Office of Campus Unity and Connection Encourages Compassion, Hope and Engagement

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—From messages of encouragement to educational programming, ���سԹ�-Webb University’s Office of Campus Unity and Connection will offer several opportunities for the campus community to engage in Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Activities will invite participants to honor survivors, remember loved ones and learn more about breast health and early detection.

The monthlong observance will begin Oct. 1 with a Breast Cancer Awareness and Remembrance banner displayed on the first floor of the Tucker Student Center near the rock-climbing wall. Students, faculty and staff are invited to sign the banner with messages of hope, solidarity and support.

“Breast Cancer Awareness Month gives our campus an opportunity to come together in compassion and community,” said Jessika Raduly, director of Campus Unity and Connection. “Through these events, we want to honor the lives impacted by breast cancer, celebrate the strength of survivors, support those who are currently fighting, and remind everyone that even simple acts of encouragement can make a meaningful difference.”

The banner will hang near the rock-climbing wall throughout the month as a visible reminder of the many individuals and families affected by breast cancer.

Activities will continue with Pink Notes of Kindness on Oct. 15 at noon in the Dover Campus Center. During the event, students will receive a cookie and a note featuring messages of hope, strength and support. Organizers hope the event will encourage students to spread kindness while raising awareness about breast cancer and its impact on individuals and families.

The month’s educational component will take place Oct. 28 at 2 p.m. in the Tucker Student Center through Pack It Pink! Fill a Box (candy station) for Breast Cancer Awareness. Hosted in partnership with ���سԹ�-Webb’s Physician Assistant Studies Program, the event will offer students an opportunity to increase their understanding of breast cancer risk factors. While enjoying a sweet treat, they will learn about the importance of knowing personal and family health history, breast health awareness, early detection and available screening resources.

“Awareness is about more than wearing pink,” Raduly said. “It is about learning the facts, understanding personal risk factors, encouraging preventive care and showing support for those whose lives have been touched by breast cancer. We hope these programs inspire both education and meaningful connection.”

In addition to Breast Cancer Awareness Month activities, the Office of Campus Unity and Connection is highlighting several opportunities for students to connect and engage across campus during October, including Hispanic/Latino Heritage Month Salsa Dance Lessons on Oct. 8, National LGBTQ Awareness Day’s Sweet Belonging event on Oct. 19 and Boo-Nfire on Oct. 23.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month Events

• Oct. 1 – Breast Cancer Awareness & Remembrance Banner, Tucker Student Center.
  
  
• Oct. 15, Noon – Pink Notes of Kindness, Dover Campus Center.
  
  
• Oct. 28, 2 p.m. – Pack It Pink! Fill a Box (candy station) for Breast Cancer Awareness, Tucker Student Center.

Other October Activities

• Oct. 8, 6:30-8:30 p.m. – Hispanic/Latino Heritage Month, Salsa Dance Lessons, Stewart Hall, Tucker Student Center.

• Oct. 19, 4 p.m. – National LGBTQ Awareness Day, Sweet Belonging: Cupcakes. sponsored by the Pride Club, Tucker Student Center.

• Oct. 23, 6 to 8 p.m., Boo-Nfire, s’mores, pizza and games, sponsored by the International Student Club, Patio, Tucker Student Center.

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.

���سԹ�-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., ���سԹ�-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. Become More at .

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Campus Community Invited to Bring Donations and Help Stock Shelves for Students in Need

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.— A jar of peanut butter. A box of pasta. A bottle of laundry detergent. Each may seem like a small contribution, but together they can make a meaningful difference for a ���سԹ�-Webb student facing hardship.

Beginning Oct. 2, those items and others like them will help stock the shelves of the new Bulldog Cares Food Pantry, a resource designed to ensure students have access to basic necessities while pursuing their degrees.

The University will celebrate the grand opening of the pantry on Friday, Oct. 2, at 2 p.m. in Tucker Student Center Room 302. As part of the event, students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community supporters are encouraged to “Bring a Little Bulldog Care” by donating items to the pantry.

“Consider bringing a nonperishable food item, personal-care product, laundry detergent, or other essential item for our students,” suggested Jessika Raduly, director of Campus Unity and Connection. “Together, we can fill the shelves and show our students just how much their ���سԹ�-Webb family cares.”

