Freed-Hardeman University marked a milestone with its 10th annual University Scholars’ Day, bringing together students, faculty and guests to learn about academic research, creativity and collaboration.
Held in Dryden Auditorium, the campus-wide event featured approximately 41 student presentations, along with musical performances and research displays that highlighted the depth and diversity of student scholarship.
The day opened with a keynote from Dr. Nathan Howard, who emphasized the connection between intellectual pursuit and moral character. Drawing from both classical philosophy and biblical teaching, Howard encouraged students to view the mind as an essential part of the “holistic self,” shaping not only what they know but who they become.
“As a rudder guides the total ship, our intellect guides our heart, soul and body to the perfect virtue reflected in Christ,” Howard said, urging students to devote their academic and creative pursuits to loving God and serving others.
Across sessions, students explored how academic work shapes both knowledge and perspective. One research project examined how communication patterns and relationship confidence influence conflict resolution in the early years of marriage, highlighting the long-term effects of unresolved conflict.
For junior Macy Gardner, a co-investigator on the study, the findings offered a new lens on relationships. “I’d never thought about relationship confidence,” Gardner said. “To realize how big of a deal it has on conflict was really eye-opening.”
In the arts, students reflected on the emotional meaning found in everyday objects through classic works such as John Frederick Peto’s painting “Old Companions.” “I see the wear and tear on these objects as a symbol of love,” art student Amelia Vestal said. “The things we use the most are the things that have really been with us through the good days and the bad.”
In another session, business student Ethan Thomas demonstrated how artificial intelligence can streamline investment research. “Artificial intelligence can skyrocket our productivity and allow us to have more time for creative solutions that really set us apart,” he said.
Together, the presentations highlighted how students are not only gaining knowledge in their fields, but also learning to apply it in ways that are thoughtful, innovative and grounded in purpose.
