Hardin-Simmons University: The Pursuit of Knowledge in Central Texas

The Sweetwater Baptist Association, a group of local citizens from Abeline, Texas, founded Hardin-Simmons University in 1891.  Comprised of local ministers, ranchers and merchants, the residents of Abeline were determined to establish a solid, Christian-based institute of higher learning for their community.  Originally named the Abeline Baptist College, the school was built on a large tract of land donated by local businessman C. W. Merchant. Although the university has been affiliated with the Baptist General Convention of Texas since 1941, its student body is made up of students from a wide range of Christian denominations.

In 1892, following a large financial contribution from New York City minister James B. Simmons, the school was renamed Simmons College.  More than thirty years later, in 1925, the school gained its status as a university.  Its final name change to Hardin-Simmons University came in 1934 after a generous donation from Mary and John G. Hardin of Burkburnett, Texas. 

Hardin-Simmons University’s mission is “to be a community dedicated to providing excellence in education enlightened by Christian faith and values.”  In order to pursue that mission earnestly, the Logsdon Seminary was established in 1983 in close conjunction with the university. Mr. Logsdon, a 1928 graduate, served the school as a trustee until his death in 1981.  Named in honor of Mr. Logsdon and his wife, Koreen, the seminary was created to further the principles of the university’s original founders in providing a faith-based education that strengthens the community’s spiritual values.  The Logsdon School of Theology was opened in 1989, followed by the creation of a Master’s of Divinity Program in 1995. 

In the 21st century, Hardin-Simmons won numerous awards for its academic achievements.  In 2004, the institution gained national acclaim for its Model United Nations Program.  Furthermore, in both 2006 and 2007, Hardin-Simmons was recognized by U.S. News and World Report as one of America’s Best Colleges. During the same time period, the Princeton Review also included the university in its list of America’s Best Western Colleges.

At present, the university offers more than 70 majors in its undergraduate curriculum, as well as seven types of graduate degrees inside 18 different programs.  The university encourages service in the community, spiritual growth and the pursuit of knowledge, making it one of the top choices in the Southwest for young learners to work towards earning a degree of academic distinction.