Awards and Honors
Graduation with Honors (for Baccalaureate degrees)
A student who has completed 60 credits of HSU residence credit and has earned a cumulative grade point average of 3.55 is graduated cum laude.
A student who has completed 60 credits of HSU residence credit and has earned a cumulative grade point average of 3.75 is graduated magna cum laude.
A student who has completed 60 credits of HSU residence credit and has earned a cumulative grade point average of 3.90 is graduated summa cum laude.
NOTE: Current GPA is the basis for honors read at Commencement. Honors for transcript and diploma are based on actual GPA after requirements are completed.
Commencement Awards
The Anderson Medals - 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.
The Julius Nelson Olsen Medal
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.
The Winnie K. and D. M. Wiggins Medal
Awarded to the senior student graduating during the winter commencement for academic excellence throughout his/her entire college career. The medal will go to one who has spent three or more years in residence (including international study work taken through HSU) and who has excelled in character, personal development, and academic achievement.
The Academic Foundation Medal
Established in 1999 by The Academic Foundation of Hardin-Simmons University, the medal is awarded annually during the winter commencement to the graduate who has the highest grade average, exemplifies 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.
Other Awards
Hardin-Simmons University presents numerous other medals and awards to deserving students who demonstrate excellence in academics, athletics, and service to others. These awards are sponsored by various campus departments and organizations as well as memorial foundations and endowments.