In honor of this week’s inauguration, let’s have a presidential-themed post.
In Hardin-Simmons’ almost-130-year history, 17 men have served as president of the school.
The responsibilities of university president are endless; and while the job description for university president evolves with the times, it boils down, simply, to: how to make the school successful, maintain that success, and grow that success.
Every school defines “success” differently, and that is why no university president is the same.
The first president of Simmons College was Rev. William C. Friley. Along with his presidential responsibilities, Friley taught mental and moral science. His tenure lasted only two years.
Prior to the Great Depression, HSU’s charter prevented the school from taking on any debts. Simmons College/Simmons University/Hardin-Simmons University could not take out loans or apply for credit. Since the school was not allowed to do this, the financial burden fell to the president (and board members).
If payroll was short one month, it was up to the president to personally take out a loan to pay salaries.
If a bill could not be paid, it was up to the president to find the difference, either through a donor or taking out a personal loan.
The president only received a salary after all bills and payroll were satisfied. With what money was leftover, he divided with the vice president (when there was a VP).
Many of the early presidents of the school resigned their positions financially burdened. They believed in the mission of Simmons College, but were unable to remain employed by the school because they were, essentially, bankrupt and, in some cases, unable to support their families.
A schism between President Owen C. Pope (president of Simmons College 1898-1901) and faculty members was born because of finances. Faculty of the time believed Pope was not prioritizing a much-needed dormitory. The faculty went to the Board and demanded Pope’s dismissal. Knowing the school could not take on a loan for the project; knowing there was not enough capital for such a project; and knowing the work ethic and track record of Pope, the Board dismissed the faculty and kept Pope.
During the presidency of Jefferson Davis Sandefer (president 1909-1940), a donor named H.C. Coleman, from Philadelphia, sent many checks in support of the school. Coleman was the ideal donor. His letters to Sandefer instructed Sandefer to put the money where the school needed it most, AND Coleman often sent checks with the memo: to Sandefer’s salary. Coleman knew Sandefer was not compensated for his time and efforts. Coleman believed in Sandefer and the college so much he made sure the right person could continue to run it.
When a new administration begins, the campus partakes in the pomp and circumstance traditional of academia. The new president is sworn in, guests are invited, speeches are given, and the community welcomes the new president, while bidding adieu to the former.
Below are samplings from various inaugurations:
It is customary for the incoming president to give a speech during the ceremony.
In April 1978, Dr. Jesse Fletcher’s inauguration took place in Behrens Chapel. His inauguration speech focused on six questions that ranged from the financial security and prosperity of private, [Christian] universities, to the ability to recruit students and compete against public schools, to the diminishing relationship churches have in supporting their college-counterparts.
The questions Dr. Fletcher posed in his inauguration speech reflect conversations and challenges we, in higher-ed, still face today.
There are endless stories about each of the presidents who served HSU, and I hope you take the time to read about each of them.
Our campus has lived through wars, depressions, booms, recessions, expansions, and pandemics. And while each president has experienced different student populations, world-events, and trends, each administration was (and currently is) joined by a strong devotion, their faith, and a belief in the importance of Christian Education.
I will leave you with words from Dr. Elwin Skiles, president of HSU 1966-1977.
P.S. Here are images of the Cowboy Band from different U.S. Presidential inaugurations.
the vault 
Eric as always I enjoy and appreciate your weekly update. It is so important for all of us to learn about the HSU history and the challenges of the past. The stored history of our wonderful university is a testament to what can happen if we have the resolve and the desire to be good stewards of what GOD blesses us with and the willingness to learn about past leaders trials and tribulations during during their respective times. Thanks for your wonderful leadership. We are so blessed to have you and your family here. Guinn Smith
Thanks for reading, Guinn!