More Than Numbers: Students Find Purpose in FHU's Growing Financial Planning Program

For students in Freed-Hardeman University’s Personal Financial Planning program, success translates from lessons into the professional world where they have the confidence to begin challenging careers well prepared for what’s ahead. That realization has drawn a growing number of students to the program — and their experiences are fueling remarkable momentum. Over the past 18 months, enrollment has tripled, with 34 students majoring in Personal Financial Planning last fall, reflecting both rising student interest and an increasing demand for qualified financial advisors nationwide.

For Ruth Johnson, the program’s impact reaches far beyond academics. “The Financial Planning program at Freed-Hardeman has helped mold me in almost every aspect of my life,” Johnson said. “The variety of classes, teaching styles and life experiences of the professors has given me a wider perspective of the world and shown me how to use my skills not only to make a living, but also to live.”

Johnson recently became one of only 12 students nationwide selected for a competitive CFP Board scholarship, an honor that included an educational and networking experience in Washington, D.C. Most recipients represented nationally recognized programs such as Kansas State University and Utah Valley University — placing Freed-Hardeman among elite company in financial planning education.

Her takeaway from the experience mirrors the program’s philosophy. “Just start,” she said. “You are never going to feel fully ready at the beginning of something that has the potential to be great. Sometimes the best preparation is to pray, gather information and begin while trusting that God will equip you along the way.”

A Helping Profession

Amy Sewell, CFP®, instructor in FHU’s College of Business and coordinator of the program, says students are drawn to financial planning because it aligns naturally with the university’s mission. “Personal financial planning is a natural fit for Freed-Hardeman students,” Sewell said. “They see it as a helping profession where they walk alongside clients, guiding them to be wise stewards and helping them reach both their personal and financial goals.”

As a CFP Board Registered Program, graduates meet the educational requirements needed to sit for the Certified Financial Planner® examination — the profession’s premier credential. The program benefits from five CFP®-certified instructors who combine academic instruction with real-world industry experience, preparing students for both technical and relational aspects of the field. Many students complete multiple internships before graduation, creating direct pathways into careers.

Learning Beyond the Classroom

Opportunities for professional growth extend outside class through the Student Financial Planning Association, which meets monthly and regularly hosts industry professionals.

At a recent meeting, more than 30 students gathered to hear from Chris Hallmark, an FHU Board of Trustees member with more than 25 years of experience as a financial advisor. His message emphasized that financial planning is fundamentally relational. “Get comfortable talking with people who are different from you,” Hallmark told students. “Money is emotional. When people start talking about finances, it leads to discussions about family, concerns and life goals. We’re in the relationship business.”

Junior Mackenzie Cottrill, Student FPA president and a double major in personal financial planning and accounting, said exposure to professionals at different career stages helps students envision their futures. “It gives us different perspectives on what the career really looks like,” she said.

Relationships Open Doors

For senior Nick O’Connor, those connections translated directly into opportunity. “My experience in Freed-Hardeman’s Personal Financial Planning program has been excellent,” O’Connor said. “I’ve learned so much from in-class projects, expertise from my professors and guest speakers.”

His biggest lesson echoes Hallmark’s advice. “Financial planning is more about the people than it is about the numbers,” he said. “If you cannot establish a relationship with the client and communicate effectively, then it is all for nothing.”

After hearing a presentation from Jay Dryden’s firm, Vector Wealth Strategies in Huntsville, Alabama, O’Connor secured an interview that led to a virtual internship. He also received a summer internship offer with HCA Healthcare, crediting the communication and networking skills developed through the program.

From Student to Certified Professional

FHU alumnus Marshall Dearing, class of 2020, represents what the program looks like several years after graduation. Now a senior advisor and Certified Financial Planner® at Vector Wealth Strategies, he credits Freed-Hardeman with preparing him through a blend of technical knowledge and interpersonal skills. “The CFP curriculum gave me the foundation,” Dearing said. “But learning to listen — to coworkers and especially to clients — is what makes the difference.”

After interning during his junior and senior years, Dearing began his career as an associate advisor in 2020 and is expected to become a partner in 2026. Today, he leads internship development within VWS, mentoring students entering the profession. “No day is the same,” he said. “You’re helping people through major life transitions. That’s what makes the work meaningful.”

A Growing Network of Mentors

Industry engagement continues to strengthen the program. Board of Trustees members Lee Johnson, CPA, CFP® and Jay Dryden, CFP®, actively support students through teaching, mentoring and recruitment opportunities. Dryden hosts an annual on-campus seminar introducing students to the profession while connecting them with internships and career pathways.

For Johnson, that integration of faith, service and professional preparation defines the program’s impact. “I feel prepared and blessed to begin my walk in the finance industry,” she said. “What I’ve learned here has given me confidence, skills and a network that will shape my future.”

As enrollment continues to grow, the program’s success points to a simple truth its students have already discovered: Financial planning is not merely about managing money — it is about serving people, building trust and helping others pursue lives of purpose and stewardship.

“Our growing network of alumni and industry partners gives our students access to mentors, internships and career opportunities,” said Michael Prentice, CPA, CFP®, FHU finance instructor. “We are equipping students not only with the education and credentials they need to succeed, but with the character to make a real difference in people’s lives.”