WebbChat: Sound Stories is a companion series within the WebbChat podcast, bringing written stories from Gardner-Webb University’s NewsCenter to life through sound.

In this episode, we spotlight Dr. Aaron Rice, Associate Professor of Music and Chair of the Department of Music at Gardner-Webb University. Honored with the University’s Rising Star Award, Rice reflects on music as a form of connection, creativity, and leadership — both in the classroom and beyond.

Reported by Jeff Powell and Jackie Bridges, this immersive audio story offers a deeper look at the people, like Rice, who are shaping life at Gardner-Webb.

Discover more stories from across campus at Gardner-Webb.edu/News, and you can find connections to all GWU podcasts at gardner-webb.edu/podcast.

Music on this episode:

Yehezkel Raz - Flight of the Inner Bird

Yotam Agam - Spectral Type O

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#MusicEducation #ArtsOnCampus #CreativeLeadership #FacultySpotlight #MusicMatters

#NewsCenter #CampusLife #HigherEdStories #AudioStorytelling #NPRStyle

#GardnerWebbMusic

One year can change everything.

In this episode of The Bulldog Mindset, host Greg Pillar sits down with Gardner-Webb University President Nate Evans at a pivotal moment in the life of the institution. In Feb. 2025, Evans stepped into the presidency during a season of transition at interim. Today, with a longer horizon ahead, and as the 14th President of Gardner-Webb, Evans reflects on what it means to lead with steadiness when clarity is still forming.

This dialogue goes beneath the surface of titles and timelines, exploring trust, communication, faith, and the work required to hold a university steady in changing times. Evans shares how his background in the military and advancement shaped his leadership approach, how he thinks about the academic experience Gardner-Webb must deliver for today’s students, and why unity, mission, and people remain at the center of every decision.

It’s an honest, thoughtful dialogue about leadership rooted in care, conviction, and long-term purpose.

Theme music: “Honey for Nothing” by Ikoliks

Tune in now to explore how curiosity, mentorship, and hands-on experience are shaping student success at Gardner-Webb. Learn more about GWU’s podcast series at gardner-webb.edu/podcast.

#BulldogMindset #GardnerWebb #Leadership #HigherEd #AcademicLeadership #OneWebb #PurposeDriven #UniversityLife #GWUPodcast

In the pilot episode of Parrott’s Perch, Noel T. Manning II sits down with Dr. Josh Parrott for a thoughtful and engaging conversation about faith, calling, and leadership at Gardner-Webb University.

Parrott shares his personal Christian walk, his journey back to Gardner-Webb as vice president and university chaplain, and his vision for nurturing spiritual life, service, and church relations across campus. From meaningful moments in ministry to reflections on community, calling, and care, this dialogue sets the tone for what Parrott’s Perch hopes to be — a place for honest dialogue, encouragement, and connection.

Recorded at the historic Elliott House on the Gardner-Webb University campus, this pilot episode invites listeners into a relaxed yet purposeful space where stories matter and faith meets daily life.

Theme Music: “You Can Tell” by Max Hixon

Explore More Gardner-Webb Podcasts:

Find the full list of Gardner-Webb University podcasts at gardner-webb.edu/podcast, featuring conversations on faith, leadership, athletics, academics, and campus life.

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#CampusMinistry

#GardnerWebbUniversity

#HigherEdVoices

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