BOILING SPRINGS, NC- $45 million dollars. That is the goal for the Gardner-Webb University Higher Ground Campaign, which went public on Nov. 11 at a gala celebration. This campaign will raise money for student scholarships, faculty development, buildings, service learning and several other university needs.The highlight of the day was the announcement that $33 million has already been raised toward the Higher Ground Campaign goal. These funds were secured during the 4-year “leader-phase” of the campaign, which began in July 2006.
"The resources required to accomplish this exciting vision will be immense. With your assistance and God's blessings, we will achieve an audacious goal of $45 million dollars to enhance the spirit of Gardner-Webb, enhance our incredible campus, continue to build our faculty, and attract first-rate students to our campus. This we can do... will do,” said GWU President Frank Bonner during the announcement.
At the Nov. 11 kickoff, a host of activities were featured throughout the day beginning with a campus- wide praise and prayer service and coffee reception honoring GWU President Frank Bonner on his five years of presidential service. The University also hosted a groundbreaking ceremony for the Tucker Student Center, a guest lecture from Dr. Chuck Wall, founder and president of Kindness USA, and a celebration dance featuring the Band of Oz.
The Campaign announcement included student representatives, university donors, Board of Trustee members, a campaign video, and live music from the GWU Orchestra. Paying tribute to its rich history while charting ambitious goals for the future, Gardner-Webb University outlined its vision for the largest capital campaign in the University’s history.
The foundation for the Higher Ground Campaign is rooted in the University’s strategic plan. This plan focuses on; strengthening the Christian foundation of the University, strengthening the academic program, becoming a true student centered university, maintaining a reputable and competitive athletic program, maintaining a culture of service; and building supportive relationships and new facilities.
“Higher Ground is about sharpening our identity, and advancing Gardner-Webb’s mission of educational service as we share that identity with the world. We’ll need resources to reach these new peaks: your financial support, your involvement, and of course your prayers,” said Bonner.
The Higher Ground Campaign will seek the support of alumni, parents, trustees and friends of Gardner-Webb, as well as local and national corporations, foundations and business leaders.
“Giving to Gardner-Webb is a great investment. If you want to support a Christian educational opportunity, Gardner-Webb is the right place,” said Campaign Chair, John Godbold. “We want Gardner-Webb to be an elite Christian university, and it will be.”
The University has experienced tremendous growth over the past several years with new facilities, record enrollments and historical gifts from donors. But Bonner feels the best is yet to come, “The potential has never been greater, the vision has never been clearer, and the future has never been brighter.”
To get more information or to get involved in the Higher Ground Campaign, call (704) 406-4250.
Located in Boiling Springs, NC, Gardner-Webb University was founded in 1905 and is home to over 4300 students from 37 states and 23 foreign countries.
