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{{short description|Private university in Henderson, Tennessee, U.S.}}
{{short description|Private university in Henderson, Tennessee, U.S.}}
{{more citations needed|date=June 2010}}
{{use dmy dates|date=July 2023}}
{{Infobox university
{{Infobox university
|name = Freed–Hardeman University
| name = Freed–Hardeman University
|image = Freed-hardeman university logo.png
| image = Freed-hardeman university logo.png
|image_size = 173px
| image_size = 173px
|motto = How to Live and Make a Living
| motto = How to Live and Make a Living
|established = {{start date and age|1869}}
| established = {{start date and age|1869}}
|type = [[Private university]]
| type = [[Private university]]
|religious_affiliation = [[Churches of Christ]]
| religious_affiliation = [[Churches of Christ]]
|president = David Shannon
| president = David Shannon
|city = [[Henderson, Tennessee]]
| city = [[Henderson, Tennessee]]
|country = United States
| country = United States
|undergrad = 1,850
| undergrad = 1,850
|postgrad = 433
| postgrad = 433
|students = 2,283
| students = 2,283
|faculty =
| faculty =
|endowment = $62.4 million (2020)<ref>As of June 30, 2020. {{cite report |url=https://www.nacubo.org/-/media/Documents/Research/2020-NTSE-Public-Tables--Endowment-Market-Values--FINAL-FEBRUARY-19-2021.ashx |title=U.S. and Canadian Institutions Listed by Fiscal Year 2020 Endowment Market Value and Change in Endowment Market Value from FY19 to FY20 |publisher=National Association of College and University Business Officers and [[TIAA]] |date=February 19, 2021 |access-date=February 21, 2021}}</ref>
| endowment = $118.8 million (2024)<ref>{{cite report |url=https://www.nacubo.org/-/media/Documents/Research/2020-NTSE-Public-Tables--Endowment-Market-Values--FINAL-FEBRUARY-19-2021.ashx |title=U.S. and Canadian Institutions Listed by Fiscal Year 2020 Endowment Market Value and Change in Endowment Market Value from FY19 to FY20 |publisher=National Association of College and University Business Officers and [[TIAA]] |date=19 February 2021 |access-date=21 February 2021}}</ref>
|colors = {{color box|#6f2d3d}} {{color box|#ffd700}}<br>Maroon & Gold
| colors = {{color box|#6f2d3d}} {{color box|#ffd700}}<br>Maroon and gold
|campus = Rural, {{cvt|96|acre}}
| campus = Rural, {{cvt|96|acre}}
|former_names = Henderson Male Institute (1869–1907)<br>National Teachers' Normal and Business College (1907–1919)<br>Freed–Hardeman College (1919–1990)
| former_names = Henderson Male Institute (1869–1907)<br>National Teachers' Normal and Business College (1907–1919)<br>Freed–Hardeman College (1919–1990)
|athletics_affiliations = [[National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics|NAIA]] – [[Mid-South Conference|Mid-South]]
| athletics_affiliations = [[National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics|NAIA]] – [[Mid-South Conference|Mid-South]]
|sports_nickname = Lions
| sports_nickname = Lions
|website = {{URL|www.fhu.edu}}
| website = {{URL|www.fhu.edu}}
}}
}}
⚫
'''Freed–Hardeman University''' is a [[private university]] associated with the [[Churches of Christ]] and located in [[Henderson, Tennessee]]. It is primarily [[undergraduate]] and residential. The university also serves some commuting, part-time and adult students on-campus and through distance-learning programs.


⚫
The university is governed by a board of trustees, all of whom are required to be members of Churches of Christ. Courses are offered by 12 academic departments in 5 colleges: Arts and Sciences, Biblical Studies, Business, Education and Behavioral Sciences, and the Honors College.
⚫
'''Freed–Hardeman University''' is a [[private university]] associated with the [[Churches of Christ]] and located in [[Henderson, Tennessee]]. It is primarily [[undergraduate]] and residential, enrolling full-time students of traditional college age. The university also serves some commuting, part-time, and adult students on-campus and through distance-learning programs. The university offers a limited number of master's and doctoral level graduate programs including Bible, Business, Counseling and Education. Arts, science, and professional degrees are conferred.

⚫
The university is governed by a board of trustees, all of whom are required to be members of Churches of Christ. Courses are offered by 12 academic departments organized into six schools: Arts and Humanities, Biblical Studies, Business, Education, Sciences and Mathematics, and the Honors College.

