Lawrence P. Ward Begins His Tenure as University of Hartford President

Ward agrees that a sustainable and vibrant future for the University of Hartford is linked closely to playing a prominent and contributing role in the vitality of the Greater Hartford region and state of Connecticut. He says he is excited by the prospects of collaborating creatively with major corporations, elected officials, civic organizations, and other local colleges to expand UHart's educational and economic ecosystem. Ward notes that strengthening those regional connections is also vital to expanding UHart's enrollment model and elevating the brand to new levels of recognition beyond the region.

"I have long admired the University's unique array of schools and academic units, including compelling combinations of the liberal, performing, and creative arts, with great depth in the sciences and professions," Ward emphasizes. "As president, I will embrace not only UHart's mission, proud history, and strengths, but also confidently lean into new opportunities and substantive challenges-while demonstrating a deep appreciation for the values of transparency and community engagement."

Ward holds multiple leadership positions in higher education, including as a member of the NCAA Board of Governors, chair of the NCAA Division III Management Council, and trustee at Albertus Magnus College in New Haven, Connecticut.

Ward earned his bachelor's degree in business administration from the University of Connecticut, his master's degree in higher education administration from the University of Michigan, and his doctorate in higher education management from the University of Pennsylvania, where he holds a faculty appointment in the Graduate School of Education.

Ward and his wife, Katerie, an elementary school teacher, are both from the Greater Hartford area and they have two children: Aidan, who lives and works full time in New York City, and Emerson, who will begin college this fall. His extended family has been a staple in the Hartford region since the 1940s. Ward's father is president emeritus of the Hartford Jazz Society, his mother is a retired human resources executive, and his brother is currently senior pastor of First Church Congregational in West Hartford.

"My most fundamental truth is that leadership success is about the people whom I lead and the communities that I serve," Ward adds. "Without question, returning home to Hartford to lead this incredible institution into its next chapter is a very special and exciting opportunity for my family and me."