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Meet Greg Pillar

Motivational keynotes and engaging workshops that go beyond inspiration to drive real action and change.

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I’m Greg, a student-centered leader committed to reshaping higher education for the modern learner. These are the working adults, first-generation students, career-changers, digital natives, and traditional undergraduates, many of whom are already navigating jobs, transfer credits, and family obligations.

I bring deep experience in academic operations, curriculum design, and building innovative programs that help students succeed, both now and in the future. I believe institutions must do more than educate. They must become lifelong partners in personal growth and career development. That means rethinking how we serve students of all ages and aligning our systems to support access, equity, engagement, and employment.

My work focuses on helping colleges and universities deliver not just one transformative experience but many, creating places where learners return again and again. Together, we can unlock the full potential of your staff, faculty, and institution and put it on the path to long-term success.

Deep Expertise

Combining rigorous research with real-world insights from over 20 years in higher education and 16 years in higher education administration, I have a deep understanding of the challenges you face and proven success overcoming them.

Collaboration

Using a collaborative and inclusive leadership style that is grounded in integrity, I provide a fresh perspective and facilitate real conversations that motivate effective teams, foster engagement and drive real change.

Actionable Solutions

I don’t just diagnose the problem. I work alongside your team to implement practical strategies that build institutional resilience, strengthen collaboration across units, and deepen engagement with the modern learner. These efforts lay the groundwork for long-term impact and sustainable success.

My Areas of Expertise

  • Operational and Financial Leadership in Academic and Student Affairs
  • Enrollment, Retention, and Student Success
  • Curriculum Development, Assessment, and Oversight
  • Undergraduate, Graduate, and Continuing Education Across Multiple Modalities
  • Program Development, Evaluation, and Sunset Strategy
  • Accreditation Reaffirmation, Leadership and Compliance
  • Inclusive Excellence and Equity-Centered Practices
  • Faculty Support, Development, and Personnel Leadership
  • Bold and Innovative Initiatives at the Program, College/School, and University Level

My Background & Experience

I have extensive leadership experience across university operations, accreditation, and academic innovation. My work has included advancing initiatives connected to Division I athletics transitions, student support services, international and global education experiences, community engagement, undergraduate research, and academic programs for high-achieving students. I have also led efforts to strengthen advising, career development, and student success across all levels. I lead through collaboration, clear communication, and a deep commitment to building structures that support student learning and institutional sustainability.

Currently, I bring recognized expertise in higher education administration, leadership development, and student success strategy—shaped by years of experience in academic affairs, cross-unit collaboration, and institutional planning.

In prior roles, I have served as a faculty member in Chemistry and Environmental Sciences, Department Chair, Program Director, Assistant Provost for University Programs, and Associate Provost for Academic Affairs. I currently serve as Assistant Provost for Academic Affairs at Gardner-Webb University, where I provide strategic direction for academic programs, operations, and student experiences at both the undergraduate and graduate level. I hold the rank of full professor and have previously held the William S. Lee Professorship.

My academic background is in environmental chemistry and agronomy. I have provided consulting expertise on the environmental fate of contaminants in soil, water, and air systems, mentored more than 30 student research and course-embedded projects, and remain a sought-after speaker on sustainability in our food system and environment as well as an expert for media stories on environmental chemistry (e.g. water quality, environmental contaminants) and our global food system.

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My Educational Credentials

Ph.D. in Agronomy (Environmental Chemistry)
University of Georgia

M.S. in Agronomy (Soil Science)
University of Georgia

B.S. in Environmental Science (Soil Science & Hydrology)
University of Minnesota

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Certificate
Cornell University

Senior Leadership Academy
AALI, CIC, and Academic Search

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Let’s Connect

Contact me today for a no-obligation, pressure-free conversation that could put your higher education institution on the path to long-term success.

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