White FHU Logo
White FHU Logo

Henderson, Tennessee — (Dec. 8, 2023) — The winners of Freed-Hardeman University’s inaugural Next Level Bible Scholars Competition are Aubrey Franklin, of Meridianville, Alabama and Seth Johnson, of Sandpoint, Idaho, Dr. Justin Rogers, dean of the FHU College of Biblical Studies, announced. The two high school seniors were offered $10,000 scholarships.

Ten participants competed in four 50-minute events: public speaking, teamwork, Bible knowledge and problem solving. Students were asked to give a four-minute impromptu speech with only four minutes of preparation, construct a bridge using popsicle sticks and a hot glue gun, answer biblical questions and respond, as a part of a team of “elders,” to a difficult ministry situation and then defend their solutions.

“The Bible faculty chose the winners based on their performance in the competition, ACT score and perceived ministry promise,” Rogers said. “All participants received generous scholarship offers, and it is our hope that all will attend FHU.”

Other special guests on campus for the competition included Clayton Danley, of Dunlap, Tennessee; Ramee Deal, of Gurley, Alabama; Jace Hanley, of Henderson, Kentucky; Deacon Hazel, of Valdosta, Georgia; Aaron Lovett, of Benton, Kentucky; Kobi Lovett, of Benton, Kentucky; Austin Smith, of Shelbyville, Tennessee; and Gabriel Yaeger, of Birmingham, Alabama.

FHU’s College of Biblical Studies offers a total of eight degrees: two undergraduate degrees (B.A. in biblical studies and B.S. in biblical studies), six master’s degrees (M.A. in ministry, M.A. in New Testament, M.A. in Old Testament, M.A. in pastoral care and counseling, Master of Divinity [M.Div.]) and a Doctor of Ministry (D.Min.). Approximately 119 undergraduate students are currently majoring in Bible at the university, with 48 additional minors and 77 graduate students.

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 and Memphis, FHU offers associates, bachelor’s, master’s, specialist and doctoral degrees. More information is available at fhu.edu.