HENDERSON, TN (06/25/2025)-- Approximately 334 students took part in the ceremony which was held Saturday, May 17, 2025. The total includes 11 associate's, 253 baccalaureate degree recipients and 59 who completed graduate degrees. The total also includes 11 licensures, certificates and specialists.

The following student from your coverage area was among the graduates:

Carly Vance, of Smithville, TN, graduated Alpha Chi Honors College Scholar Summa Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing.

During the ceremony, FHU President David R. Shannon addressed an auditorium full of smiling graduates and guests, reminding them of the significance of the moment. "Commencement is a time to stand on a bridge where we have the wonderful opportunity to reflect back on what you have enjoyed over the past few years and what you have achieved," he said. "But it is also a time to point forward, hopefully with optimism and excitement."

FHU Board of Trustees member Jay Dryden delivered the keynote address to the graduates. Dryden is a university alumnus, philanthropist and co-founder of Vector Wealth Strategies in Huntsville, Alabama. As a Certified Financial Planner, Dryden partially credits his entrepreneurial spirit to his great-grandfather David Thomas Dryden, namesake of the newly renovated campus auditorium.

He encouraged graduates to see every chosen life path as a chance to spread their faith. "One thing I believe that God has really been teaching me is that my work, your work, the career that you're about to launch out into-that is your greatest ministry opportunity."

The mission of Freed-Hardeman University is to help students develop their God-given talents for His glory by empowering them with an education that integrates Christian faith, scholarship and service. With locations in Henderson and Memphis, FHU offers associate, bachelor's, master's, specialist's and doctoral degrees. More information is available at fhu.edu.