Freed–Hardeman offers European study abroad programs based out of the FHU facility in Verviers, Belgium during the fall and spring semesters. A study abroad and Spanish-language immersion program is offered in Madrid, Spain, during most summer semesters. Other opportunities include two and three week study programs in Israel, Costa Rica, New York City, Stratford, Canada, and Seoul, South Korea.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.fhu.edu/academics/abroad/south-korea|title=South Korea|website=www.fhu.edu|access-date=Mar 15, 2020}}</ref>


==History==
==History==
[[Image:FreedHardemanUniversityBellTower.jpg|thumb|right|upright|The Bell Tower]]
[[Image:FreedHardemanUniversityBellTower.jpg|thumb|right|upright|The Bell Tower]]
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Freed–Hardeman traces its origin to the 1869 charter of a private high school and college for Henderson, the '''Henderson Male Institute'''. It was known at various times as the '''Henderson Masonic Male and Female Institute''', '''West Tennessee Christian College,''' or '''Georgie Robertson Christian College'''. It was named Georgie Robertson Christian College after George Ann "Georgie" Robertson.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.therestorationmovement.com/robertson.htm |title=John Franklin Robertson |website=The Restoration Movement |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110927135833/http://www.therestorationmovement.com/robertson.htm |archive-date=2011-09-27 |access-date=24 July 2023 |url-status=dead }}</ref>


⚫
In the 1907 spring term Georgie Robertson Christian College closed. [[N. B. Hardeman]], a Georgie Robertson Christian College alumnus, and A. G. Freed worked together to establish a new institution, the '''National Teachers' Normal and Business College''' to fill the educational void created in Henderson by the closing. The NTNBC was incorporated on May 21, 1907, but classes did not start until the fall of 1908. In 1919, it was renamed '''Freed–Hardeman College''' in honor of its founders. In February 1990, it became Freed–Hardeman University.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.fhu.edu/about/history |title=History and Mission |publisher=Freed–Hardeman University |access-date=15 March 2020}}</ref>
⚫
Freed–Hardeman traces its origin to the 1869 charter of a [[private school|private]] [[high school]] and [[college]] for Henderson, the '''Henderson Male Institute'''. It was known at various times as the '''Henderson Masonic Male and Female Institute''', '''West Tennessee Christian College''' and '''Georgie Robertson Christian College'''. It was named Georgie Robertson Christian College after George Ann "Georgie" Robertson, the daughter of J. F. Robertson and his wife the former Lucy Alice Hamlett. When Georgie died at age 21 her parents donated $5000 to West Tennessee Christian College in her memory and so the school was renamed after her.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.therestorationmovement.com/robertson.htm |title=page about Georgie Robertson |access-date=2011-02-05 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110927135833/http://www.therestorationmovement.com/robertson.htm |archive-date=2011-09-27 |url-status=dead }}</ref>


⚫
The college did not accept African-American students until 1964, when its president, Hubert A. Dixon, stated that black students would be admitted in response "to the mistake of accepting federal funds".<ref>{{Cite book |last=Key |first=Barclay |title=Race & restoration: Churches of Christ and the Black freedom struggle |date=2020 |publisher=Louisiana State University Press |isbn=978-0-8071-7274-2 |series=Making the modern South |location=Baton Rouge (La.)}}</ref> The first black graduate was Elizabeth Saunders in 1967.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.jacksonsun.com/story/news/local/2018/08/17/freed-hardemans-first-black-grad-bell-master/37517853/ |title=Freed-Hardeman's first black grad to be bell master |work=Jackson Sun |date=2018-08-17 |access-date=2022-05-02}}</ref>
⚫
In the spring term of 1907, Georgie Robertson Christian College closed down. [[N. B. Hardeman]], a Georgie Robertson Christian College alumnus, and A. G. Freed worked together to establish a new school, the '''National Teachers' Normal and Business College''' to fill the educational void created in Henderson by the closing of GRCC. The NTNBC was incorporated on May 21, 1907, but classes did not start until the fall of 1908. In 1919, it was renamed '''Freed–Hardeman College''' in honor of its founders. In February 1990, it became '''Freed–Hardeman University'''.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.fhu.edu/about/history|title=History and Mission|website=www.fhu.edu|access-date=Mar 15, 2020}}</ref>


The university offers courses outside of the Henderson area in [[Memphis, Tennessee]].<ref>{{cite web |title=FHU / Memphis |url=https://www.fhu.edu/memphis |publisher=Freed–Hardeman University |access-date=2020-05-20}}</ref> It also offers European study abroad programs based at the FHU facility in [[Verviers]], Belgium. Other opportunities include programs in Spain, Israel, Costa Rica, New York City, Canada, and Seoul.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.fhu.edu/academics/abroad/south-korea |title=South Korea |publisher=Freed–Hardeman University |access-date=March 15, 2020}}</ref>
⚫
The college did not accept African-American students until 1964, when President Hubert A. Dixon stated black students would be admitted in response "to the mistake of accepting federal funds."<ref name="integration">{{cite web |last1=Key |first1=Barclay |title=Race and Restoration: churches of Christ and the African American Freedom Struggle |url=http://etd.fcla.edu/UF/UFE0019542/key_b.pdf |access-date=29 December 2018|page=146}}</ref> The first black graduate was Elizabeth Saunders in 1967.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.jacksonsun.com/story/news/local/2018/08/17/freed-hardemans-first-black-grad-bell-master/37517853/ |title=Freed-Hardeman's first black grad to be bell master |publisher=Jacksonsun.com |date= |accessdate=2022-05-02}}</ref>


