Hannibal-LaGrange University (HLGU) recently welcomed national youth advocate and detransitioner Chloe Cole to campus for its Free Society event on Wednesday, March 25, 2026. Centered on the theme “Facing Giants,” the evening brought together students, faculty, and community members for a thought-provoking conversation on identity, purpose, and the cultural challenges facing today’s generation.
Cole, a 21-year-old speaker and advocate, shared her personal story and offered insight into the “giants” many young people encounter—ranging from emotional and cultural struggles to ideological and societal pressures. Drawing from her personal journey, she encouraged attendees to approach these challenges with courage, conviction, and a commitment to truth.
Her message aligned closely with the mission of HLGU’s Free Society initiative, which seeks to foster meaningful dialogue around the principles of a free society through a biblical worldview. The program emphasizes democratic governance, free-market economics, and the role of cultural institutions such as the church in shaping a flourishing society.
“We were honored to host Chloe Cole for a thoughtful and engaging conversation that challenged our community to think deeply about identity, truth, and compassion,” said Dr. Eric Turner, Chair of the Arts and Humanities Division and Associate Professor of New Testament and Greek. “Her willingness to share her story with honesty and courage created opportunities for meaningful dialogue across generations, and we are grateful for the impact this event had on our campus and beyond.”
The event served as a continuation of HLGU’s commitment to equipping students and the broader community to engage critically and faithfully with today’s most pressing issues. Attendees left with a renewed sense of purpose and encouragement to face life’s challenges with resilience and faith.
HLGU will continue the Free Society series with an upcoming campus event featuring distinguished entrepreneur Zan Prince on Monday, April 13 at 7:00 p.m. in The Loft. Prince, one of the university’s most significant donors, will be visiting campus for the first time. As the owner of a bank in Texas that remained open during the oil banking crisis of the 1980s—when many financial institutions failed—Prince brings a powerful story of resilience, innovation, and principled leadership.
The campus community is invited to attend and extend a warm welcome during this special evening, which will include a time of conversation and small desserts. The event offers valuable insight for students, faculty, and staff, with themes that connect to a wide range of academic and professional learning outcomes.
For more information about Hannibal-LaGrange University and its Free Society initiative or upcoming events, please contact Charlie McKeon at 573.629.3260 or charlie.mckeon@hlg.edu, or visit www.hlg.edu.