May 2026 Commencement Awards

At the spring commencement ceremonies, HSU awarded five graduates for their outstanding character and academic achievements.

Altom Christian Service Award – Jack Helsley ’26, Bachelor of History Education

The Altom Christian Service Award was established in honor of HSU alumni Bill and Janis Altom, recognizing more than four decades of joyful and selfless service to Hardin-Simmons University. Each year, this award is presented to a current or former student or employee whose life reflects outstanding Christian servanthood. This year’s recipient is one of our graduating seniors, Jack Helsley.

Jack exemplifies Christ-centered servant leadership through his deep involvement both on the Hardin-Simmons campus and in the Abilene community. A devoted student-athlete and history education major, he balanced competing on the HSU football team with leadership and service. He has been faithfully involved at The Well Church for four years and lead a Bible study with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, where he disciples peers and was named FCA Student-Athlete of the Year in April.

Hemphill Graduate Award – Sara Stille ’26, Master of Science in Speech Language Pathology

The Graduate School recognizes the graduate who has excelled in their academic studies, possesses a character and behavior consistent with the university’s purpose, and exhibits potential for significant contribution to his or her chosen field. The award was endowed by Dr. Lee Hemphill and Mrs. Lunelle Nix Hemphill. Dr. Hemphill served Hardin-Simmons for many years as the Vice President for Development.

This year’s Hemphill Award recipient is Sara Stille. Sara exemplifies academic excellence, maintaining a 4.0 GPA and ranking at the top of her courses throughout her graduate career. Demonstrating strong leadership in her time on the Forty Acres, Sara has been a gift to her peers and faculty and will represent Hardin-Simmons University well through the genuine and compassionate care of her future clients.

Julius Nelson Olsen Medal – Aaron Pardue ’26, Bachelor of Christian Studies and Business Administration

Dr. and Mrs. Julius Olsen established the Julius Nelson Olsen Medal in 1914 in memory of their son. It is perpetuated through a bequest by Dean Julius Olsen, who was Professor of Physics at Hardin-Simmons University from 1902-1942 and Dean of the University during much of that time. This medal is awarded annually at spring commencement to the graduate who has the highest grade average, has exemplified the highest scholarly achievement, and has completed at least 90 semester credits of residence credit at Hardin-Simmons University, including international study work taken through HSU.

This year’s recipient of the Julius Nelson Olsen Medal is Aaron Pardue — a model of Paul’s encouragement to Timothy to set an example in speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity. He is a campus and church leader who has served with distinction in university ministry, youth teaching, and preaching. An exceptional scholar, he maintained a 4.0 GPA, earned the president’s list each semester, and participated in the Julius Olsen Honors Program.

Two awards are made at spring commencement in the name of George Skiles Anderson and Minnie L. Anderson, longtime benefactors. The medals go to the senior man and senior woman who, having spent three or more years (90 semester credits including international study work taken through HSU) in residence at HSU, have excelled in character, personal development, and service to the University as recommended by a faculty/staff committee.

George Skiles Anderson Medal – Diego Espinoza ‘26, Bachelor of Exercise Science

This year’s recipient of the George Skiles Anderson Award is Diego Espinoza. He has performed at a high level, demonstrating intellectual inquiry and transfer of theoretical concepts into application. His commitment to academic achievement while being a student athlete on the HSU Men’s Soccer team demonstrates a great work ethic and ability to balance priorities. Diego is a hard-working individual who reaches his academic and career pursuits while also exhibiting the characteristics of leadership and service to others.

Minnie L. Anderson Medal – Keanne Alamo ’26, Bachelor of Exercise Science

This year’s recipient of the Minnie L. Anderson Medal is Keanna Alamo. She is an example to other students, not only in the classroom, but also on the athletic field as a teammate on the HSU women’s soccer team. She has impressed the faculty with her drive to learn and excel, her focused work ethic, and her humble attitude. She has been an active member of Chi Alpha Sigma Honor Society, HSU Fellowship of Christian Athletes, and the HSU Pre-Physical Therapy Club.