Hardin-Simmons University logo

Hardin-Simmons University

Abilene, TX

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

"...Excellence in education enlightened by Christian faith and values."

1891
Founded
Private university
Type
1,275
Total Students
1,347
Undergrad
418
Graduate
$166M
Endowment
(2020)
$32K
Tuition (In-State)
$32K
Tuition (Out-State)
$21K
Avg Net Price
97%
Acceptance Rate
50%
Graduation Rate
6-year
65%
Retention Rate
Doctoral/Professional Universities
Classification
President: Eric Bruntmyer

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Hardin-Simmons University

Hardin-Simmons: Excellence in faith-based education, building futures since 1891.

Hardin-Simmons University, established in 1891, stands as a beacon of Christian higher education in the Southwest. Founded by dedicated cattlemen and pastors with a mission to "lead students to Christ, teach them of Christ, and train them for Christ," HSU continues to uphold its commitment to academic excellence enlightened by Christian faith and values. As a private university, it fosters a close-knit community, with 1765 students pursuing their educational journeys under the leadership of President Eric Bruntmyer.

The university's rich history began as Abilene Baptist College, quickly adopting the name Simmons College in 1892 to honor early benefactor James B. Simmons. After evolving into Simmons University, it became Hardin-Simmons University in 1934, recognizing the significant contributions of Mary and John G. Hardin. Since 1941, HSU has maintained a strong affiliation with the Baptist General Convention of Texas, grounding its curriculum and community in a shared spiritual foundation.

While the university has navigated financial challenges in recent years, leading to program consolidations and the closure of Logsdon Seminary, its core mission to provide a transformative educational experience remains steadfast. With an endowment of $0.2 billion, Hardin-Simmons University remains dedicated to nurturing students' intellectual, spiritual, and professional growth, preparing them to make a meaningful impact on the world, guided by their faith and values.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1891 as Abilene Baptist College, boasting over a century of educational heritage.
  • Operates under the inspiring motto: "...Excellence in education enlightened by Christian faith and values."
  • A private university committed to a distinctively Christian higher education experience.
  • Supports a vibrant community of 1765 students.
  • Maintains an endowment of $0.2 billion, reinforcing its commitment to student resources and academic programs.
  • Affiliated with the Baptist General Convention of Texas since 1941, upholding a strong faith tradition.

Timeline

1891
Founded as Abilene Baptist College by the Sweetwater Baptist Association.
1892
Renamed Simmons College in honor of early contributor James B. Simmons.
1925
Became Simmons University.
1934
Renamed Hardin–Simmons University, honoring major contributors Mary and John G. Hardin.
1941
Began association with the Baptist General Convention of Texas.
2016
Eric Bruntmyer began his tenure as President.
2018
Ended nine undergraduate and four graduate programs, and closed five campus extensions.
2020
Closed Logsdon Seminary and an additional 22 academic programs.
🏛️
135 Years
of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

1 notable schools within Hardin-Simmons University

🏫

Logsdon Seminary

A professional school that was closed in 2020 as part of university program consolidations.

Leadership

Eric Bruntmyer
President

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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