Elizabeth Gentle, a celebrated journalist and communication specialist with more than 20 years of experience in the news industry, will be the featured alumni speaker for this year’s Freed-Hardeman University ALUMination Days. Gentle will speak to students Thursday, Nov. 9, at 10:30 a.m. in Loyd Auditorium.
“I love Freed-Hardeman University, and I am excited to return to campus,” Gentle said. “Freed-Hardeman holds a special place in my heart, and I am honored to share with students how FHU taught me how to live and how to make a living. I look forward to returning to my college home, seeing old friends and meeting a new generation of FHU students.”
Part of FHU homecoming festivities, the ALUMination program highlights diverse real-world accomplishments that Freed-Hardeman graduates have achieved since earning their degrees. In addition to alumni serving as chapel speakers throughout homecoming week, several graduates will return to share their expertise and experience with various academic classes.
Gentle, class of 1996, started her career as an assignment manager and later became a producer, news reporter, news anchor and weekend news manager. She has covered high-profile news stories and provided live coverage on CNN, Fox News, The Weather Channel and The Today Show. She even gained unexpected national exposure in 2010 for a story she covered in Huntsville, Alabama, that went viral.
A multiple award-winning journalist recognized with several Associated Press Awards for her outstanding work in the field, Gentle was also nominated for an Emmy. She left news in 2021 to work as the director of communications for Decatur City Schools in Alabama, where she is a member of the crisis communication team.
Gentle holds a Bachelor of Science in broadcast journalism and marketing from Freed-Hardeman University, and she will graduate in December with a master’s in communication studies from Arkansas State University. She’s also a member of several professional organizations as well as a member of the FHU President’s Council.
In addition, Gentle sits on the board of directors for Susie’s Wish, a nonprofit organization that sends patients with life-threatening illnesses to the beach with their families.
ALUMination Days are a part of FHU’s homecoming week, Nov. 4-12. A complete listing of homecoming events may be found at fhu.edu/homecoming/schedule.
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 and doctoral degrees. More information is available at fhu.edu
