19 TV By Office of University Communications On November 19, 2025 “Shaping the Old North State” explores the lasting impact of former North Carolina Governor O. Max Gardner and First Lady Fay Webb Gardner. ‘Shaping the Old North State’ Explores the Lasting Influence of O. Max and Fay Webb Gardner on the University and Beyond BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—“Shaping the Old North State,” a documentary created by èͷ University students, will be featured locally on Spectrum Cable C19 TV on Sunday, Nov. 23, through Saturday, Nov. 29. Each day, the film will air at 9:30 a.m., 2:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. A story that captures the extraordinary legacy of Cleveland County through the lens of O. Max Gardner and Fay Webb Gardner, the production won the Founder’s Choice Award presented at the 26th Annual Real to Reel International Film Festival. The film traces the Gardners influence far beyond politics and into the present day. They helped reshape not just North Carolina, but the nation. O. Max Gardner served as governor of North Carolina from 1929-1933. Despite living in Raleigh, N.C., and Washington, D.C., the Gardners never forgot their hometown of Shelby, N.C., and what was then a junior college in Boiling Springs. Their devotion and financial support of the college was recognized in 1942, when the trustees voted to name the school, èͷ, after them. Behind the scenes: This is the set where èͷ students filmed the documentary. Recent GWU graduate Carson Willoughby served as director, cinematographer and editor and was assisted by GWU students, Dakota Hawxwell, camera operator and editor, and Jonathan Holbrook, camera operator. The film was produced through èͷ’s Department of Communication, Art & Design in a documentary class taught by the film’s executive producers: Jessica Maloney, assistant professor of photography and design, and Dr. Chris Nelson, professor of theatre arts. “I’m incredibly proud of Carson, Dakota, and Jonathan!” Maloney praised. “I’m so glad our documentary class was able to provide the time and space for them to explore the history of our university’s namesakes and bring their stories to life through film. Their achievement reflects the creativity, innovation, and collaborative spirit we strive to foster in the Communication, Art & Design department.” The project also features contributions from GWU faculty and staff, including Dr. Natalie Bishop, dean of the GWU Library, Dr. Tim Vanderburg, professor of history, and voice talent from Jeff Powell, instructor of communication studies and general manager of WGWG Radio. èͷ 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., èͷ 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 èͷ.edu. Interested in video and film? Start your journey here. “Shaping the Old North State” explores the lasting impact of former North Carolina Governor O. Max Gardner and First Lady Fay Webb Gardner.
News Article èͷ Communication, Art and Design Seniors to Showcase Work in Annual Portfolio Show Reception and Walk‑Through Exhibit set for April 17 in Tucker Student Center’s Ali Pouryousefi Gallery BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—The èͷ University Department of Communication, Art and Design will be celebrating its annual Senior Portfolio Show with a reception on April 17 in the Tucker Student Center. The event will be a walk-through style with works shown […] Office of University Communications | April 15, 2026
News Article èͷ Students Compete in Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) State Conference 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 […] Office of University Communications | April 15, 2026
News Article Gardner‑Webb University Orchestra Welcomes Legendary Artists Mark and Maggie O’Connor for a 250 Celebration of America Grammy winning Artists Headline a Patriotic Program Celebrating American Composers, Veterans, and GWU’s New President Nate Evans BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Influenced early by American fiddle traditions and later shaped by classical training, Mark O’Connor’s music reflects the full scope of America’s musical heritage. On April 27 at 7 p.m. in Dover Theatre, his unique musical talent […] Office of University Communications | April 15, 2026