Privacy Policy

Last Updated: October 2025

Hardin-Simmons University (“HSU,” “we,” “us,” or “our”) values the privacy of all visitors to our website, hsutx.edu. This Privacy Policy describes the types of information we collect, how we use and protect it, and the choices you have regarding your personal information.

1. Information We Collect

We collect information from you when you visit our website, complete online forms, or interact with our digital services. This may include:

  • Personal Information: such as your name, email address, phone number, and other details you provide voluntarily through forms (e.g., request-for-info, event registration, or application forms).
  • Usage Data: non-identifiable information automatically collected by analytics tools such as Google Analytics, including pages visited, browser type, device information, and referring URLs.
  • Cookies: small text files stored on your device that help us improve site functionality and analyze web traffic.

2. How We Use Information

HSU uses collected information to:

  • Respond to your inquiries or requests for information
  • Improve our website’s content, functionality, and user experience
  • Communicate with prospective and current students
  • Analyze traffic trends and marketing effectiveness
  • Maintain website security and compliance with institutional policies

3. Data Sharing and Third Parties

We do not sell or rent your personal information. We may share limited information with trusted service providers who help us operate our website or manage communication and analytics. These partners include, but are not limited to:

  • Google Analytics and Google Tag Manager (web traffic measurement)
  • WordPress, Elementor, and SearchWP (site functionality)
  • Third-party tools for forms, event registrations, or surveys

All third-party providers are required to process data in compliance with applicable privacy laws and university standards.

4. Cookies and Tracking

Our website uses cookies to enhance your browsing experience. You may disable cookies in your browser settings, but some features of the site may not function properly if cookies are disabled.

5. Student Privacy (FERPA)

HSU complies with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). Educational records and student data are protected under federal law and university policy. For more information, see our FERPA policy.

6. External Links

Our website may contain links to external websites not operated by Hardin-Simmons University. We are not responsible for the content or privacy practices of those sites. We encourage you to review their privacy policies before providing any personal information.

7. Data Security

We take appropriate technical and organizational measures to safeguard your personal information against unauthorized access, alteration, disclosure, or destruction. However, no data transmission over the internet is completely secure, and we cannot guarantee absolute security.

8. Your Rights and Choices

You have the right to request access to, correction of, or deletion of your personal information. To exercise these rights or to inquire about this Privacy Policy, please contact us at the email address below.

9. Contact Information

Hardin-Simmons University
2200 Hickory Street
Abilene, TX 79698
Email: webmaster@hsutx.edu
Phone: (325) 670-1000

10. Changes to This Policy

HSU may update this Privacy Policy periodically. Revisions will be posted on this page with a new “Last Updated” date. Your continued use of our website after any changes signifies your acceptance of the updated terms.

This Privacy Policy is intended as a temporary document pending reactivation of HSU’s hosted Iubenda policy. For any questions, please contact webmaster@hsutx.edu.