Raduly said the pantry concept began a few years ago with several staff members who responded to students struggling to meet basic needs, including having enough food. “What started as a small collection of items in an office grew into a larger effort as more people on campus wanted to help,” she explained. “The goal was simple: make sure no student had to choose between buying food and continuing their education.”

Bulldog Cares was formally established in the fall of 2022 as a joint initiative led by Student Development, Student Success, and Christian Life and Service. The program supports ���سԹ�-Webb students by providing emergency financial assistance intended to help prevent students from leaving the University due to unexpected financial hardships. It expanded the University’s ability to help students not only with food insecurity but also with other emergency needs that could interfere with completing their education such as emergency dental procedures or the need for prescription medications.

“Bulldog Cares is a reflection of who we are as a ���سԹ�-Webb community: a family that cares for one another, supports our students when they need us most, and believes that no Bulldog should have to face a difficult season alone,” Raduly shared.

Like colleges and universities across the country, ���سԹ�-Webb has seen demand for assistance increase as the costs of groceries, housing, transportation, and other necessities continue to rise.

“Many students experience financial hardships caused by rising grocery prices, unexpected medical bills, loss of employment, family emergencies, and transportation expenses,” Raduly stated. “Some students simply need extra help to lessen the burden of having to choose hardship over their education.”

Raduly hopes students who may be struggling will not hesitate to seek assistance. “Everyone needs help sometimes, and asking for assistance is a sign of strength, not weakness,” she said. “There may be times in all of our lives when circumstances change unexpectedly and we need someone to come alongside us. There is absolutely no shame in that.”

She emphasized that the pantry was created to support students through difficult seasons without judgment. “If you are a student who is hesitant to visit the Bulldog Cares Food Pantry, I would want you to know that you do not have to struggle alone,” Raduly said. “You do not have to explain or apologize for needing help. The pantry was created because we understand that food insecurity and financial challenges can affect anyone, including hardworking students who are doing everything they can to stay in school and reach their goals.”

The Bulldog Cares Fund and Food Pantry are supported by donations from faculty, staff, students, alumni, churches, local businesses, and community partners. Contributions from organizations such as Food Lion Feeds, the Physician Assistant Program, ���سԹ�-Webb Baseball, Poplar Springs Baptist Church, and numerous campus groups help ensure students have access to essential resources throughout the year.

“This collective support from our ���سԹ�-Webb family and community partners has made it possible for the Bulldog Cares Food Pantry to continue serving students throughout the year,” Raduly said. “We are incredibly grateful for everyone who has helped make this resource possible and for their continued commitment to caring for our students.”

Looking ahead, Raduly hopes the pantry will continue to grow through partnerships, donations, and increased awareness.

“The goal is to continue expanding resources so that every ���سԹ�-Webb student who is experiencing food insecurity knows that help is available and feels comfortable reaching out for support,” she said. “We want Bulldog Cares to be more than a pantry—we want it to be a place where students feel welcomed, supported, and reminded that they are part of a community that cares about their well-being and success.”

How Can Students Access the Bulldog Cares Food Pantry?

Currently enrolled ���سԹ�-Webb students can visit the pantry in the Tucker Student Center Room 302 during operating hours:

• Monday: 10 a.m.–1 p.m.
• Wednesday: 10 a.m.–1 p.m.
• Friday: 10 a.m.–1 p.m.

Students unable to visit during those hours can email to request an after-hours appointment or special accommodation. The process is designed to be welcoming, confidential, and respectful so students can receive assistance without unnecessary barriers.

How Can I Support Bulldog Cares?

Community members can support Bulldog Cares by donating nonperishable food items, personal-care products, laundry supplies, school supplies, and other essential items. Find the complete list here. Financial contributions are also welcome. For more information, visit the Bulldog Cares website.

���سԹ�-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., ���سԹ�-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. Become More at .

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Campus Events Focus on Education, Advocacy, and Solidarity with Survivors

���سԹ�-Webb University’s Office of Student Development will recognize Sexual Assault Awareness Month throughout April with a series of educational programs and awareness events. For 25 years, Sexual Assault Awareness Month has united survivors, advocates, and communities in a shared commitment to ending sexual assault, abuse, and harassment through education, prevention, and support.

Vice President of Student Development and Dean of Students Lesley Villarose, who also serves as the University’s interim Title IX coordinator, emphasized the importance of intentionally observing the month and engaging the campus community in meaningful ways.

