Louisiana Christian University has announced the appointment of Dr. Marcia Hardy as the new dean of the Ray and Dorothy Young School of Business and the Martin MBA program, a move that brings a familiar name back into regional academic leadership circles.
Hardy previously served as a professor of business administration and management at Northwestern State University, where she taught in the College of Business and Technology.
Hardy holds a Ph.D. from the University of California–Los Angeles, with specialization in management from the Anderson School of Management and research and evaluation from UCLA’s Graduate School of Education. Her doctoral research focused on the success factors of entrepreneurship. She also completed Ph.D. certification through the Chicago School of Professional Psychology in organizational leadership, strategic management, and planning.
Her academic background includes a master’s degree from the University of Missouri–Kansas City and a bachelor’s degree from Loyola University New Orleans. Hardy also holds a certification in artificial intelligence and business strategy from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, along with national certifications in Quality Matters, Google Analytics, and negotiation and leadership from Harvard Law School.
At LCU, Hardy said her initial focus will be on listening, learning, and building trust across the university community.
She said she plans to evaluate both undergraduate and graduate programs, engage with faculty, staff, students, alumni, and industry partners, and identify areas of strength and opportunity. Hardy noted that expanding experiential learning, internships, applied projects, and mentoring opportunities will be a priority, along with strengthening enrollment and partnerships with the business community.
Hardy also emphasized the role of values-based education, stating that Christian business education should prepare graduates who are skilled and competent while also being ethical and purpose-driven leaders.
LCU President Dr. Mark Johnson said Hardy’s appointment aligns with the university’s vision for graduate education and workforce development, emphasizing personal formation alongside professional preparation. He noted that her background in entrepreneurship, organizational leadership, and emerging technologies positions the university to expand its impact across Louisiana.
Hardy is the author of the book EDI: A Guide to Electronic Data Interchange and Electronic Commerce Applications and has published dozens of journal articles. She has delivered professional presentations at the local, state, and national levels and has received multiple awards for teaching and service, including a legislative award from the U.S. Department of Defense for leadership and dedication.
She currently serves as international president-elect of the Phi Beta Delta Honor Society for International
Scholars, which includes more than 200 chapters worldwide.
In addition to her academic career, Hardy has experience as a business owner and community leader.
She has served as co-founder and president of McLure, Moynihan Inc. in California, CEO and owner of The Nest Wellness Spa & Wellness Center, and recently as chairman of the United Way of Central Louisiana. She is also active at Calvary Baptist Church in Alexandria.
Vice President of Academic Affairs Dr. Henry Robertson said Hardy’s experience and scholarship will strengthen the Young School of Business and its MBA program, noting her commitment to student success and academic excellence.
Hardy said her combined experience in academia, business, and community leadership allows her to bridge theory and practice while preparing students to lead with integrity and purpose in the business world.
Note: Dr. Marcia Hardy was a former professor in the College of Business and Technology and former faculty Senate President at Northwestern State University in Natchitoches, Louisiana.
