Hardin-Simmons University

Hardin-Simmons University (or HSU) is a private Baptist university located in Abilene, Texas. Hardin-Simmons University was founded as Abilene Baptist College in 1891 by the Sweetwater Baptist Association and a group of cattlemen and pastors who sought to bring Christian higher education to the Southwest. The original land was donated to the university by rancher C.W. Merchant. The college was renamed Simmons College in 1892 in honor of an early ... more

Hardin-Simmons University (or HSU) is a private Baptist university located in Abilene, Texas. Hardin-Simmons University was founded as Abilene Baptist College in 1891 by the Sweetwater Baptist Association and a group of cattlemen and pastors who sought to bring Christian higher education to the Southwest. The original land was donated to the university by rancher C.W. Merchant. The college was renamed Simmons College in 1892 in honor of an early contributor, James B. Simmons (clergyman). In 1925, it became Simmons University. It was once again renamed to Hardin-Simmons University in 1934 in honor of Mary and John G. Hardin who were also major contributors. The University has been associated with the Baptist General Convention of Texas since 1941. Its students come from diverse backgrounds and a variety of Christian denominations. With an approximate enrollment of 2,400 students, the student-to-teacher ratio is 13:1. A fully accredited university, Hardin-Simmons offers six... less