#United States #Henderson #NUTmobile #FHU #Adleigh Mayes

FHU Graduate Adleigh Mayes Takes a Sweet Journey Across America

In a delightful twist for recent graduates, Adleigh Mayes, an alumna of Freed-Hardeman University (FHU), has embarked on a unique cross-country journey in none other than the Planters NUTmobile. This whimsical 26-foot-long vehicle, shaped like a peanut, has become a symbol of joy and community engagement as it rolls across America, and Mayes is at the wheel alongside her fellow recent graduates.

Just five months after completing her studies, Mayes returned to her beloved campus to share her new adventure with fellow students at FHU on October 21, 2025. The occasion was not just about showcasing the NUTmobile; it was a celebration of the joys of her new career as one of the 'Peanutters,' tasked with spreading happiness and, of course, samples of salted and honey-roasted peanuts.

Planters, the renowned snack brand, leverages this extraordinary opportunity by hiring recent graduates from communication and marketing backgrounds, blending their professional skills with a fun-filled lifestyle on the road. Mayes discovered the job opportunity through family channels, with her father jokingly proposing it as a perfect fit for her. Little did she know that her father's playful suggestion would lead her into a competitive application process that saw between 800 to 900 candidates vying for the coveted position.

As she navigated through the selection process, Mayes found herself reflecting on her own roots. "I’m from Dothan, Alabama, known as the peanut capital of the world, and my dad works in the peanut industry. He played a crucial role in helping me prepare for the interviews," she said. Her journey progressed, culminating in a final round where selected candidates were flown to Chicago for in-person engagements. There she and her peers worked on creative projects before being evaluated on teamwork dynamics to decide who would become a part of the NUTmobile team.

Ultimately, Adleigh was selected to join Hudson Ritchie and Aria Conte, her fellow Peanutters, as they tackled driving duties, planning schedules, and booking locations to set up their unique promotional stops. Their journey began in June 2025, with the trio sharing unforgettable moments as they made their way across various cities, garnering attention and smiles from peanut lovers far and wide.

As they stopped in cities throughout the Midwest and East, they enjoyed friendly interactions, a hallmark of being on the road in such an eye-catching vehicle. Mayes remarked, "We all get along really well - like siblings. Our job requires a genuine willingness to socialize and engage with people daily. Driving a giant peanut definitely invites curiosity and conversations!" The NUTmobile will extend its travels into the southern regions before aiming westward, ultimately making a stop in San Francisco during the 2026 Super Bowl!

Now that all the Peanutters have toured their alma maters, Mayes reflected on how FHU prepared her for this exciting career path. "All my communication courses contribute to my work now—writing reports and pitching ideas for our visitations. My time at FHU has been immensely beneficial," she noted as she stood outside the university's walls once again.

Freed-Hardeman University prides itself on developing students' unique talents, combining education with Christian principles and a commitment to service. The institution, located in Henderson, Tennessee, offers a diverse range of academic programs—from associates to doctoral degrees—focused on empowering students for future success.

As Mayes shares her journey from FHU to the NUTmobile, it serves as a reminder of the meaningful adventures that await graduates who embrace their passions on the road ahead. For more on FHU and its educational offerings, visit fhu.edu.