Founded by North Carolina Baptists in 1905, Gardner-Webb University employs individuals who participate in and wholeheartedly support Christian values.

Associate Minister to the University for Athletic Ministries

Gardner-Webb University invites applicants for the full-time position of Associate Minister to the University for Athletic Ministries. This position reports directly to the Vice President for Christian Life and Service and University Chaplain.

The Associate Minister supports the motto of the University, Pro Deo et Humanitate, and the mission of the Office of Christian Life and Service by fulfilling the Great Commission, expanding the Kingdom of God, and engaging in practical acts of service both locally and globally.

This Associate Minister oversees a multifaceted, Gospel-centered, athletic ministry to the University’s student-athletes and coaches, and coordinates community engagement opportunities for faculty, staff, and students.

Founded by North Carolina Baptists in 1905, Gardner-Webb University employs individuals who participate in and wholeheartedly support Christian values.

Associate Minister to the University for Athletic Ministries

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Oversee the program development for all community engagement efforts on campus by groups, clubs, organizations, athletic teams, classes, and campus housing participants.
Serve as a liaison between campus organizations, and academic/administrative/athletic departments and community agencies/organizations.
Consistently attend athletic events and practices in order to build caring relationships and be a consistent and faithful presence in the lives of student-athletes and coaches (may require travel).
Encourage student-athlete participation in opportunities sponsored by CMU and FCA.
Recruit, manage, and independently lead volunteer team chaplains/character coaches.
Offer pastoral care and informal counseling to student-athletes and coaches and refer long-term counseling needs to University counselors.
Coordinate with The Office of Financial Planning through the work-study program and match student volunteers with specific needs in the community.
Collaborate with Dimensions, UNIV 111 courses, and other University faculty to consolidate, organize, and link service-learning activities to community engagement opportunities.
Oversee the successful execution of University community engagement traditions such as The United Way Campaign, Octoberfest, and Special Olympics.
Lead and manage a mission trip sponsored by The Office of Christian Life and Service (Fall, Spring, or Summer).
Serve as an instructor for any student given permission to take Dimensions Course by Arrangement (CBA).
Attend Tuesday Dimensions programs, assist with program needs, and maintain a productive learning environment.
Serve as a positive Christian role model for faculty, staff, and students.

Required Education, Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university required and master’s degree from an accredited seminary or divinity school preferred.
Experience in ministry to undergraduate students and a demonstrated understanding of their needs is required.
A growing knowledge of NCAA and institutional policies and procedures that relate to and impact athletic ministries.
Significant awareness of and involvement with collegiate athletics and its culture.
Demonstrated capability in positively engaging undergraduate student population.
Competent in using social media platforms.
Ability to work evenings and weekends as needed and appropriate.
Effectively present information (written and oral).
Listens to faculty, staff, and students to help clarify needs (spiritual, emotional, social, academic, etc.).
Familiarity with the range of services provided by the University for effective referral when needed.
Strong interpersonal and organizational skills.
Relates well to faculty, staff, students, and community partners.

Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.

Candidates should submit a letter of interest, a resume, and three references to:

Dr. Josh Parrott

Vice President for Christian Life and Service and University Chaplain

Gardner-Webb University

P.O. Box 7301

Boiling Springs, NC 28017

Electronic submissions should be sent to jparrott@gardner-webb.edu

Gardner-Webb University is a Christian university committed to helping individuals become more in faith, learning, and service. Located in Boiling Springs, North Carolina, GWU offers the benefits of a close-knit community with easy access to Charlotte, Asheville, and the greater Greenville-Spartanburg region.

Founded in 1905 and rooted in the Baptist tradition, the University now serves approximately 3,000 students across more than 80 undergraduate and graduate programs. As a Carnegie Doctoral/Professional institution, Gardner-Webb is dedicated to academic excellence, leadership development, and meaningful service to others.

Our community reflects a shared commitment to One Webb, creating an environment where people support one another, pursue their purpose, and work together to make a lasting impact. GWU attracts students from across the nation and around the world and competes in NCAA Division I athletics with 22 teams and more than 500 student-athletes.

Apply Now