Freed-Hardeman University's 57th Annual Benefit Dinner Raises More than $1.3 Million

Freed-Hardeman University's 57th Annual Benefit Dinner raised more than $1.3 million this year. The evening's total marks the 21st consecutive year that the dinner has grossed more than a million dollars.

The event featured comedian and best-selling author Jeff Foxworthy, whose books have sold more than a million copies. Foxworthy shared with the audience that he hoped that laughter would release some of the pressure and stress everyone has felt during the nearly two-year Covid-19 pandemic.

Foxworthy's jokes about helping his mother learn to text on an iPhone after getting rid of her flip phone and his wife's packing routine for family trips filled the auditorium with laughter. During a sit-down conversation with FHU President David Shannon, Foxworthy shared how discovering his gift helped shape his life.

FHU's annual benefit dinner is typically the state's largest single-night fundraiser. Since its inception, the benefit dinner has provided students with scholarships to help bridge the gap between tuition costs and financial aid.

Forever Communications was the premier media sponsor. For the second year in a row, benefit dinner guests enjoyed Christmas in the Commons which featured horse-drawn carriage rides, carolers and a hot drink station. The Merry Market, also a part of the event, offered 11 vendors for Christmas shopping.

The mission of Freed-Hardeman University is to help students develop their God-given talents for His glory by empowering them with an education that integrates Christian faith, scholarship and service. With locations in Henderson, Memphis and Dickson, FHU offers bachelor's, master's, specialist and doctoral degrees. More information is available at fhu.edu.