Gardner-Webb Inaugurates “Faith, Service and Leadership Hall of Fame”

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C. – Gardner-Webb University President Dr. Frank Bonner recently inaugurated the “Faith, Service and Leadership Hall of Fame,” which recognizes faculty who have served the University for 40 years or more. The University also presented awards to faculty and staff members who have logged 30 years, 25 years, and 10 years of service to the University.

The inaugural class of the “Hall of Fame” included four members.

• Professor Hubert Dixon began teaching mathematics at Boiling Springs Junior College in 1935. “By the time of his death in 1976,” Bonner said, “Gardner-Webb College was an established four-year institution, and it was the leadership of Professors like Hubert Dixon who solidified the school’s values and Christian commitment during those times of drastic transition.” Professor Dixon’s wife, Mrs. Katy Ruth Dixon, was on hand to accept Dixon’s plaque.

• Dr. Les Brown, Professor Emeritus of Biology, taught biology at Gardner-Webb from 1966 until 2006. He was praised for his commitment to interdisciplinary creativity, his passion for his students’ success, and his volunteerism in the community.

• Dr. Tony Eastman, professor of American history, has been guiding Gardner-Webb students in their understanding of America’s history since 1966. “He has been adored by generations of students,” said Bonner, “not only for what he has taught them in the classroom but for his example of integrity outside it.” Eastman will retire from full-time teaching this May.

• Dr. Barry Hambright was professor of history and political science at Gardner-Webb from 1969 until his death in 2010. He was remembered for his empathy, his passion for students, and his role in establishing the University’s Greater Opportunities for Adult Learners (GOAL) program. “We lost an excellent professor and a dear friend last November,” said Bonner, “and when he passed, a significant part of our University’s history passed with him.”

Faculty and Staff Members were also honored for their years of service to the University. Glenda Crotts, senior assistant to the President, was recognized for 30 years of service. “The people at Gardner-Webb are like a large extended family, and the special friendships I’ve been able to make are without a doubt the most cherished part of my job,” Crotts said.

Three employees were presented 25-year service awards: Susan Carlisle Bell, professor of art; Dr. Cindy Miller, professor of nursing; Stephen Sain, associate registrar.

Fourteen employees received 10-year service awards: Brian Baker, head coach, track and field and cross country; Jim Corn, head coach, women’s tennis; Dr. Chris Davis, professor of English; Beth Davis, data coordinator for undergraduate admissions; Dr. Stefka Eddins, professor of biology; Dr. Paul Etter, director of choral activities and professor of music; Dr. Linda Greene, professor of psychology and counseling; Dr. David Judge, professor of biology; Dr. Jim Lawrence, professor of communications, coordinator of video and film; Wayne Merritt, manager of campus shop and post office; Dr. Teresa Phillips, professor of Spanish; Mary Roby, dean of libraries; Amanda Smith, assistant director of GOAL admissions; Dr. Carroll Smith, professor of education.

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