“Honoring Sexual Assault Awareness Month means choosing to see, to listen, and to act—because every voice matters, every story deserves dignity, and every community has a responsibility to create a culture of respect, consent, and accountability,” Villarose emphasized.

Building on this commitment, ���سԹ�-Webb will host a variety of programs and initiatives this mont aimed at fostering awareness, education, and open dialogue around sexual violence, prevention efforts, and available campus resources.

Monthlong Book Display at Dover Library

���سԹ�-Webb’s Dover Library will host a book display featuring books and educational resources focused on sexual violence awareness, prevention, consent, and survivor support. This collection is intended to encourage learning, reflection, and informed dialogue across the campus community. Students, faculty, and staff are invited to visit the display throughout the month to explore these important topics and access available resources.

April 1

• Start By Believing Day – 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., front of the Caf, Dover Campus Center.

Held the first Wednesday in April, Start by Believing Day provides an opportunity for communities to unify with a single voice for survivors. “We hear you, we support you, and we will start by believing.”

April 8

• Know Your IX: Title IX training session – 7 p.m., Faith Hall, Tucker Student Center.

April 9

• Consent with Fries – 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., front of Tucker Student Center.

April 13

• Know Your IX: Title IX training session – 8:15 a.m., Faith Hall, Tucker Student Center.

April 15

• Know Your IX: Title IX training session – 2 p.m., Football Training Room

April 16

• Wear Teal Day: Free Slushies – 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., front of Caf, Dover Campus Center.

Teal is the official color of Sexual Assault Awareness Month to represent prevention, healing, and solidarity with survivors. “T.E.A.L.” represents Togetherness, Empowerment, Advocacy, and Learning.

April 29

• Wear Denim Day

Denim Day originated in response to a widely criticized Italian court decision in the 1990s that raised serious concerns about the treatment and rights of victims. Women in the Italian Parliament wore jeans in solidarity the following day, helping to spark a movement that is now recognized globally and supported by organizations such as Peace Over Violence.

���سԹ�-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., ���سԹ�-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. Become More at .

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Students Reflect on Resilience, Representation, and the Ongoing Impact of Black Culture

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—The ���سԹ�-Webb Black Student Association (BSA) is sponsoring a spirit week and several events to highlight African American culture and heritage. Shiasia Jefferies, BSA president, explains why February is the perfect month to honor Black History. Along with BSA, the Office of Campus Unity and Connection is sponsoring two programs. Learn more here.

“February, often referred to as the ‘month of love,’ offers a meaningful opportunity to reconnect with our roots and honor the traditions we continue to cherish, despite the hardships our ancestors endured,” Jefferies noted. “This month gives us the space to educate, celebrate, and inspire others to understand the depth of Black history. I believe Black History Month goes far beyond simply acknowledging that we are no longer in bondage; it is about recognizing resilience, contributions, and the ongoing impact of Black culture.”

The BSA Vice President Naliah Codjovi shared that Black History Month reminds her how much strength can be found in unity and perseverance. “Black History Month allows me to dedicate time to learn about and be inspired by figures who created great changes in the world, even when the world was against them,” she related.

Codjovi, of Charlotte, N.C., is an Ignite Scholar at ���سԹ�-Webb, an award that includes full tuition to the University. A biology major with a biomedical concentration and a minor in health administration, her goal is to become a Physician Assistant and enter the field of hematology. She appreciates all those who have led the way into the field of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM).

“I’ve been very inspired by people of color in science,” she shared. “I’ve been seeing a lot of news about black inventors. I love hearing and seeing people of color in STEM. Growing up interested in STEM, I’ve definitely found myself being the only black girl in the room. I didn’t see people who look like me in these roles, but lately I have had black doctors and black professors and they remind me that in a world that tries to doubt us and hold us back, we can still come out on top and pave the way for those behind us.”

Jefferies is a senior sociology major from Hickory, N.C. She is also inspired by the number of African American inventions that are still used today and points out other contributions to society. “Another powerful expression of Black culture can be seen in the way we wear our hair and dress, which has influenced and inspired people across many different racial and cultural backgrounds,” she acknowledged. “Music is also especially meaningful to me, as the soul, emotion, and deeper messages behind many Black songs are incredibly moving and reflective of our shared experiences.”

