Approximately 334 students took part in the ceremony which was held Saturday, May 17, 2025. The total includes 11 associates, 253 baccalaureate degree recipients and 59 who completed graduate degrees. The total also includes 11 licensures, certificates and specialists.

Samuel Burt of Tullahoma graduated with a Bachelor of Science.

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.”

Freed-Hardeman University has also released the names of students who made the President’s and Dean’s Lists for the Spring 2025 semester. To be on the President’s List, a student must be full-time and have a 4.0 grade point average. Students on the Dean’s List have earned a minimum 3.4 grade point average for the semester.

Maggie Crouch, a Junior from Manchester is on the President’s list. Crouch is studying Communication Sciences & Disorders

Makenzi Oliver, a Senior from Manchester is on the Dean’s list. Oliver is studying Family Science: Family Science & Family Life Education

Paige Brown, a Junior from Manchester is on the Dean’s list. Brown is studying Mathematics

Emilee Moorehead, a Junior from Tullahoma is on the President’s list. Moorehead is studying Undeclared

Will Harder, a Senior from Tullahoma is on the Dean’s list. Harder is studying Physical Therapy Assistant