⚫
The university was granted an exception to [[Title IX]] in 2016 allowing discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity where conflict exists with religious tenets.<ref name="CampusPride">{{cite web |url=https://www.campuspride.org/worstlist/ |title=Worst List: The Absolute Worst Campuses for LGBTQ Youth |website=Campus Pride |date=17 May 2019 |access-date=August 23, 2021}}</ref>
The university offers courses outside of the Henderson area in [[Memphis, Tennessee]]<ref>{{cite web|title=FHU / Memphis|url=https://www.fhu.edu/memphis|website=www.fhu.edu|language=en|access-date=2020-05-20}}</ref>


⚫
During the 2019–2020 academic year, the university celebrated its 150th anniversary<ref>{{cite web |title=FHU to Begin 150th Year with Tolling of the Bell |url=https://www.fhu.edu/news/fhu-to-begin-150th-year-with-tolling-of-the-bell |publisher=Freed–Hardeman University |access-date=2020-05-20}}</ref> and a volume of university history, ''By the Grace of God: The Story of Freed–Hardeman University'', was published.<ref>{{Cite book |last=Massey |first=Greg |title=By the grace of God : The story of Freed-Hardeman University |publisher=Abilene Christian University |year=2020 |isbn=978-1-68426-101-7 |location=Abilene, Texas |oclc=1137598222}}</ref>
The university was granted an exception to [[Title IX]] in 2016 which allows it to legally discriminate against LGBT students.<ref name="CampusPride" />


==Campus buildings==
⚫
During the 2019–2020 academic year, the university celebrated its 150th Anniversary.<ref>{{cite web|title=News + Events|url=https://www.fhu.edu/news/fhu-to-begin-150th-year-with-tolling-of-the-bell|website=www.fhu.edu|language=en|access-date=2020-05-20}}</ref> In conjunction with the anniversary, a significant volume of university history (''By the Grace of God: The Story of Freed–Hardeman University'') was published.<ref>{{Cite book|last=Massey, Greg|url=https://www.worldcat.org/oclc/1137598222|title=By the grace of God : The story of Freed-Hardeman University|publisher=Abilene Christian University, 2020|others=Massey, Greg.|year=2020|isbn=978-1-68426-101-7|location=Abilene, TX|oclc=1137598222}}</ref>
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[[File:National Teacher's Normal and Business College Administration Building.JPG|thumb|The [[National Teacher's Normal and Business College Administration Building]] now known as the Old Administration Building, also affectionately called "Old Main", is listed on the [[National Register of Historic Places]].]]
Loyd Auditorium is the main auditorium on campus and is used for Daily Chapel, FHU Lectureships, sports banquets, and the annual Homecoming Play.<ref name="auto">{{cite web |url=https://www.fhu.edu/academics/colleges/ArtsAndSciences/FineArts/Theatre |title=Theatre (B.A.) |publisher=Freed–Hardeman University |access-date=Mar 15, 2020}}</ref>


The Hope Barber Shull Academic Resource Center, opened in 2016, houses the Loden-Daniel Library, a café, and other resources.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Freed-Hardeman University, Hope Barber Shull Academic Resource Center |url=https://esarch.com/portfolio/freed-hardeman-university-hope-barber-shull-academic-resource-center/ |website=ESa architecture firm}}</ref>
==Dormitories==
All students at Freed–Hardeman University must live on campus unless approved by the administration.<ref name="auto1">FHU Student Handbook http://www.fhu.edu/Libraries/SFcatalog_Main/2014-2015_Undergraduate_Catalog.sflb.ashx {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141013024938/http://www.fhu.edu/Libraries/SFcatalog_Main/2014-2015_Undergraduate_Catalog.sflb.ashx |date=2014-10-13 }}</ref> Generally these approvals are under special circumstances including, but not limited to, age, marriage, disability, or academic purposes. Students must be at least 22 years of age to apply for off campus housing unless otherwise approved by administration.<ref name="auto1"/>


Opposite Old Main is Crews Colbert Activity Center. It has two theaters, "Maroon Theater" and "Gold Theater", and a large activity room used for activities and meetings.<ref name="auto"/>
[[Image:GeorgieRobertsonCollege.JPG|right|thumb|The late Milan-Sitka Building, 1904, during which it was Georgie Robertson Christian College.]]
The university has five women's dormitories. Hall-Roland Hall (originally Oakland Hall) is the oldest residence hall, capable of housing 62. The ground floor houses Graduate Studies in Counseling and the Department of Behavioral and Consumer Sciences. H. A. Dixon Hall is a four-story dormitory opened in 1958. It can house 136 women. Thomas E. and LaVonne B. Scott Hall opened in 1971 and can house 152 women. In 1973 W. A. Bradfield Hall opened, housing 144 women. Porter-Terry Hall opened in 1977 and can house 156 women.

There are four men's dormitories. Paul Gray Hall was built in 1929 and can house 128 men on four floors and was re-opened in the fall of 2022 after renovations. Opened in 1970, [[George S. Benson]] Hall can accommodate 152 men. Farrow Hall opened in 1973 and has a capacity for 178 men. Sewell Hall opened on January 13, 2007, and can house 200 men. Upon the opening of Sewell Hall, L. L. Brigance Hall, which could house 78 men, was demolished in 2013.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.fhu.edu/seasons/masterplan_sp14.aspx |title=FHU Seasons |publisher=Fhu.edu |date= |accessdate=2022-05-02}}</ref>

Two additional residence halls were built in 2003: Tyler Residence Hall (for Women) and the Woods-East Residence Hall (for Men). These Residence halls are considered Privileged housing. Privileged housing is open only to upperclassmen. Students wishing to live in Privileged housing must complete an application and meet certain requirements including a 3.1 GPA. The rooms in these residence halls have four bedrooms, two bathrooms, a kitchen (with a microwave, oven, stove, and refrigerator), a washer and dryer, and a living room. Four students share this living space, each one with their own bedroom, and sharing a bathroom with one roommate.

