HSU trustees grant president three-year extension
ABILENE—The Hardin-Simmons University board of trustees has offered to extend by three years the contract of President Eric Bruntmyer, who in recent weeks received votes of no-confidence from the school’s faculty.
“The board has full confidence in President Bruntmyer and believes HSU’s future is bright under his leadership,” said Rick Strange, chairman of the HSU board. According to the Nov. 11 announcement, trustees will extend Bruntmyer’s contract an additional three years beginning Jan. 1, 2023.
In contrast, the HSU faculty council less than three weeks ago cited “serious concerns over the health and future of the university under the current administration and requested the HSU board of trustees begin the replacement process for the university’s top leader.”
‘Navigated significant challenges’
In announcing Bruntmyer’s three-year contract extension, Strange noted the university has “navigated significant challenges during this time, including multiple program closures that were difficult on those affected, as well as the COVID-19 pandemic.”
“Over the last few years, the board has assigned President Bruntmyer with several difficult tasks, often resulting in him taking criticism that would be better directed at us. On those occasions, I have personally witnessed his willingness to accept responsibility based on his selfless dedication to the university,” Strange stated.
Four years ago, the HSU board voted to close Logsdon Seminary extension campuses in Coppell, Lubbock, Corpus Christi and McAllen, as well as discontinue nine undergraduate program majors and four graduate programs.
Then on Feb. 7, 2020, trustees voted to close Logsdon Seminary and its programs. Ten days later, Bruntmyer told the Baptist General Convention of Texas Executive Board the university made the decision to shut down the seminary and direct endowment earnings to undergraduate programs in the Logsdon School of Theology because the university could not afford to “keep two financially weak programs going.”
Strange stated HSU has “experienced many positive improvements” during Bruntmyer’s time as president the past six and a half years.
Among other achievements, he pointed to “overall increased financial stability” as indicated by “improved banking relationships” and growth in the university’s endowment and quasi-endowment; “new and renewed program accreditations” and new degree offerings in mechanical engineering, digital media and other areas; physical improvements such as the restoration and repurposing of Abilene Hall, refurbishing residence halls, improving student dining facilities and remodeling the physicians assistants program building; and “refining of processes that evaluate program performance and assure student success.”
Controversial actions
He also cited as “positive improvements” two items that have generated considerable controversy—a “recently adopted statement of faith to guide and direct every aspect of the university” and “an independent, on-campus nursing program starting in 2025.”
At its May 18 meeting, the HSU board of trustees adopted a statement of faith that affirms historic orthodox Christian doctrines about the Triune God, Jesus Christ, the Bible, humanity, salvation and the church. It also specifically rejects transgenderism and same-sex marriage.
The board approved a slightly revised version of the faith statement on Nov. 3. It still says, “We believe that God created the human race with two genetic sexes, male and female.” It also states: “We believe that marriage has been established by God to be a life-long, covenant relationship between one genetic male and one genetic female. We also believe that sexual activity is intended by God to be expressed solely in the context of a loving marriage between one genetic male and one genetic female.”
Regarding the nursing program, the HSU board previously expressed its desire either for Hardin-Simmons to acquire full ownership of the Patty Hanks School of Nursing or start its own program.
More than four decades ago, HSU, McMurry University and Abilene Christian University created the Abilene Intercollegiate School of Nursing as a nonprofit corporation. Nearly 20 years ago, the nursing school became an unincorporated association, and the three universities entered into a consortium agreement. ACU withdrew from the consortium in 2012.
This summer, McMurry University filed a more than $1 million lawsuit against HSU in Taylor County’s District Court, claiming a breach of contract regarding the Patty Hanks Shelton School of Nursing.
‘A foundation for success’
Strange concluded the Nov. 11 announcement regarding Bruntmyer’s contract extension with additional words of appreciation.
“We know President Bruntmyer does not serve alone. We acknowledge the contributions of our dedicated administration, faculty and staff who faithfully serve every day to educate and disciple our students. We also appreciate the president’s wife Elise and their children for their sacrificial support of him as HSU president,” Strange stated.
“And of great importance, we thank the countless supporters and alumni who contribute sacrificially to the university in order to advance our overarching goal of providing an education enlightened by Christian faith and values, equipping future generations of Christian leaders for service.
“Thanks to President Bruntmyer and all who collectively support HSU, we have positioned the university on a foundation for success. A building’s foundation is the least visible part of its construction and often doesn’t fully foreshadow the structure to come, but it remains the most important component because nothing else can exceed the foundation. Built on a strong foundation, the board looks forward to continue working with President Bruntmyer as together we move HSU into the future God has planned for us.”
The Baptist Standard attempted to contact HSU Faculty President Jennifer Eames for a response. If additional information is received, this article will be updated.