Honor Hall_ Mellbye

DR. EARL LEININGER - PROVOST

A native of Fort Smith, Arkansas, Earl Leininger worked with the senior administration from 2002-2006. Leininger was responsible for supervising academic affairs and handling such vital issues as faculty personnel concerns – including recruitment, promotion and tenure; budget requests and needs; and academic programming initiatives. The Provost’s Office also supports the efforts of the faculty to ensure that the mission of the University’s academic excellence is achieved.

Leininger has undergraduate degrees in Speech, Theatre and Psychology from Oklahoma Baptist University as well as an undergraduate degree in Theology from Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, Louisville, KY. He also holds a Ph.D. in Philosophy and Theology from Southern Baptist.

He has traveled extensively to Europe, Asia, Africa and the Americas, studying, leading student groups, and teaching. His publications and presentations cover a broad range of topics, including: theology, philosophy, pedagogy, educational objectives, and the role of the liberal arts education. He has a long history in repertory theater, and is known to play a very competent game of racquetball.

Prior to coming to Gardner-Webb, Leininger served at Mars Hill College for over 30 years. At Mars Hill, he was a faculty member, dean of the faculty and vice president for academic affairs and dean of the college. Leininger makes his home in Weaverville, NC with his wife Cathy. They have three children and five grandchildren.

Dr. Darlene Gravett, Associate Provost for Schools, stated “I was delighted that Dr. Leininger was our Provost. In the time we have worked together, I have found him to be a person of integrity who makes wise decisions and who has a great sense of humor.”

He will be missed throughout the University, but especially in the School of Business. He has been a constant source of help and inspiration for the mission of the school, and a friend to the faculty and staff alike.