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==Campus buildings<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.fhu.edu/about/visit/map|title=Campus Map|website=www.fhu.edu|access-date=Mar 15, 2020}}</ref>==
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[[File:National Teacher's Normal and Business College Administration Building.JPG|thumb|The [[National Teacher's Normal and Business College Administration Building]] now known as the Old Administration Building, also affectionately called "Old Main," is listed on the [[National Register of Historic Places]].]]

The Student Center opened in 1966 and houses a variety of food services and recreational rooms. The first floor houses the Burks Center. The center contains a food center, post office, Career Resource Center, Student Association office, Student Services office, and Office of Student Life and Development. The main cafeteria, Wallace-Gano Dining Hall, is located on the second floor.

'''Clayton Chapel''', a red brick and stained glass building located on University Street, opened in 1992. It has a capacity of approximately 100. It may be reserved for devotionals and weddings.

The '''Brown-Kopel Business Center''', was the start of many technology additions to the classroom that eventually began to be added to classrooms in other buildings. This is also where the majority of non-biblical classes are taken.

The '''Bulliner-Clayton Visual Arts Center''' opened in Fall 2007. Each year this building houses senior art exhibits, as well as many alum, local, and other art exhibits. This also is where the fine arts classes are held, except those that are music related, and can range from photography, painting, drawing, and graphic design.

The '''Brewer Sports Center''' is the athletic center of Freed–Hardeman University. This building has three racquetball courts, two basketball courts, a weight training room, walking track, and offices for the Athletic Department administration.

The '''Anderson Science Center''' was built in 2012. Money was given by alumnus Tom Anderson to create the facility which houses a large portion of the science department.

Future plans include an expansion and renovation of the '''Associates Science Center''' to facilitate and house the new nursing program.

'''Loyd Auditorium''' is the main auditorium on campus and is used for many of the activities on campus, including: Makin' Music, Daily Chapel, FHU Lectureships, sports banquet speakers, benefit dinner speakers, and the annual Homecoming Play.<ref name="auto">{{cite web|url=https://www.fhu.edu/academics/colleges/ArtsAndSciences/FineArts/Theatre|title=Theatre (B.A.)|website=www.fhu.edu|access-date=Mar 15, 2020}}</ref> The auditorium can seat approximately 3,000 people.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.fhu.edu/Libraries/SFcatalog_Main/FHU_UCAT_089.sflb.ashx |title=Archived copy |access-date=2014-11-11 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130617085308/http://www.fhu.edu/Libraries/SFcatalog_Main/FHU_UCAT_089.sflb.ashx |archive-date=2013-06-17 |url-status=dead }}</ref> It consists of a lower bowl as well as a balcony that is split into four sections and can be separated by large curtains.

The '''Hope Barber Shull Academic Resource Center''', opened in 2016, houses the Loden-Daniel Library, KC's Coffeehouse, and the university tutoring center, named in honor of longtime librarian Hope Barber Shull.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.fhu.edu/seasons/stories/hopes-dream|title=Opening Day for the Hope Barber Shull Academic Resource Center: First Looks at Hope's Dream|website=FHU Seasons|access-date=Mar 15, 2020}}</ref>

Aside from the main buildings, Freed–Hardeman also has several recreational areas on campus. The weight room in Brewer's Sports Center is often overcrowded by the various student athletes, so many students go to the Main Street Student Gym a block west of Old Main. Across from Old Main is a campus theater named Crews Colbert Activity Center (or simply Crews). Crews has two theaters labeled "Maroon Theater" and "Gold Theater", and above the theaters is a large activity room used for open space activities and meetings. Next door to Crews is the Blackbox Theatre. This theatre is used for drama classes as well as all the plays put on by the theatre department each year aside from the Homecoming play.<ref name="auto"/>


==Student life==
==Student life==
Freed–Hardeman does not have [[fraternities and sororities]] in the traditional sense. Instead, the university has co-educational social clubs. These are local only to Freed–Hardeman and have no connection to any national Greek system. Students participate in intramural sports, club meetings and devotionals with their respective clubs.
Full-time students are required to take at least one Bible class every semester and attend a daily chapel service.
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<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.fhu.edu/campusLife/socialLife/socialClubs |title=Social Clubs |publisher=Freed–Hardeman University |access-date=March 15, 2020}}</ref>


