FHU Reports Record Graduation Rate Amid Strong Fall Enrollment

HENDERSON, Tenn., Sept. 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Freed-Hardeman University welcomed 2,296 students to classes this fall, continuing a period of strong enrollment while seeing high student retention and an all-time-high five-year graduation rate of 71%, exceeding the rate at nine of Tennessee's public four-year universities. FHU's 89% retention rate and graduation rate point to a student experience that continues to help students find their place, remain engaged and reach graduation.

"While numbers tell part of the story, what encourages me most is seeing students find a place where they are valued and challenged to grow," FHU President Keith Harris said. "Our strong retention and graduation rates, along with the continued growth in new and international students, show a community that is investing deeply in the lives of its students. We are grateful for every student who has chosen FHU and for the faculty and staff who walk alongside them."

Overall, the number of new students increased by 5% from the previous year. The university also welcomed an all-time high number of international students this fall, expanding FHU's global reach and bringing students from an increasing number of backgrounds and cultures into the campus community.

At the same time, FHU continues to see strong engagement in its residential campus experience. Full-time undergraduate enrollment increased 3% this fall, while the number of students living on campus grew 5%, adding to the community and personal relationships that are central to the FHU experience.

FHU's distinctive Christian mission also continues to shape the campus community. Approximately 76% of on-campus, undergraduate students are members of the churches of Christ, representing the highest percentage among Christian colleges and universities, according to Senior Vice President Dave Clouse. The strong alignment between FHU's student body and its mission creates an environment where students can grow academically, spiritually and personally alongside others who share their faith.

Graduate education also continues to grow, with full-time graduate enrollment increasing by 13% this fall.

"Students are looking for a college where they feel like they belong, and we continue to see that in the students choosing Freed-Hardeman," Ryan Malecha, vice president for enrollment management, said. "We are encouraged by the increase in new students and the growth in full-time graduate enrollment. We are also seeing more students choose to live on campus, which strengthens the relationships and sense of community that make the FHU experience distinctive. These are encouraging signs as we look ahead."

FHU's fall enrollment includes 1,806 undergraduate students, with 490 additional students enrolled in the university's graduate programs. As the university begins another academic year, the enrollment figures illustrate a community marked by strong student persistence, an increasing global presence and a continued commitment to its mission of Christian higher education.

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. Located in Henderson, Tennessee, FHU offers associate, bachelor's, master's, specialist and doctoral degrees. More information is available at fhu.edu.

SOURCE Freed-Hardeman University