Freed-Hardeman University: A Legacy of Notable Alumni
Freed-Hardeman University (FHU), a private institution rooted in the Churches of Christ tradition, has fostered a rich legacy of alumni who have made significant contributions across various fields. Located in Henderson, Tennessee, FHU emphasizes undergraduate studies and a close-knit residential environment. Governed by a board of trustees who are members of Churches of Christ, the university's history dates back to the Henderson Male Institute's charter in 1869. After several transformations, N. B. Hardeman and A. G. Freed established the National Teachers' Normal and Business College in 1907, which later became Freed-Hardeman College in 1919.
While primarily an undergraduate institution, FHU extends its reach through courses in Memphis, Tennessee, and European study abroad programs in Verviers, Belgium. The university offers a variety of programs and activities, including social clubs instead of traditional fraternities and sororities, and sports teams known as the "Lions" and "Lady Lions" competing in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA).
This article explores the lives and achievements of some of Freed-Hardeman University's notable alumni, showcasing the diverse paths they have taken and the impact they have made on their communities and beyond.
Accomplished Alumni in Various Fields
FHU boasts a diverse array of alumni who have excelled in various fields, including ministry, education, arts, and public service. Their stories exemplify the values of hard work, dedication, and service instilled by the university.
Ministry and Religious Leadership
- Nicholas Brodie Hardeman: An alumnus of Georgie Robertson Christian College, Hardeman co-founded the National Teachers' Normal and Business College, which later became Freed-Hardeman University. He was an influential educator, debater, and gospel preacher within the Churches of Christ.
Arts and Entertainment
- Jason Liles: Although he attended FHU for only a year, Liles credits that time as the inspiration for his professional career. His experience in FHU productions of Macbeth and Terra Nova spurred him toward a career in "creature acting." He has appeared in films such as "Men in Black III" and commercials like "Halo Wars 2," often unrecognizable beneath extensive prosthetics.
- Alaina (Smith) Shefelton: A 2015 graduate with a B.A. in theatre performance, Shefelton has built a career in professional theatre. Her experience includes working as a scenic charge artist for Stages St. Louis, an internship at Sacramento Theatre Company, and performances and painting roles in Nashville, TN. She holds an MLitt and MFA in Shakespeare and Performance from Mary Baldwin University. During her time at FHU, Alaina showcased her talents in numerous plays and musicals, including "Life on the Mississippi," "The Doll House," and "The Secret Garden."
- Becky Thompson Hartle: A 2013 graduate, Hartle is an elementary fine arts teacher in the Chester County School System. She also directs productions for local middle school and junior high school students. In 2023, Becky received the Modern Woodmen of America’s “Hometown Hero” award and in 2018, she received the “K-5 Teacher of the Year Award” in the Chester County School system. In 2016, Becky launched the Chester County Youth Theater, which serves hundreds of children each year.
- Tiffany Christensen Jones: A 2007 graduate with BA degrees in theatre performance and music. Her passion for ministry led her to Redding, CA shortly after graduation where she interned with the Arts Director at Bethel School of Ministry and subsequently produced and directed the school’s first full-length production in 2010. For several years, Tiffany worked in faith-based theatre education. More recently, Tiffany worked with the team creating the 2019 film “Unplanned.”
- Will Slayden: A 2001 graduate, has worked in a variety of venues. He started his professional career here at Freed-Hardeman as a Technical Director and Scenic Designer. Since then his designs have been seen at Wayside theatre in Winchester Virginia, Concordia College in Moorhead, Minnesota, and at Century College in White Bear Lake Minnesota.
- Starla Steward: A 2005 graduate. Starla performed regularly for adult audiences and for children with the Freed-Hardeman Pied Pipers. After graduation, Starla worked as a nanny in New York City, then with the Jackson Sun as a graphic artist before opening Starla Stewart Photography.
- Kell Christie: A 1992 graduate, served as Theatre Memphis’ Artistic Director, having previously served that organization as Director of Education and Outreach. An adjunct faculty member at the University of Memphis, Kell holds an M.F.A. in directing and an M.Ed in curriculum and instruction after receiving a BA in English from FHU.
Public Service
- Dianne Odell: A Tennessee woman who spent most of her life in an iron lung.
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