Social Clubs: Sigma Rho (ΣP), Phi Kappa Alpha (ΦKA), Omega Chi (ΩX), Chi Beta Chi (XBX), Xi Chi Delta (ΞXΔ)
Freed–Hardeman does not have [[fraternities and sororities]] in the traditional sense. Instead the university has co-ed social clubs. These social clubs are local only to Freed–Hardeman and have no connection to any national Greek system. These include Sigma Rho, Phi Kappa Alpha, Chi Beta Chi, Xi Chi Delta, and Omega Chi. Students participate in intramural sports, club meetings, and devotionals with their respective clubs. Sigma Rho and Phi Kappa Alpha are the only original social clubs remaining of the original 5 that were on campus, as well as being the two oldest. Sigma Rho has been on Campus for 104 years (celebrating their 100-year anniversary in 2012) and Phi Kappa Alpha has been on Campus for 77 years (celebrating their 75-year anniversary in 2014).<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.fhu.edu/campusLife/socialLife/socialClubs|title=Social Clubs|website=www.fhu.edu|access-date=Mar 15, 2020}}</ref>

Other University Organizations include: [[Student Government Association]], "The Pride", Campus Delegate Team, University Program Council, [[Student Alumni Association]], University Chorale, Ambassadors, Art Guild, Students in Free Enterprise, Law Society, [[Lambda Pi Eta]], [[Society for Future Accountants]], [[Social Work Students in Action]], National Broadcast Society, Communications Majors and Minors Association (COMMA), Pied Pipers, For Heaven's Sake, [[Pi Epsilon]], [[Alpha Chi]], Dactylology Club, [[Right to Life]], Tabitha Club, Preacher's Club, Evangelism Forum, Psychological Affiliation, Math & Computer Science Club, Biology Club, [[WFHU]] 91.5 FM, TV40, and the Treasure Chest.

The school's newspaper was originally called the ''Skyrocket'' and was begun in 1923. The newspaper was renamed the ''New Edition'' briefly in 1972. After a name selection contest, it was renamed the ''Bell Tower'' and was published 12 times throughout the year before being discontinued. The school's yearbook is called the ''Treasure Chest''. The yearbook is now issued in the form of a DVD and is accompanied by a photo directory. The university's radio station, [[WFHU|WFHU, 91-FIVE]], is the 10,500-watt [[FM broadcasting|FM]] [[stereophonic sound|stereo]] station.

==Spiritual life==
Campus-Wide devotionals are held every Monday and Thursday nights at 10:30 pm.

Gazebo singings were organized every Sunday night at 10:00 pm in the gazebo on Main Street. (the Gazebo was moved to the local park in the Spring of 2012)

Every other Wednesday Night at 10:00 pm, students meet in Clayton Chapel for Clayton Chapel Singing.


==Rankings==
==Rankings==
[[U.S. News & World Report]] ranked Freed–Hardeman 35th among Southern master's degree-granting universities in its 2013 overall rankings. It also included the school in its separate affordability ranking ("Great Schools, Great Prices"), listing it 13th among Southern master's degree-granting universities. The university reported a 44% acceptance rate of applicants for the fall 2012 semester.
''[[U.S. News & World Report]]'' included the university in its affordability ranking ("Great Schools, Great Prices"), listing it 13th among Southern master's degree-granting universities.{{cn|date=July 2023}} The university reported a 44% acceptance rate of applicants for the fall 2012 semester.{{update needed|date=July 2023}}

⚫
The university is ranked among the "Absolute Worst Campuses for [[LGBT]]Q Youth" by [[Campus Pride]].<ref name="CampusPride">{{cite web |url=https://www.campuspride.org/worstlist/ |title=Worst List: The Absolute Worst Campuses for LGBTQ Youth |author=<!--Not stated--> |website=Campus Pride |access-date=August 23, 2021 |quote=}}</ref>


The university is ranked among the "Absolute Worst Campuses for [[LGBT]]Q Youth" by ''[[Campus Pride]]''.<ref name="CampusPride"/>
==Annual benefit dinner and speaker==
Each year, on the first Friday in December, the university hosts a fundraising dinner featuring well-known speakers, such as Baseball Hall of Famer [[Cal Ripken Jr.]], former Presidents [[Gerald R. Ford]] and [[George H. W. Bush]], TV personality [[Regis Philbin]], retired General [[Norman Schwarzkopf]], Olympic gold medalist [[Mary Lou Retton]], Senator [[Elizabeth Dole]], former US Senate Majority Leader and physician, Dr. [[Bill Frist]], popular radio commentator [[Paul Harvey]], NBC Today Show weatherman [[Willard Scott]], NFL football player, commentator & actor [[Merlin Olsen]], country comedian [[Jerry Clower]], former Alabama head coach [[Gene Stallings]], historic CBS-TV News anchor and reporter [[Walter Cronkite]], former First Lady [[Barbara Bush (First Lady)|Barbara Bush]], former NBC News Anchor and former Meet the Press moderator [[Tom Brokaw]] and most recently Emmy Award-winning comedian [[Tim Conway]]. On Saturday, May 15, 2010, Freed–Hardeman University announced that the featured speaker for the 2010 Annual Benefit Dinner would be former President [[George W. Bush]]. Robby Novak, aka [[Kid President]], was an MC at this event


