Biography
A dynamic leader in the national higher education landscape, Lawrence P. Ward became the University of Hartford’s seventh president in 2024. Since his arrival, President Ward has advanced the University’s longstanding focus on student outcomes through investments in career and professional development, student support services, and campus facilities. Under his leadership, the University of Hartford continues to strengthen its role as a collaborative partner in the economic, cultural, and educational vitality of Greater Hartford and the state of Connecticut.
A nationally recognized leader in higher education, President Ward is known for his student-centered approach and his belief in the transformative power of education. An engaging speaker and panelist, he frequently addresses topics related to leadership, organizational effectiveness, and human potential. He describes his leadership philosophy as creating environments in which individuals feel capable, supported, and empowered to discover their goals and lead with purpose.
Ward came to UHart after a successful 10-year tenure at Babson College in Wellesley, MA, where he served as vice president for learner success and dean of campus life. His previous roles include associate dean for academic programs at American University’s Kogod School of Business; director at PRS, Inc., an organizational development consulting firm; and health care account executive at Aetna.
He earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Connecticut, a master’s degree in higher education administration from the University of Michigan, and a doctorate in higher education management from Penn GSE.
Ward currently serves on the board of directors of the Tuition Exchange and has held several national leadership roles, including membership on the NCAA Board of Governors, chair of the NCAA Division III Management Council, trustee at Albertus Magnus College in New Haven, CT, and public policy director at NASPA – Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education.