Gathering for a New Chapter:FHU’s Winter Graduation Ceremony Honors Tradition, Perseverance and Achievement
For 113 graduates, Friday, Dec. 13, 2024, was more than just a milestone—it was the culmination of years of hard work, perseverance and faith. Freed-Hardeman University’s winter graduation ceremony, held at the Henderson Church of Christ, conferred degrees across a range of disciplines, including 61 bachelor’s, 30 master’s, six doctorates, 11 associate and five specialist certificates. This year’s ceremony was unique, as it was the first since 1977 to be held outside of Loyd Auditorium due to ongoing renovations. Despite the change in venue, the warmth of family, friends and faculty created an atmosphere of celebration and gratitude.
President David R. Shannon set a reflective tone for the day, inviting graduates to appreciate those who supported them along the way. “None of you here are self-made,” Shannon said. “Pause and think about the family members, teachers and mentors who sowed into you. Whisper a prayer of thanksgiving.” He also encouraged graduates to remain connected to FHU. “We want you to come back—be a part of the FHU family for as long as you live. Let’s make a deal today: strive for excellence, walk every step with the Lord and use every opportunity for His glory.”
During the ceremony, Dan Chang, a summa cum laude pre-med graduate, read three scriptures selected by the class: Proverbs 3:5-6, Jeremiah 29:11 and Philippians 4:13. “The class selected these scriptures to encourage each other to hold on to God in this next chapter and to look for strength in Him,” said Chang, who plans to take a gap year to prepare for the MCAT while working at a hospital in Atlanta.
“Completing this chapter feels good, but I’m also sad because this place has been such a significant part of my life,” he said. “FHU is an amazing place. The mentors, the friendships, and the opportunities I found here shaped me in ways I’ll always be thankful for.”
Among the many graduate stories was Renee Wilson, a mom and grandmother, who completed her bachelor’s in psychology after starting and pausing her studies multiple times while raising a family and balancing work. She began her undergraduate journey at FHU in 1998, but life’s demands led her to step away. In 2023, Wilson returned determined to finish her degree while juggling her responsibilities at Encare in Jackson, where she works in behavioral analysis, helping youth in transition through the Department of Children’s Services.
“This accomplishment means everything to me,” Wilson said, reflecting on her journey. With plans to pursue a master’s degree in the next six months, she expressed gratitude for the unwavering support of her family and coworkers, many of whom attended the ceremony to celebrate her achievement. “I appreciate the professors because they were so understanding when I had work calls and had to step out of class. I had a lot of restless nights balancing homework, classes and meetings, but I’m so grateful to have completed my degree.”
For many graduates, the day marked both academic achievements and personal growth. Brinley Cousar, who earned her Bachelor of Science in special education, reflected on her top moments at FHU, which included passing the rigorous EdTPA exam, recovering from shoulder surgery and helping her softball team win the Spring 2024 conference championship. Cousar is set to begin her teaching career in Tipton County, where she’ll work in a resource classroom. “It’s been an incredible journey,” Cousar said. “The people at FHU made this experience unforgettable, and having both my family and my fiancé’s family at my graduation means the world to me.”
For communication major Michael Rolen, graduation marked the culmination of his studies in a field he’d discovered a passion for—sports communications. A few of Rolen’s favorite moments at FHU included the Chick-fil-A announcement event in chapel and the days he spent exploring campus with friends. Academically, he said, “Special Topics in Persuasion was my favorite class. It taught me how to think critically about how messages influence people.”
Meanwhile, Noah Johnson, who received an Associate of Applied Science degree in physical therapy, felt both relief and excitement as he prepared to take his board exams. “Helping people regain their mobility and independence is something I’ve always wanted to do,” he said. Johnson plans to begin his career in Memphis, where he hopes to make a positive impact in his field.
In closing the commencement, President Shannon reminded the graduates of their role as lifelong ambassadors of FHU. “We have an influence on each other from today going forward—intelligence, heart, character and work ethic. Let people get to know you and, in doing so, you make FHU known.”
The ceremony not only celebrated the academic achievements of 113 individuals but also underscored the university’s enduring commitment to faith, scholarship and service, sending graduates into the world equipped to lead, serve and make a difference.