==Athletics==
==Athletics==
The Freed–Hardeman athletic teams are called the Lions and Lady Lions. The university is a member of the [[National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics]] (NAIA), primarily competing in the [[Mid-South Conference]] (MSC) since the 2020–21 academic year. The Lions and Lady Lions previously competed in the [[American Midwest Conference]] from 2013–14 to 2019–20; and in the [[TranSouth Athletic Conference]] (TranSouth or TSAC) from 1996–97 to 2012–13; and in the [[Tennessee Collegiate Athletic Conference]] (TCAC) from 1986–87 to 1995–96.
The Freed–Hardeman sports teams are called the "Lions" and "Lady Lions". The university is a member of the [[National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics]] (NAIA),<ref>{{cite web |title=Members |url=https://www.naia.org/schools/files/2022-23_NAIA_Institutions.pdf |publisher=National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics |access-date=8 March 2023}}</ref> primarily competing in the [[Mid-South Conference]] (MSC) since the 2020–21 academic year.<ref>{{cite news |title=Mid-South Conference adds three new full-time members |url=https://www.bgdailynews.com/sports/mid-south-conference-adds-three-new-full-time-members/article_b59f0387-a41c-55f8-8104-9941c0d94e71.html |work=Bowling Green Daily News |access-date=8 March 2023}}</ref> The Lions and Lady Lions previously competed in the [[American Midwest Conference]] from 2013–14 to 2019–20, in the [[TranSouth Athletic Conference]] (TranSouth or TSAC) from 1996–97 to 2012–13 and in the [[Tennessee Collegiate Athletic Conference]] (TCAC) from 1986–87 to 1995–96.


Freed–Hardeman competes in 16 intercollegiate varsity sports: Men's sports include baseball, basketball, cross country, golf, soccer, tennis and track & field; while women's sports include basketball, cheerleading, cross country, golf, soccer, softball, tennis, track & field and volleyball.
Freed–Hardeman competes in 16 intercollegiate varsity sports. Men's sports include baseball, basketball, cross country, golf, soccer, tennis and track & field. Women's sports include basketball, cheerleading, cross country, golf, soccer, softball, tennis, track & field and volleyball.


===Men's basketball===
===Men's basketball===
In 2014, men's basketball coach Jason Shelton was awarded the [[Don Meyer]] Award, presented annually to the top NAIA coach in college basketball.<ref>{{cite web|title=THE DON MEYER AWARD|url=http://www.donmeyeraward.com/|publisher=College Insider|access-date=7 April 2014}}</ref>
In 2014, the men's basketball coach, Jason Shelton, was awarded the [[Don Meyer]] Award, presented annually to the top NAIA coach in college basketball.<ref>{{cite web |title=THE DON MEYER AWARD |url=http://www.donmeyeraward.com/ |work=College Insider |access-date=7 April 2014}}</ref>

In 2024, the men's basketball team won the NAIA National Championship, defeating Langston University 71-67.


===Women's basketball===
===Women's basketball===
On March 20, 2018, the Lady Lions basketball team captured their first [[NAIA Women's Basketball Championships|NAIA National Championship]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.naia.org/sports/wbkb/2017-18/releases/2018032199vdo|title=After 21 Trips, Freed-Hardeman (Tenn.) Wins National Championship|date=Mar 21, 2018|website=NAIA|access-date=Mar 15, 2020}}</ref> The Lady Lions defeated Westmont 76–64.
On 20 March 2018, the Lady Lions basketball team won its first [[NAIA Women's Basketball Championships|NAIA National Championship]],<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.naia.org/sports/wbkb/2017-18/releases/2018032199vdo |title=After 21 Trips, Freed-Hardeman (Tenn.) Wins National Championship |date=March 21, 2018 |publisher=NAIA|access-date=March 15, 2020}}</ref> defeating [[Westmont College]] 76–64.


==Notable alumni and faculty==
==Notable alumni and faculty==
{{refimprove|section|date=August 2024}}
* [[Carl Bell (musician)|Carl Bell]], guitarist and songwriter for the band [[Fuel (band)|Fuel]]
* [[Gracia Alonso de Armiño|Grace Alonso de Armiño]], Spanish professional basketball player, 3x3 Olympian
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* [[George S. Benson]], president of [[Harding University]]
* [[Carl Bell (musician)|Carl Bell]], musician
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* [[John W. Brown (corporate executive)|John Brown]], former CEO of Stryker Corporation
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* [[George S. Benson]], university administrator
* [[T. Jeff Busby]], Democratic congressman from Mississippi
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* [[John W. Brown (corporate executive)|John Brown]], businessman
* [[T. Jeff Busby]], politician
* [[John Dale (minister)|John Dale]], minister
* [[John Dale (minister)|John Dale]], minister
* [[John DeBerry]], minister, and member of [[Tennessee House of Representatives]]
* [[John DeBerry]], minister and politician
* [[Todd Farmer]], screenwriter and actor (''[[Jason X]]'', ''[[My Bloody Valentine 3D|My Bloody Valentine]]'')
* [[Todd Farmer]], screenwriter and actor
* [[Kerby Farrell]], former MLB player for the Boston Braves (1943) and Chicago White Sox (1945)
* [[Kerby Farrell]], baseball player
* [[Dorsey B. Hardeman]], politician
* [[Dorsey B. Hardeman]], son of university founder N. B. Hardeman; member of both houses of the [[Texas State Legislature]]; former mayor of [[San Angelo, Texas|San Angelo]], Texas
* [[Jere Hargrove]], member of [[Tennessee House of Representatives]]
* [[Jere Hargrove]], politician
* [[Hugo McCord]], preacher and Bible scholar (taught at Freed–Hardeman)
* [[Hugo McCord]], Bible scholar
* [[Dianne Odell]], iron lung survivor
* [[Dianne Odell]], iron lung survivor
* [[Charles P. Roland]], historian<ref>''Who's Who in America, 1982-1983'' ([[Chicago, Illinois|Chicago]], [[Illinois]]: Marquis Who's Who, 1982), p. 2844</ref>
* [[Charles P. Roland]], historian<ref>{{cite book |title=Who's Who in America, 1982-1983 |location=Chicago, Illinois |publisher=Marquis Who's Who |date=1982 |page=2844}}</ref>
* [[Rubel Shelly]], author, minister, and former president of [[Rochester College]]
* [[Rubel Shelly]], author and college administrator
* [[Thomas B. Warren]], FHU faculty member, Restoration theologian, and religious philosopher
* [[Thomas B. Warren]], theologian
* [[Sue Shelton White]], national feminist leader and suffragist lawyer
* [[Sue Shelton White]], suffragist lawyer


