FHU Students Meet Commissioner of State Department of Financial Institutions

Commissioner Greg Gonzales of the Tennessee Department of Financial Institutions encouraged FHU students to use their unique Christian education to do something positive in their communities. "Tennessee needs you as leaders," said Gonzales, who quoted Theodore Roosevelt's "The Man in the Arena," during his chapel address Tuesday, March 8. "I urge you to enter the arena and give yourself to a great cause."

Gonzales began his day on FHU's campus as a guest lecturer in Instructor Michael Prentice's Financial Markets and Institutions class where he discussed the importance of community banks, the difference between state-monitored and federally monitored institutions, and the growth of digital assets and Cryptocurrency in the state. During his chapel lecture, Gonzales shared with the student body the scripture that inspired him to enter into public service. He spent his lunchtime with local leaders of financial institutions and finished the day meeting members of the Freed-Hardeman Investment Team, a $1 million student-managed investment fund. With mostly junior and senior business majors, the student-led, student-managed investment opportunity provides them with real-world experience. Since 2007, it has generated more than $154,000 for the FHU finance program. The finance program uses these funds to strengthen the program.

He watched as the students debated the pros and cons of an investment. "This is a standard day for us," Associate VP of Finance Jay Satterfield explained to Gonzales. "It's rapid fire. They know to come prepared for a discussion, be dressed for work, and ready to share their knowledge." Gonzales praised the students' efforts. "What an impressive group, you all are doing a magnificent job," he said.