Henderson, Tenn. – As students return to campus and receive their new iPhone 3GS as part of the FHU iKnow Initiative, they will have resources like no other institution, and access to the nation's fastest 3G mobile broadband network, right here in Henderson.   

Last year the iKnow Initiative put an iPhone or iPod touch in the hand of every freshman and student that wanted one. This year, the program enters its second year and now can boast 3G services.

“We congratulate AT&T for bringing 3G service to our community," said John Bentley, chief information officer at Freed-Hardeman University. “This service will continue to elevate the iKnow Initiative and our ability to provide the most technologically advanced education in the state and possibly in the southeast.  AT&T’s 3G network will enrich the overall student experience, make our information more readily accessible and most importantly, help us reach the objectives of the program.”

Faculty at Freed-Hardeman University also utilize the power of the iPhone in the classroom. Converting to 3G means new applications created by the faculty, a smarter classroom, and more power all in the palm of their hand.

“We have all been asked to create new apps for campus and for our students,” said Dr. LeAnn Self-Davis, dean of the school of science and mathematics.  “We are developing an app that will measure waste on campus allowing us to become a more “green” campus. 3G will only allow us to do this faster.”

Mark Scott, director of instructional technology agrees that AT&T’s 3G network will further enhance the already nationally recognized iKnow Initiative. "This is a significant development for our iKnow Initiative. Previously it was necessary for the students to be connected to the FHU network in order to take advantage of the iKnow application. This 3G network provides a new opportunity for our students to access accelerated data speeds which will allow for a more seamless experience both inside and outside of the classroom."

Classes begin August 26 on the campus of Freed-Hardeman University. All freshman, sophomores, about half of our faculty, and students who decide to opt into the iKnow program will have access to AT&T’s 3G network if they choose to sign up for a calling plan with AT&T and select the iPhone option of the iKnow Initiative.