FHU Convocation Celebrates Longtime Faculty and Staff

As Freed-Hardeman University prepared for the new academic year, faculty and staff filled Ayers Auditorium for an afternoon of reflection, celebration and anticipation. The convocation, led by President David R. Shannon, focused on the university’s mission and the guiding role of faith in its community.

President Shannon shared his hopes for the year ahead, drawing inspiration from James 1:17: “Every good and perfect gift is from above.” He encouraged the FHU family to seek God’s blessings and remain steadfast in their commitment to faith, service and education. “I pray that God will continue to provide us with faculty and staff who first love Him, who love His church and His people, and who also love Freed-Hardeman and what they get the opportunity to do here,” Shannon remarked.

During the ceremony, a total of 39 faculty and staff members were recognized for their milestone years of service to the university.

Those being recognized for five years of service were Trent Adams, Stewart Brackin, Jodi Bradshaw, Leah Brumback, Adam Cross, Stephanie Duncan, Chris Gann, Roger Hale, Maitlin Huet, Will McFall, Letiticia Ortega Ibarra, Tony Parham, Parker Pearce, Tim Roberts, Timberly Singleton, Heidi Sprouse and Kimberly Street.

Recognized for five years of service

Celebrating 10 years of service were Jared Collins, James Dalton, Leslie Harris, Alan Kinningham, Juana Plunk and Lisa Raine. Additionally, Jonathan Estes, Paul Helton, Courtney Insell, Kay Pack, William Tucker and Chris White were honored for 15 years with FHU.

Recognized for 25 years of service

Christy Hardin and Susan White were acknowledged for 20 years of service, while Tony Allen, LeAnn Davis, Mike Johnson, Greg Maples, Gayle McDonald, Nadine McNeal, Margaret Payne and Arika Young were honored for an impressive 25 years of serving students.

Collectively, these individuals represent 480 years of combined service to Freed-Hardeman University.

As the ceremony concluded, President Shannon encouraged faculty and staff to keep their focus on the university’s core mission: “Our mission is still to help students develop their God-given talents for His glory by empowering them with an education,” he said. “We have the blessing of being a part of a tremendous education because it’s not just for the mind. We integrate three things: our Christian faith, scholarship and service. And I want to encourage you not only to model those traits throughout the year but also to speak about them in your classes. When we stop talking about our beliefs, we often stop believing. And when we stop believing, we stop doing. So let’s make sure that we never stop talking about and living out our faith.”