Testimonials

Happy Hill Farm Academy, founded by Ed Shipman and his family, is one of the most effective programs for young people I’ve seen in my 99 years!  The formula for the care and education is being requested by many communities worldwide, and recently, a building has been constructed to receive those interested, in order that they might see first-hand this excellent operation that makes such a difference in the lives of students.  The love, the education, and the activities offered through the 12th grade prepares young people for college with scholarships and other assistance.  Our company, and I personally, have been consistent supporters of the Academy . . . the new library is named for me.  I can’t say enough good things about this wonderful operation which Ed Shipman and his family devote their hearts and lives to, and they do it with only private donations and no government dollars.

Ebby Halliday
Ebby Halliday Realtors


As a supporter of your efforts, I have been aware of how difficult it is to maintain such a quality boarding school when you give away so much through scholarships. It has also been inspirational to watch the growth of some of the individuals who have gone through the program at Happy Hill Farm Academy. Many young people have flourished thanks to you and your staff. It could not work without love, concern, and dedication. I admire you all for your efforts and wish you continued success with this wonderful Academy.

Sincerely,
Roger Staubach
The Staubach Company
(Former Dallas Cowboy)


For many years I would pass by Happy Hill Farm Academy on the highway between Granbury and Glen Rose and observed what appeared to be a first class operation, but really had no knowledge of their purpose and program.

On the insistence of Bob Bolen, former Mayor of Fort Worth, I attended a luncheon and field day at Happy Hill some five years ago. This was the most impressive, heartwarming experience I have ever encountered. To see the magnificent facilities and smiling faces on the students, and to learn about their educational program in a Christian environment is indescribable.

Ed Shipman, his family, and associates have done an incredible job with Happy Hill Farm Academy. I am proud that our organization has provided financial support to assist with their program and would encourage your support as well.

If you have not been to the Academy, go by and see it. You will be glad you did.

Sincerely,
W. R. Watt, Jr.
Southwestern Exposition and Livestock Show


There is no question that the greatest challenge facing our nation today is saving kids so they can become productive citizens. Happy Hill Farm Academy, operating mainly from private donations, does a unbelievable job of stretching resources to educate as many students as possible.

I personally plan to continue to provide as much support as possible in the future to Happy Hill Farm Academy, and I would urge others to make the same commitment. I’m convinced that anyone who does visit Happy Hill Farm Academy will absolutely want to get involved in this very worthwhile ministry to deserving students. I urge you to get involved. It’s a decision you won’t regret.

Sincerely,
David Terre
Wilson Sporting Goods


It is a great privilege to extend my recommendation for Happy Hill Farm Academy and Ed and Gloria Shipman.

I know of no other organization that is meeting the needs of students in such a quality way as the dedicated, courageous, hard-working, and loving people who are there. There are endless success stories about young lives.

Please consider what you might be able to do for them. Supporting Happy Hill Farm Academy is one of the best investments Mary and I have ever made.

Sincerely,
Robert P. Breunig
Breunig Commercial
(Former Dallas Cowboy)


It is a privilege to be a partner with Happy Hill Farm Academy in the absolutely vital ministry of providing a loving, Christian environment for such precious young people. We strongly encourage your prayerful consideration for partnering with Ed Shipman and Happy Hill Farm Academy. Rarely will you find such an opportunity to participate financially and personally with such a sincere and effective effort of integrity, which is changing the lives of our next generation.

Most Sincerely,
Horace and Mary Ardinger
H. T. Ardinger & Son Company


The Shipmans, along with the entire staff of Happy Hill Farm Academy, are extraordinary people who provide much needed help to deserving children. The integrity of Happy Hill Farm Academy, its staff, and programs gives donors assurance that their funds are being used properly. Your financial support is further rewarded in the fact that Happy Hill Farm Academy will continue to provide care and guidance to these students, which ultimately leads to a brighter future.

Sincerely,
Keith Martin
San Antonio Livestock Exposition, Inc.


As I continue my efforts to assist in the process of improving the education available for every student in the state of Texas, I often think of the work you have done over the years in helping a great many youngsters become happy, productive adults. Happy Hill Farm Academy is an extraordinary place in providing both the personal and academic development in that loving, caring atmosphere.

The energy and devotion that you have brought to the school and those thousands of youngsters have been the reason for your great success. You and your colleagues are worthy of great support from all of us who genuinely care about the development of all young people.

With all good wishes,
Valleau Wilkie, Jr.
Sid W. Richardson Foundation


Our Foundation has had the opportunity to support Happy Hill Farm Academy since 1982. We feel it is one of the most significant areas of our endeavor. The work Ed Shipman and his associates have done with the students is a modern day miracle and certainly Divinely inspired.

This Foundation can without any reservation whatsoever recommend Mr. Shipman and his associates as people of the highest integrity.

Yours very truly,
John P. Ryan
The Ryan Foundation


I am sorry to say that it took this long for me to get there, as over the years, I heard from so many people, including my team-mates, of the awesome things the Academy does. However, I underestimated just how great it could be. I was so impressed by the land, animals, gardens, educational facilities, equipment, staff, and children that you are reaching out to. What a grand ministry you and Gloria have provided. I salute you and your staff! Your undying efforts have succeeded in making a difference in these students’ lives.

The challenges that you have faced over the years have been numerous, and through your faith and perseverance you have succeeded in the commitment of helping children realize their strengths and self-worth. Meeting the spiritual needs of these children is also a blessing.

Through God, you, your family, and staff have been faithful servants. If there is ever anyway that I may help you or the Academy, please remember that I am a phone call away.

I wish you continued success in all your endeavors and the future of Happy Hill Farm Academy.

Sincerely,
Troy Aikman
Aikman Enterprises
(Former Dallas Cowboy)


It’s truly a shame that so many young boys and girls in our country today don’t have the benefit of a loving, nurturing home environment, and certainly there is no substitute for that. But Happy Hill Farm Academy comes closest to any organized mission that I know of in providing that family atmosphere and helping people find out who they are, develop their strengths, and become contributors to society in a boarding school atmosphere.

Your faith and perseverance have been remarkable, along with that of the rest of your staff. I commend you for it, and it is my pleasure to give my most heartfelt endorsement to your work to whom it may concern.

Sincerely,
Norman E. Miller
Interstate Batteries


This letter is offered in support of Ed Shipman and Happy Hill Farm Academy, along with the staff, for providing such an outstanding boarding school and Academy. The school provides education in a Christian environment and stands head and shoulders above other organizations with a similar mission.

I cannot say enough about Happy Hill Farm Academy and would recommend it highly to any organization that seeks to explore the possibility of making a grant or participating in the ongoing operations of the organization.

Sincerely,
Robert M. Lansford
Philanthropic Services, Bank One


” . . . I also want to comment on the beauty of Happy Hill Farm Academy. It is obvious that you are doing God’s work and that He has blessed you and your hard work and vision. I also know that to whom much is given, much is expected, and you have met that standard. Many children’s lives are immeasurably improved and may be even saved due to your caring and effort. On behalf of them, I want to thank you . . . “

John R. Seita, Ed.D.
Liberty Fund Symposium

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Happy Hill Farm Academy

3846 N Hwy 144, Granbury, TX, 76048

254.897.4822 » Get directions

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