==References==
==References==
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==External links==
==External links==
* {{Commons category-inline|Freed-Hardeman University}}
* {{Commons category-inline|Freed-Hardeman University}}
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* {{official|http://www.fhu.edu}}

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* [http://www.fhu.edu Official website]
* [http://www.gofhulions.com Official athletics website]
* [http://www.gofhulions.com Official athletics website]



{{American Midwest Conference navbox}}
{{American Midwest Conference navbox}}
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[[Category:Private universities and colleges in Tennessee]]
[[Category:Private universities and colleges in Tennessee]]
[[Category:Education in Chester County, Tennessee]]
[[Category:Education in Chester County, Tennessee]]
[[Category:Educational institutions established in 1869]]
[[Category:Universities and colleges established in 1869]]
[[Category:Universities and colleges accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools]]
[[Category:Universities and colleges accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools]]
[[Category:Buildings and structures in Chester County, Tennessee]]
[[Category:Buildings and structures in Chester County, Tennessee]]

Latest revision as of 06:08, 13 December 2024

Freed–Hardeman University
Former names
Henderson Male Institute (1869–1907)
National Teachers' Normal and Business College (1907–1919)
Freed–Hardeman College (1919–1990)
MottoHow to Live and Make a Living
TypePrivate university
Established1869; 155 years ago (1869)
Religious affiliation
Churches of Christ
Endowment$118.8 million (2024)[1]
PresidentDavid Shannon
Students2,283
Undergraduates1,850
Postgraduates433
Location
Henderson, Tennessee
,
United States
CampusRural, 96 acres (39 ha)
Colors   
Maroon and gold
NicknameLions
Sporting affiliations
NAIA – Mid-South
Websitewww.fhu.edu

Freed–Hardeman University is a private university associated with the Churches of Christ and located in Henderson, Tennessee. It is primarily undergraduate and residential. The university also serves some commuting, part-time and adult students on-campus and through distance-learning programs.

The university is governed by a board of trustees, all of whom are required to be members of Churches of Christ. Courses are offered by 12 academic departments in 5 colleges: Arts and Sciences, Biblical Studies, Business, Education and Behavioral Sciences, and the Honors College.

History

[edit]
The Bell Tower

Freed–Hardeman traces its origin to the 1869 charter of a private high school and college for Henderson, the Henderson Male Institute. It was known at various times as the Henderson Masonic Male and Female Institute, West Tennessee Christian College, or Georgie Robertson Christian College. It was named Georgie Robertson Christian College after George Ann "Georgie" Robertson.[2]

In the 1907 spring term Georgie Robertson Christian College closed. N. B. Hardeman, a Georgie Robertson Christian College alumnus, and A. G. Freed worked together to establish a new institution, the National Teachers' Normal and Business College to fill the educational void created in Henderson by the closing. The NTNBC was incorporated on May 21, 1907, but classes did not start until the fall of 1908. In 1919, it was renamed Freed–Hardeman College in honor of its founders. In February 1990, it became Freed–Hardeman University.[3]

The college did not accept African-American students until 1964, when its president, Hubert A. Dixon, stated that black students would be admitted in response "to the mistake of accepting federal funds".[4] The first black graduate was Elizabeth Saunders in 1967.[5]

The university offers courses outside of the Henderson area in Memphis, Tennessee.[6] It also offers European study abroad programs based at the FHU facility in Verviers, Belgium. Other opportunities include programs in Spain, Israel, Costa Rica, New York City, Canada, and Seoul.[7]

The university was granted an exception to Title IX in 2016 allowing discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity where conflict exists with religious tenets.[8]

During the 2019–2020 academic year, the university celebrated its 150th anniversary[9] and a volume of university history, By the Grace of God: The Story of Freed–Hardeman University, was published.[10]