Jefferies and Codjovi said BSA planned its celebration of Black History Month to educate and foster connection. “Even within our own community, some people have limited understanding of what Black history is meant to represent,” Jefferies stated. “Ultimately, we aim to bring everyone together, as our events are not just for Black students on campus but for the entire community.”

Jefferies concluded, “Black History Month and the Black Student Association represent more than a celebration of the past; they are spaces for growth, education, and community building. They provide opportunities for meaningful conversations, shared experiences, and continued learning that extend beyond a single month. Through BSA, students are encouraged to engage with Black history and culture in ways that promote understanding, empowerment, and unity across the campus community.”

Join the celebration by participating in the days or events listed below.

Black History Month Spirit Week

Share your photos on Instagram and tag . 

• Feb. 10 – Sound of Movement, dress like your favorite artist, music year, or music genre.
• Feb. 11 – Power in Roots – express yourself through your hair.
• Feb. 12 – Unity and Culture Day – Wear a T-shirt promoting a black music group or one displaying a powerful quote.
• Feb. 13 – Walk into Your Purpose, wear were favorite shoes.

Events

• Feb. 10 – 7 p.m., Open Mic Night celebration of Black History Month. Tucker first floor.
• Feb. 11 – 7 to 9 p.m., Debate on relationships and dating, snacks served, Clubhouse.
• Feb. 12 – 2 to 4 p.m., DIY Bar, decorate a trucker hat or tote bag (materials provided), Tucker Rm. 141.
• Feb. 24 – 6 p.m. Black History Month Bingo Night with pizza, snacks, drinks, prizes, Clubhouse.

For more information, email ncodjovi@gardner-webb.edu.

���سԹ�-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., ���سԹ�-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. Become More at .

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Programs, Library Display, and Black Student Association Events Spotlight Black Voices, Identity, and Resilience

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—The observance of Black History Month at ���سԹ�‑Webb University features a series of events and initiatives designed to connect the campus community to the past, celebrate the present, and strengthen relationships. The Office of Campus Unity and Connection, the Black Student Association (BSA), and Dover Library are collaborating to highlight the rich history, culture, and creative contributions of Black Americans.

Dover Library

���سԹ�-Webb Instruction Librarian Katie Hartley has curated a special display featuring new releases from African American authors. She designed the exhibit to showcase a range of voices, spotlighting both emerging writers and well‑known authors. The goal, she explained, is to give patrons an opportunity to explore diverse perspectives and perhaps discover a new favorite book.

BSA Spirit Week and Events

The Black Student Association is also leading the campus in celebration through Black History Month Spirit Week, held Feb. 9–13, and hosting other events throughout the month. Read more about their events here.

Office of Campus Unity and Connection

Jessika Raduly, director of Campus Unity and Connection, said understanding history is foundational to building a stronger community. “Celebrating Black History Month at ���سԹ�-Webb University is more than learning about history; it is about applying that knowledge to build a more unified and empathetic student body in the present. When students engage with the stories, struggles, and triumphs of Black history makers, they create a shared language of resilience that resonates across all backgrounds.”  

Campus Unity and Connection is offering two additional programs that invite students to explore identity and perseverance through storytelling. Graduate student Alexis Wideman, who helped plan the events, says each one provides space for connection and reflection. Refreshments will be available at both programs while supplies last.

The first event on Feb. 16, “The Story We Tell,” will invite participants to create their own quilt square—no sewing required. Guest speaker, Dr. Simone McIntyre, assistant professor in the Department of Counselor Education, will discuss “Stitches, Strength, and Stories: Honoring Black History Month.” Inspired by the historic significance of quilting in Black communities, this event encourages students to express aspects of their identity, culture, and heritage. The completed squares will later be displayed in Tucker Student Center.

“For enslaved Black Americans, quilts served not only as a pathway to freedom but also as a powerful way to tell and preserve history within their familial roots,” Wideman explained. “This event allows participants to create and share the story they want to tell about who they are, so that each time they pass by the display, they can see their personalized quilt square and be reminded of their identity and story.”

The celebration continues on Feb. 19 with a movie night featuring “Harriet,” the acclaimed 2019 film starring Cynthia Erivo. The biographical drama highlights Harriet Tubman’s courage, leadership, and enduring impact on the fight for justice. Wideman describes Tubman as a symbol of resilience and conviction. She described, “Harriet Tubman demonstrates how faith in God can make the impossible possible. This film also sheds light on the history of slavery and the daily hardships endured by enslaved Black Americans. Regardless of how painful or difficult this history may be, it should never be forgotten, as it shows how resilience in the face of hate and ignorance continues to flow through the veins of Black Americans.”

