Harding University has always been focused on more than just academic achievement. In 1975, the University’s purpose was, “to acquaint students with the cultural heritage of man so that they will have the historical and philosophical perspective from which to make their maximum contribution to society.” Today, Harding retains the same sentiment with its current mission focusing on “global impact” and “deeply connected community.”
Another important facet of Harding is its emphasis on faculty relationships with its students; even 50 years ago the school emphasized that “although research activity is encouraged, good teaching receives first priority at Harding College.” This is evident not only in statements made by University administration but by its composition as well. Harding has always boasted a small student-to-teacher ratio; 20:1 in 1975 and 16:1 today.
While much of Harding’s purpose has remained the same, its student body has changed drastically. Currently consisting of 4,608 students, the University has doubled in size during the last 50 years. As of fall 1974, the student body was composed of 47 states and 18 foreign countries, whereas today it consists of students from 48 states and 50 nations and territories. Despite all this change, one thing remains consistent—only about a quarter of all students are from the state of Arkansas.
Some aspects of student life demonstrate a change in the last half a century. Whereas students today must put up with the website crashing when they try to register for classes online, students back then had to wait in line at the registrar’s office to sign up for classes in person. Many buildings on campus did not exist for the 1974-75 school year, including many of the residence halls, as despite having half as many students as Harding does now, the PetitJean yearbook stated “in some dormitories, students are living three to a room that were designed to accommodate two students.”
The admissions process of the ‘70s would make many students today envious, as it was “based on successfully completing 15 units of high school academic subjects with an average grade of ‘C’” and “a composite score of 17 on the ACT is recommended.” As for the “Harding experience,” it’s hard to imagine there could be a “Harding experience” without study abroad programs, as currently “30% of each graduating class has spent a semester abroad.” The University’s first abroad program, however, did not begin until 1980. As much as things have changed, some remain the same. Intramural sports are abundant, social clubs comprise much of the school’s activities, and students even 50 years ago were discussing “controversial issues such as the dress code, chapel services, dorm hours and parking.” Even the school’s celebrations bear resemblance to its history, as the University constructed a happy birthday video for 100 years of Harding consisting of many of the same things which were present for its 50th anniversary, such as the governor of Arkansas and other local personalities.
