The community offered a warm “Welcome Home” to new Freed-Hardeman University students over the weekend in Henderson. Temps nearing 100 degrees did not deter the well-organized crew who greeted incoming freshmen and transfer students as they arrived on campus, directing them through stations where they received information, welcome gifts and got a selfie with the president himself – FHU President David Shannon. Also on hand to roll out the local red carpet were Henderson Mayor Terry Bell and Chester County Mayor Barry Hutcherson.
“Crista and I enjoyed spending the day with President Shannon and The FHU Family welcoming the incoming freshman class,” Mayor Bell said. “My friend Mayor Barry Hutcherson joined in the fun. We are excited about another great year at Freed-Hardeman University… Hoping for another NAIA Championship,” he added.
Mayor Hutcherson said, “Welcome to Freed-Hardeman University, Henderson and Chester County!”
“To all our new students joining us from every corner of the country—whether you’re arriving from big cities, quiet towns, or somewhere in between—welcome home. At FHU, you’re not just stepping onto a campus; you’re entering a Christ-centered community that values your story, your growth, and your future. No matter which states you call home, you are now a vital part of something bigger—a place where faith, learning, and lasting friendships come together. We’re excited to walk alongside you as you discover your purpose, deepen your faith, and make memories that will last a lifetime. This is the start of something truly special, and we’re honored to be a part of your journey. Thank you for selecting FHU, Henderson and Chester County.”
When students arrived at their assigned dormitories, other crews ascended on the vehicles, unloading and delivering luggage and belongings to the rooms for the students and their families to unpack and complete the final steps of moving in. President Shannon remarked on how amazing it was to know that there were enough people waiting at the dorms to unload every single car.
Maria Yaeger and Sylvie Robinett of Birmingham, Alabama, set up their new room in Scott Hall Saturday, assisted by a number of family members. Neither young lady is the first in their family to attend the university. Robinett, a pre-law student, follows in the steps of great-grandparents and her older sister, Lily, who also attended Freed-Hardeman. Maria continues a family legacy of both students and faculty at the university, from great-grandparents and grandfather to both parents and her older brother, who all have been a part of the FHU family. “It’s exciting,” said Yaeger. She plans to major in chemistry and history, with plans to teach, continuing the family tradition.
While the roommates’ family legacy bears some similarities, their packing and preparation process certainly does not. Yeager said her process was methodical and organized, that she has been planning for months and has had many things packed for the past month, leaving only a few things until the last days before the move.
As for Robinett, “I packed frantically yesterday – no, the day before,” she laughed. “It was very stressful. I definitely was not the most organized when packing, but we got it all here.”
Despite their differences in style, the move-in was a relatively smooth process, thanks to many hands.
Anne Robinett attributed the relaxed and upbeat atmosphere in the dorms and around campus to “Welcome Home” organizers. A staggered start, directed flow of traffic and smiling faces helped to start the day on a good note, she said. “It was very fun seeing the mayors and President Shannon.” The process continued when they arrived at the dorm, she continued. “Both cars were unloaded in almost no time, so we were able to spend our time getting organized. It makes you feel as though people do care, they do want you here.”