Together, these programs invite the ���سԹ�‑Webb community to honor Black history in meaningful, multifaceted ways throughout the month of February.

���سԹ�-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., ���سԹ�-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. Become More at .

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Observance Invites Reflection on King’s Enduring Legacy and Encourages Community Outreach

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—The ���سԹ�-Webb Office of Campus Unity and Connection invites the campus community to participate in Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Week of Celebrations and Service. The observance offers a time to reflect on King’s enduring legacy and actively contribute to building stronger communities.

King, a champion for justice, equality, and nonviolent activism, inspired a movement that led to the end of legalized segregation with the passage of the Civil Rights Act in 1964. Later that same year, the 35-year-old King became the youngest person to win the Nobel Peace Prize. Americans celebrated the first official Martin Luther King Jr. Day on Jan. 20, 1986. In 1994, Congress designated the holiday as a National Day of Service and marked the third Monday in January every year as the “Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service: a Day On, Not a Day Off.”

The schedule for the week and suggestions of service opportunities follow.

Martin Luther King Jr. Week of Celebrations and Service

• Monday, Jan. 19
• Attend the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration hosted by the Cleveland County NAACP in Shelby, N.C.
  • Peace Walk: starts at 10:30 a.m. at the Justice Center and ends at Malcolm Brown Auditorium at Shelby High School.
  • Main program: 11:30 a.m. in Malcolm Brown Auditorium. Free and open to the public. Shuttles will run from Malcolm Brown to the Justice Center at 9:30 a.m. The speaker is Ronald Harrill, who has volunteered in education for more than 20 years, serving as a mentor, lecturer, consultant, lunch buddy, coach, advisory committee member and community advocate. The Shelby native released the second edition of his children’s book “Makeda: Queen Of Sheba” under his own publishing company, R. Harrill Enterprises.

• Tuesday, Jan. 20
• 2 p.m., Voices of Unity: The Pennant Project, Tucker Student Center—The Campus Office of Unity and Connection will provide blank pennants that individuals can write on, describing their dreams, experiences, and identities. The display will create a shared visual expression. Each pennant will represent a unique voice, and together they form a powerful symbol of community, collaboration, and unity.

• Thursday, Jan. 22
• 7 p.m., MLK Week Featured Film, Spectrum Theater, Tucker Student Center
  • Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.: King in the Wilderness: The Last Years of MLK Jr.’s Life’—this documentary explores a portrait of Martin Luther King Jr. during the last years of his life, from his part in the Voting Rights Act of 1965 to his assassination in 1968.

Service activities

Throughout the week, ���سԹ�-Webb students are encouraged to join our MLK Day of Service activities:

• Donate or volunteer safely with food banks and pantries—Visit or to find an organization near you.
• Deliver meals and groceries to vulnerable seniors—Help out someone you know or contact your local to learn ways to volunteer.
• Stay in Touch—Check on your neighbors, friends, and family, especially those who are older or maybe alone. A phone call, text, or a conversation through the door could brighten their day.
• Volunteer from home—Check out for service ideas.

For more information, please contact: Jessika Raduly, director of Campus Unity and Connection, at jraduly1@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.

���سԹ�-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., ���سԹ�-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. Become More at .

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GWU Alumna Brings Institutional Experience and Proven Commitment to Student Well-Being to Her New Role

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—���سԹ�-Webb Vice President for Student Development and Dean of Students Lesley Villarose has named Jessika Raduly, previous associate director of Student Engagement, as the new director of Campus Unity and Connection. Raduly earned both her Bachelor of Science and Master of Business Administration from GWU.

Villarose noted Raduly’s experience and praised her skills as a communicator and leader. “Jessika Raduly is the best person to lead Campus Unity and Connection because she brings nearly two decades of deep institutional knowledge, a proven commitment to student well-being, and a unique ability to build bridges across our entire community,” she emphasized. “Her leadership style is rooted in empathy, collaboration, and genuine care—exactly what this role requires.”

Raduly joined the University staff in 2006 and has served in multiple areas, including the Departments of Health, Sport, and Physical Education, and Housing and Residence Education.

