Freed-Hardeman University Crowns 2026 Homecoming King and Queen

by Bethany Oldham

Henderson, TN (11/11/2026) — Freed-Hardeman University's Homecoming week had its crowning moment Saturday, Nov. 7, when Griffin Collins of Paintsville, Kentucky, and Emma Fry of Lebanon, Tennessee, were named the 2026 Homecoming king and queen.

Griffin is the son of Joe and Brandi Collins and is triple majoring in law and politics, personal financial planning and finance. During his time at FHU, he served as president of the Omega Chi social club and president of FHU College Republicans. He currently serves as president of the Student Financial Planning Association and is a member of the Alpha Chi National College Honor Society.

Griffin said he most appreciates the meaningful relationships he has been able to build while at Freed-Hardeman. "The people I have met at FHU have been one of the biggest blessings of my life," he said. "I have met my best friends in the world here, and I know they will continue to be lifelong friends."

Emma is the daughter of FHU alumni Chris and Vickie Fry, from the classes of '99 and '98, and is majoring in social work. As a student she has served her social club, Chi Beta Chi, in numerous roles such as ads manager, apparel representative, homecoming representative and Makin' Music director. She has worked as an Interface leader, is a member of the FHU Honors College and Social Work Students in Action, and has participated in mission trips to both Texas and Costa Rica.

"I am grateful for a place where I have grown in my faith while gaining a strong education, learning leadership skills, making memories and building relationships," Emma said. "The community and connections at Freed-Hardeman are truly one-of-a-kind, and I am forever thankful I chose to become a part of it four years ago."

Other senior candidates for homecoming royalty were Sager Blackman, a Bible and cybersecurity major from Lithia, Florida; Jackson Carter, a Bible and cybersecurity major from Georgetown, Kentucky; Raedia Duperron, a social work major from Cornwall, Ontario, Canada; and LizAnn Webb, a communication sciences and disorders major from Pace, Florida.

The mission of Freed-Hardeman University is to help students develop their God-given talents for His glory by empowering them with an education that integrates Christian faith, scholarship and service. Located in Henderson, Tennessee, FHU offers associate, bachelor's, master's, specialist and doctoral degrees. More information is available at fhu.edu.

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