Fall 2026 Range Rider Magazine Now Available: Building What Matters, Growing What Lasts

For the past decade, Hardin-Simmons University has been intentionally investing in what matters most: developing students of faith and character, strengthening academic excellence, enhancing campus life, and preparing graduates to make an impact in their communities and around the world.

The Fall 2026 issue of Range Rider magazine celebrates that journey through the theme “Building What Matters, Growing What Lasts.” Copies are now available for alumni, friends, students, and supporters across campus and beyond.

Throughout its pages, readers will discover stories of transformation, service, leadership, and faith that reflect the enduring mission of HSU. The issue highlights many of the university’s accomplishments over the last 10 years, a period marked by significant growth and progress under the leadership of President Eric Bruntmyer.

From major campus renovations and facility improvements to the expansion of academic opportunities, the university has continued building an environment where students can thrive. Readers will see how investments in athletics, dining services, student wellness, and a new fitness center have enhanced the student experience, while strengthened relationships with alumni, churches, and community partners have extended HSU’s impact far beyond campus.

The theme comes to life through the people featured in this issue.

One story honors Dr. Jim McGraw, whose 44 years of teaching have left an immeasurable mark on generations of students. Though retiring from the classroom, McGraw’s presence remains a beloved part of HSU as he continues announcing athletic events and encouraging the Cowboy and Cowgirl family he has helped shape for decades.

Readers will also meet Shelbi (Stevens) Smith ’17/’23, HSU’s head athletic trainer. Her story highlights the often unseen work of athletic trainers and the compassion, expertise, and dedication required to care for student-athletes behind the scenes. Smith exemplifies the servant leadership that makes a lasting difference in the lives of students.

Innovation and service intersect in the story of HSU’s first engineering graduates, whose capstone project produced a custom-designed patient lift for the university’s hippotherapy program. Their achievement demonstrates how education rooted in faith can equip students to solve real-world challenges and serve others with excellence.

The magazine also follows the journey of Dr. Kyle Goppfarth ’16, who now owns the orthodontic practice he visited as a child. His story reflects how lessons learned at HSU—from perseverance and leadership to building meaningful relationships—continue to shape graduates long after commencement.

In addition to these feature stories, readers will find updates on giving initiatives, progress toward the university’s strategic plan, the latest developments in chapel programming, alumni class notes, and much more.

More than a look back at the past decade, this issue of Range Rider serves as a reminder of what makes Hardin-Simmons distinctive. Buildings and programs matter because they support a greater purpose: forming men and women of faith, character, grit, and servant leadership. The stories throughout these pages demonstrate how the seeds planted at HSU continue to grow into lifelong callings, thriving communities, and Kingdom impact that extends far beyond a university campus.

As you explore this issue, you’ll see countless examples of HSU building what matters and growing what lasts.

Pick up your copy of the Fall 2026 Range Rider magazine today or watch your mailbox for delivery, and join us in celebrating the people, places, and mission that continue to shape the future of Hardin-Simmons University.