A Legacy Marked by Faith and Firsts: Honoring Dr. Elizabeth Saunders

Some individuals weave themselves into the very fabric of their communities, enriching and enhancing it with each passing year. Dr. Elizabeth Saunders, the first Black student, graduate and faculty member at Freed-Hardeman University, was such an individual — a vibrant and vital part of the tapestry of faith, education and love that characterizes the FHU experience. Although she passed away in early August, her impact endures as a testament to her groundbreaking achievements, humble service and steadfast devotion. Her legacy will be further commemorated with the opening of The Saunders Center, a new student center dedicated to digital innovation, serving as a lasting reminder of her exemplary life. According to those who knew her best — colleagues, church members, friends and former students — Dr. Saunders’ legacy will continue to thrive.

A True Trailblazer in Her Profession

Dr. Saunders was universally recognized by her colleagues as “organized,” “a difference maker” and a “trailblazer.” Dr. Linda Wright, whose friendship with Saunders began in 1982, reflected on how their paths intersected through academic pursuits. “We had the privilege of using computers in our classes — a novel experience for both of us at the time,” Wright recalled.

“Dr. Saunders’ meticulous efforts were crucial in developing the curriculum for Freed-Hardeman’s Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) degree,” Wright noted, adding that Saunders played a pivotal role in the school of education’s accreditation and program development. “She even secured grants to provide essential stipends for minority teachers in surrounding counties,” Wright said.

FHU Chancellor Dr. Milton Sewell described Saunders as possessing a “quiet dignity,” emphasizing her ability to teach both the art of education and the art of living. “She uplifted us; that was her nature. She was well-traveled and incredibly knowledgeable,” Sewell remarked, highlighting her popularity. “When she ran for the Henderson Board of Aldermen, she received the most votes,” he noted, citing her 14 years of service.

Her contributions extended beyond FHU; she was a cherished figure in the Henderson and Chester County community, according to FHU Vice President Dave Clouse. “She was a true legend, not just at Freed-Hardeman but throughout Chester County and West Tennessee. Her numerous firsts, along with her service to the community, church and the thousands of students she taught and mentored, have created a legacy that will endure for generations.”

Elizabeth Saunders' yearbook photo sits alongside the 1967 summer commencement program.

Elizabeth Saunders teaches a class while on a mission trip. During her lifetime, Saunders traveled to more than 23 countries.

Dedication to Church and Community

At the North Henderson Church of Christ, where she worshipped, Saunders worked tirelessly to ensure the church’s 100th anniversary celebration was well-organized, even during her illness. Her cousin, Edna Johnson, shared that she put in considerable effort on the 39-page application to include Vincent High School on the National Registry of Historic Places, a school that held historical significance from 1950 to 1969 as an institution for local African American students in Chester County.

Those close to her understood her deep commitment to this project. Amie Croom and her mother, Ethel, who attended church with Saunders, expressed their gratitude. “She was a mother figure to me, broadening my horizons through her mission trips; she would return with pictures and souvenirs,” Amie said.

Ethel credited Saunders with saving her life by encouraging her to see a doctor during her illness. “I had a brain aneurysm, and even in her last days, she looked out for me — she called me her sister.” Saunders participated in many Bible studies at church and read her large print Bible daily while walking on her treadmill during her private prayer time.

Elizabeth Saunders was the Bellmaster in 2018 at FHU. She was honored for her 40 years of service to the university.

From Students to Colleagues

Dr. Elizabeth Saunders went on several mission trips in her lifetime, often teaching youth and adults.

Former students described Saunders as “tough” in the classroom. “She had a reputation for being strict, and we were quite intimidated by her,” recalled Dr. Sharen Cypress, a professor of education and dean of the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences at FHU. “As students, she made us all very nervous.” For Sharen and her twin sister, Dr. Karen Cypress, an associate professor of education at FHU, this was from 1987 to 1991. They returned to FHU in 1998, where they developed a strong working relationship with Saunders, who became their mentor.

Former students Sarah and Troy Leland also remember Saunders as challenging but recognized her dedication to excellence. “In Dr. Saunders, I saw a woman who loved God, cared about people and strived to give her best in everything she did,” Sarah shared. “She didn’t do things halfway; she lived by the principle of ‘Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might’ (Ecclesiastes 9:10).”

Sarah is now a stay-at-home mom homeschooling her children, while Troy works as a Make Ready Engineer II in the telecom industry. “Dr. Saunders genuinely cared,” he said, noting that her dedication shone through in every class.

For the Cypress sisters, transitioning from students to colleagues was a remarkable experience. “It was a blessing to have known this precious soul. She embodied what it means to be a good Christian woman and taught us many invaluable lessons,” Karen reflected. They traveled with Saunders on various international trips.

“Her intelligence was not just academic; it was evident in how she connected with life, traveling the world with passion and teaching us to appreciate each moment as an adventure,” Sharen said. Saunders visited over 25 countries during her lifetime, with a map documenting her travels displayed in her home office, alongside pictures of her adventures.

Their bond extended beyond the classroom and mission field, as the sisters were by Saunders’ side in her final days. “It was a tremendous blessing to be there for her, to express our gratitude for her profound impact on our lives, and to show her how much we loved our honorary Big Sister!”

The lessons imparted by Saunders continue through the Cypresses and those they mentor, emphasizing the importance of organization, turning challenges into opportunities and appreciating the beauty of preparation. “She was a tough teacher with a heart full of joy. She reminded us that the journey is just as important as the destination, encouraging us to excel while celebrating the richness of life along the way,” Sharen said.

To contribute to the Saunders-Ruth Memorial Endowed Scholarship, please send a check to the Office of Development at Freed-Hardeman University, 158 East Main Street, Henderson, TN 38340, and designate the scholarship.

Dr. Elizabeth Saunders taught for more than 40 years and began her career teaching youth and adults how to read.