“Over the last 19-plus years at ���سԹ�-Webb University, I have remained deeply committed to helping students grow into the best version of themselves,” Raduly shared. “As I continue to develop in my new position, I will seek out opportunities to expand my specialized skills and support an increasingly diverse student population. In my work with international students and multicultural groups, I will focus on strengthening global student support, enhancing cross-cultural programming, and enriching the overall campus culture.

Raduly and her husband, Jody, and their two children are active members of Pleasant City Church in Shelby, N.C. In her free time, she enjoys being outdoors, exercising, and spending quality time with her family.

In alignment with ���سԹ�-Webb’s core Christian values, the Office of Campus Unity and Connection is designed to promote a positive and supportive educational experience for all faculty, staff and students. Further, the Office of Campus Unity and Connection fosters a welcoming campus environment to all, where students can engage, grow, and thrive.

Through meaningful programs, leadership opportunities, and community partnerships, Raduly will work to help students build relationships, develop essential interpersonal skills, and find their place at the University. Whether through student organizations, cultural programs and initiatives, or campus events, Raduly is dedicated to creating a vibrant and supportive community that enhances the student experience, both inside and outside the classroom.

���سԹ�-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., ���سԹ�-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. Learn more at .

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Local and Regional Events Celebrate African American Trailblazers and Culture

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—The Black Student Association (BSA) at ���سԹ�-Webb University, along with the GWU Office of Diversity and Inclusion, is hosting several events and activities to celebrate Black History Month. The BSA empowers Black students to voice concerns, discuss issues, and foster meaningful community conversations. This organization is open to all undergraduate students.

Black History Month was founded by Dr. Carter G. Woodson in February 1926. Woodson also formed the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH), which sponsors the month each year.

The 2025 theme of Black History Month is African Americans and Labor, which focuses on the various and profound ways that work and working of all kinds—free and unfree, skilled and unskilled, vocational and voluntary—intersect with the collective experiences of Black people.

Black History Month Events

Find more information about the Black Student Association on Instagram (@gwu.bsa)

• Feb. 17 – 2 to 4 p.m., Guess the Quote, Tucker Student Center.
• Feb. 18 – 6 p.m., R&B Paint Night, Clubhouse, R&B music, paint and snacks.
• Feb. 19 – 2 p.m., Customize your trucker hat, Room 141 Tucker, hats and an assortment of patches are provided, while supplies last. Contact Joanna Woods, BSA president, at jwoods9@gardner-webb.edu or DM on Instagram @gwu.bsa.
• Feb. 20 – 7 p.m., Line Dance, Stewart Hall, Tucker Student Center.
• Feb. 25 – 6 p.m., Soul Food and Game Night, Clubhouse. RSVP required before Feb. 25. Register .

Black Student Association (BSA) Spirit Week

• Feb. 17 – Melanin Monday – wear shades of brown.
• Feb. 18 – Thrive for Excellence – dress to impress.
• Feb. 20 – Throwback Thursday – wear your best >2000s attire
• Feb. 21 – Black is Beautiful – Blackout Friday. 

Find regional events on the North Carolina African American Heritage Commission’s calendar, .

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.

���سԹ�-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., ���سԹ�-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 ���سԹ�-Webb.edu.����

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Documentary Chronicles History of Movement to Advocate for Women in Ministry

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—The School of Divinity and the Department of Religious Studies and Philosophy are sponsoring the screening of “Midwives of a Movement” on Monday, April 15, at 7 p.m. in Dover Chapel. Produced by Baptist Women in Ministry (BWIM), the film features the organization’s Executive Director, the Rev. Dr. Meredith Hare Stone.

Stone will also attend the ���سԹ�-Webb event and participate in a Q&A session following the movie. The screening is free and open to the public.

Baptist Historian and Baylor University professor, Mandy McMichael, provides commentary for the film, as well. The documentary chronicles the four-decade history of the movement to advocate for women in ministry within and beyond the Southern Baptist Convention.

“Midwives of a Movement” interviews 11 women who were active in the early days of the women’s movement within the Southern Baptist Convention in the 1970s and 1980s, and includes archival material from these years. The women tell how they came to feel called to ministry and what they needed as they began seek opportunities to live out their calling. The film ends as each of them reflect on what their involvement in this movement means to them today.  

More information about the film is available .

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.

���سԹ�-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., ���سԹ�-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 ���سԹ�-Webb.edu.

