Since taking office in 2017, Shannon has led the university through an era of record growth and advancement. The university launched new academic programs at every degree level, such as cybersecurity, engineering, physical therapist assistant and ministry. His journey with FHU began in the mid-1980s when former president E. Claude Gardner walked into a Centerville-area sawmill and invited a young David Shannon to consider enrolling. During his first year at the university in 2017, Shannon last rang the bell alongside former FHU presidents Dr. E. Claude Gardner and Dr. Milton R. Sewell. 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.