The Irvin School of Education is named for William Buel Irvin and Ollie Camp Irvin in recognition of their lifetime dedication to education, active involvement in the history of Hardin-Simmons, significant financial contributions to the University, and committed Christian lives which will continue to bring honor and respect to Hardin-Simmons University.

HSU maintains a liberal arts emphasis, stressing sound academic foundations. The University believes that the best form of such education is that which can be pursued under the guidance of Christian teachers in an environment that emphasizes moral and spiritual values.