The post ���سԹ�-Webb Divinity School and Religious Studies and Philosophy Department Host Baptist Women in Ministry Film Screening on April 15 appeared first on ���سԹ�-Webb University.

Activities Planned Throughout the Month Spotlight Women Leaders in Community and Region

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Women’s History Month celebrates and recognizes the achievements of women in a variety of fields across the United States and globally. ���سԹ�-Webb University’s Office of Diversity and Inclusion has several events planned throughout the month of March to highlight women who have made significant contributions in fields such as business, science, art and health.

Director of Diversity and Inclusion, Lawrence Brinson, explained that while Women’s History Month recognizes the perseverance, creativity, and unyielding determination of these women, it is also a time to look to the future. “These events at ���سԹ� Webb are not merely a way of looking back at the past; they also serve to empower women in the present and shape the future,” Brinson noted. “By highlighting the accomplishments of women from various fields, we honor their contributions and inspire the next generation of trailblazers to aim for greater heights.”

Assistant Director of Diversity and Inclusion Lauren Washington observed how she personalizes Women’s History Month. “For me, it allows me to honor, celebrate, and reflect on the strong yet feminine figures who have helped shape me into the person I am today such as: my mother, grandmother, aunt, and cousin,” she reflected. “Oftentimes, I’ve looked to them for guidance on growing into the person God ordained me to be while trying to figure out life. Learning and living based on the platform they built for me, I have learned to be confident in taking up space and keeping my eyes focused on the plan God has for me and my life.”

According to the Library of Congress, the first women’s history celebration lasted a week. Congress passed a law authorizing and requesting the president to proclaim the week beginning March 7, 1982, as “Women’s History Week.” In 1987 after being petitioned by the National Women’s History Project, congress passed a law designating the month of March 1987 as “Women’s History Month.” Between 1988 and 1994, congress passed additional resolutions requesting and authorizing the president to proclaim March of each year as Women’s History Month. Since 1995, presidents have issued a series of annual proclamations designating the month of March as “Women’s History Month.”

International Women’s Day, held this year on March 8, traces its beginning to 1908 when 15,000 women marched through New York City demanding shorter hours, better pay and voting rights. A year later, on Feb. 28, 1909, the first National Women’s Day was observed. In 1911, the first International Women’s Day was held to recognize the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women.

Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Karen Aubrey praised the women who inspire and challenge others. “I am grateful to the women who have opened the doors of opportunity for those generations who followed them, who have been advocates and champions for women and girls to be able to dream and aspire,” she noted. “And, I am thankful for those women who continue to lead and expand access for all.”

In looking ahead to the month of activities planned, Vice President for Student Development and Dean of Students Lesley Villarose emphasized everything the celebration encompasses. “Recognizing Women’s History Month isn’t just about celebrating the achievements of extraordinary individuals,” she asserted. “It’s about acknowledging the diverse perspectives, talents, and contributions that enrich our academic community. By honoring women’s history, universities affirm their commitment to inclusivity, equality, and the empowerment of all students and faculty.”

Women’s History Month Events

���سԹ�-Webb’s Office of Diversity and Inclusion and other departments on campus have events planned in observance of the month.

Empowering Women Day

March 7 – 9, 10 and 11 a.m. in Hamrick Hall, Blanton Auditorium. The Godbold College of Business will have alumnae on panels at both sessions and then Superior Court Judge Sally Kirby Turner will speak to students at 11 a.m.  Alumnae include:  Savannah Burns, Brittney Spangler Beam, Candice Hayes and Catherine Fox. 

Art Exhibit – HerStory Unveiled

March 19 – Tucker Student Center

Description: Showcase of artwork celebrating the contributions of women throughout history.

Film Screening

March 21 – Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and movie starts at 7 p.m. Bottom Patio of Tucker Student Center

Description: Screening of the inspiring film about the unsung heroines of the early space program.

Women in Business & Empowerment Workshop – Leading with Confidence

March 27 – 3 to 5 p.m. Dover Campus Center, Bottom Floor Lounge

Description: Leadership development workshop focusing on building confidence and empowering women in various aspects of life.

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.

���سԹ�-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., ���سԹ�-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 ���سԹ�-Webb.edu.

The post ���سԹ�-Webb Women’s History Month Activities Celebrate Contributions of Women in Business, Science, Art and Health  appeared first on ���سԹ�-Webb University.