BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—An enthusiastic campus community welcomed Gardner-Webb's New Vice President for Athletics and Athletic Director Brendan Michael Fahey on Sept. 9 in Tucker Student Center. Fahey, a leader who inspires excellence in academics and athletics, comes to GWU after a championship-winning career at Wagner College in Staten Island, N.Y. He has over 20 years of experience in higher education athletics with 15 years as a senior level administrator at the Division I level.

"It is a joy to see this energy on campus today, and I want to thank you for being here as we celebrate the start of a new chapter for Gardner-Webb Athletics," observed Interim GWU President Nate Evans. "Athletics is often called the front porch of the university. It's where many people first encounter who we are—whether at a competition, on ESPN, or in the enthusiasm of our student-athletes. That front porch says a great deal about the life and health of an institution. That's why today is so significant. We welcome Brendan Fahey as our new Athletic Director."

Evans thanked the Marching Bulldogs for setting the tone with their spirited music. He also recognized the members of the search committee for their dedication and careful work to bring Fahey to Gardner-Webb. "Brendan comes to Gardner-Webb with a strong track record of success in Division I athletics administration," Evans praised. "What has already impressed me most about Brendan is his energy and immediate engagement with people. In just a short time, he has been reaching out to donors, connecting with our coaches, and listening to staff—building relationships that will help us move forward together."

Fahey began his comments by thanking everyone for their support during the interview process and transition period. Before singling out individuals, Fahey acknowledged, "First and foremost, my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ—He has given me the strength, guidance and foresight throughout my life and He will continue to lead me into this new era."

Next, he thanked his wife, Ashley, and daughters, Maisy and Elle, his parents, Kevin and Jeanne, and sister, Caitlin. "As I talked a lot about during the search process, family is so important to me and guides all of my decisions," Fahey related. "Both of my parents had long careers in higher education, and I was fortunate to have been on a college campus most of my childhood. It led me to realize that I never wanted to have a job, but I wanted to have a career in something I was passionate about and could make a difference in people's lives. Those experiences pushed me toward my career in college athletics."

Next, he thanked his colleagues at Wagner for the impact they made on his life and career. He included the past four presidents and the former athletic director, who was his mentor and role model, Walt Hameline. Then, he expressed his appreciation to the Gardner-Webb search committee, Evans, Interim Athletic Director Chuck Burch, cabinet members, and others.

"I take great pride and understanding of the responsibility and commitment of accepting this important leadership role," Fahey asserted. "As the college athletics and higher education landscape is constantly a fluid situation, I recognize how important this position is for our institution, coaches, student-athletes, support staff and alumni. I plan to implement a vision of holistic excellence within our department that extends past just wins and losses."

Fahey listed his goals for the GW Athletic Department and student-athletes: Athletic success, academic success, and the student-athlete experience. "Every decision, every resource allocation and every bit of energy we expend will be geared toward supporting those three goals," he emphasized. "We must chase each of these goals with competitiveness, thoughtfulness, integrity and have a never-ending desire to continue to improve each day. I also value and never lose sight of the reason that I am standing here today. And that reason is our student-athletes. I will invest a lot of time and energy in supporting our student-athletes towards excellence in competition and in the classroom."

Fahey became Wagner's athletic director in 2022, and in just three years, the Seahawks captured 10 Northeast Conference (NEC) championships, including a record-setting four titles in 2023–'24. His leadership delivered historic milestones such as the school's best-ever NEC Commissioner's Cup finish (second place in 2024–25), a men's basketball NEC Championship, and the program's first NCAA tournament victory. Also, the field hockey program secured its first-ever regular season championship.

While building competitive success, Fahey also emphasized academics and student support. More than 600 student-athletes were named to the NEC honor roll over three years, and 12 earned NEC Scholar-Athlete of the Year recognition. He implemented a student-athlete fueling station, and added an athletic-specific mental health counselor to further enhance the student-athlete experience.

A native of Connecticut, Fahey earned his Bachelor of Science in Sport Management from the University of Connecticut and his Master of Science in Athletic Administration from Marshall University, where he also served as an athletic marketing graduate assistant. He began his career at Wagner in 2006 as assistant athletic director for marketing and promotions before advancing to deputy director of athletics in 2009, with responsibilities for both internal and external operations. He was also sport administrator for Wagner's first-ever conference championships in women's swimming and diving, women's lacrosse, and men's track and field. He was also responsible for adding eight sports over an eight-year period.

The members of the search committee included:

• Dr. Josh Parrott, Vice President and University Chaplain for Christian Life and Service.
• Jeffrey Merrill, Assistant Athletics Director for Compliance.
• Chris Reisert, Head Football Coach.
• Dr. Sharon Webb, Professor, Counselor Education, Chair, Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program and Faculty Athletics Representative.
• Daniel Elliott, Head Wrestling Coach.
• Terri Williams, Head Women's Basketball Coach.

Gardner-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., Gardner-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 Gardner-Webb.edu.