GU mourns the passing of Dave Holden, dean of graduate and adult studies, assistant track and field coach

Published: January 24, 2022

Greenville University is mourning the death of Dave Holden, 60, who served in a variety of academic and administrative positions during his 27 years at the institution. He died Monday evening.

Most recently, Holden served as the dean of graduate and adult studies, but he previously held positions of assistant professor in the School of Education, special adviser to the president, and the university’s faculty athletic representative. He also served on the Senior Administrative Leadership Team during President Ivan Filby’s administration, on the President’s Council of current President Suzanne Davis’ administration, and on several faculty committees.

His wife, Teresa, also is an employee of the University, serving as the dean of general education and associate professor of history and political science. They have three children, Lindsey, Ashley, and David.

President Davis said Holden’s contributions to the University have been significant and far-reaching. “Dave’s dedicated service to GU over the years has been key to our efforts to maintain accreditation, start new programs, and carry out the mission of the institution,” Davis said. “His service to both GU and the local community has shown the love of Christ to so many around him.” 

Holden completed a bachelor’s in business administration and a master’s in physical education, both at the University of Southern California. He was a member of the USC football team during his undergraduate years and served as a graduate assistant football coach while pursuing his master’s. He joined the GU faculty in 1995, then earned a doctorate in education from Nova Southeastern University in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, in 2005. 

In addition to his academic work at Greenville University, Holden served as an assistant track coach, specializing in hurdles. He also coached cross-country at Greenville High School for many years.

Brian Hartley, dean of faculty and chief academic officer, said the following in a letter to the GU faculty and staff on Tuesday morning: “Dave has been an integral part of our academic leadership team, and his large presence has sustained many of us in our time of need. I would ask that you honor Dave’s commitment to Christ and love for the institution by reaching out to one another today and reminding your co-workers of your love for them and of their intrinsic worth in God’s sight, just as Dave did with so many of us.”

A celebration of life service will be held on Sunday, January 30 2022 at 2:00pm in the Crum Recreation Center on Greenville University Campus. 

Please be in prayer for the Holden family.