Campus buildings

[edit]
The National Teacher's Normal and Business College Administration Building now known as the Old Administration Building, also affectionately called "Old Main", is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Loyd Auditorium is the main auditorium on campus and is used for Daily Chapel, FHU Lectureships, sports banquets, and the annual Homecoming Play.[11]

The Hope Barber Shull Academic Resource Center, opened in 2016, houses the Loden-Daniel Library, a café, and other resources.[12]

Opposite Old Main is Crews Colbert Activity Center. It has two theaters, "Maroon Theater" and "Gold Theater", and a large activity room used for activities and meetings.[11]

Student life

[edit]

Freed–Hardeman does not have fraternities and sororities in the traditional sense. Instead, the university has co-educational social clubs. These are local only to Freed–Hardeman and have no connection to any national Greek system. Students participate in intramural sports, club meetings and devotionals with their respective clubs. [13]

Social Clubs: Sigma Rho (ΣP), Phi Kappa Alpha (ΦKA), Omega Chi (ΩX), Chi Beta Chi (XBX), Xi Chi Delta (ΞXΔ)

Rankings

[edit]

U.S. News & World Report included the university in its affordability ranking ("Great Schools, Great Prices"), listing it 13th among Southern master's degree-granting universities.[citation needed] The university reported a 44% acceptance rate of applicants for the fall 2012 semester.[needs update]

The university is ranked among the "Absolute Worst Campuses for LGBTQ Youth" by Campus Pride.[8]

Athletics

[edit]

The Freed–Hardeman sports teams are called the "Lions" and "Lady Lions". The university is a member of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA),[14] primarily competing in the Mid-South Conference (MSC) since the 2020–21 academic year.[15] The Lions and Lady Lions previously competed in the American Midwest Conference from 2013–14 to 2019–20, in the TranSouth Athletic Conference (TranSouth or TSAC) from 1996–97 to 2012–13 and in the Tennessee Collegiate Athletic Conference (TCAC) from 1986–87 to 1995–96.

Freed–Hardeman competes in 16 intercollegiate varsity sports. Men's sports include baseball, basketball, cross country, golf, soccer, tennis and track & field. Women's sports include basketball, cheerleading, cross country, golf, soccer, softball, tennis, track & field and volleyball.

Men's basketball

[edit]

In 2014, the men's basketball coach, Jason Shelton, was awarded the Don Meyer Award, presented annually to the top NAIA coach in college basketball.[16]

In 2024, the men's basketball team won the NAIA National Championship, defeating Langston University 71-67.

Women's basketball

[edit]

On 20 March 2018, the Lady Lions basketball team won its first NAIA National Championship,[17] defeating Westmont College 76–64.

Notable alumni and faculty

[edit]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ U.S. and Canadian Institutions Listed by Fiscal Year 2020 Endowment Market Value and Change in Endowment Market Value from FY19 to FY20 (Report). National Association of College and University Business Officers and TIAA. 19 February 2021. Retrieved 21 February 2021.
  2. ^ "John Franklin Robertson". The Restoration Movement. Archived from the original on 27 September 2011. Retrieved 24 July 2023.
  3. ^ "History and Mission". Freed–Hardeman University. Retrieved 15 March 2020.
  4. ^ Key, Barclay (2020). Race & restoration: Churches of Christ and the Black freedom struggle. Making the modern South. Baton Rouge (La.): Louisiana State University Press. ISBN 978-0-8071-7274-2.
  5. ^ "Freed-Hardeman's first black grad to be bell master". Jackson Sun. 17 August 2018. Retrieved 2 May 2022.
  6. ^ "FHU / Memphis". Freed–Hardeman University. Retrieved 20 May 2020.
  7. ^ "South Korea". Freed–Hardeman University. Retrieved 15 March 2020.
  8. ^ a b "Worst List: The Absolute Worst Campuses for LGBTQ Youth". Campus Pride. 17 May 2019. Retrieved 23 August 2021.
  9. ^ "FHU to Begin 150th Year with Tolling of the Bell". Freed–Hardeman University. Retrieved 20 May 2020.
  10. ^ Massey, Greg (2020). By the grace of God : The story of Freed-Hardeman University. Abilene, Texas: Abilene Christian University. ISBN 978-1-68426-101-7. OCLC 1137598222.
  11. ^ a b "Theatre (B.A.)". Freed–Hardeman University. Retrieved 15 March 2020.
  12. ^ "Freed-Hardeman University, Hope Barber Shull Academic Resource Center". ESa architecture firm.
  13. ^ "Social Clubs". Freed–Hardeman University. Retrieved 15 March 2020.
  14. ^ "Members" (PDF). National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics. Retrieved 8 March 2023.
  15. ^ "Mid-South Conference adds three new full-time members". Bowling Green Daily News. Retrieved 8 March 2023.
  16. ^ "THE DON MEYER AWARD". College Insider. Retrieved 7 April 2014.
  17. ^ "After 21 Trips, Freed-Hardeman (Tenn.) Wins National Championship". NAIA. 21 March 2018. Retrieved 15 March 2020.
  18. ^ Who's Who in America, 1982-1983. Chicago, Illinois: Marquis Who's Who. 1982. p. 2844.
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35°26′18″N 88°38′19″W / 35.43844°N 88.63864°W / 35.43844; -88.63864

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