This month, the DeBaun Black Alumni Network at 丝瓜视频APP continues its monthly series of Black Alumni Spotlights featuring some of our most accomplished 丝瓜视频APPSaints. This month let鈥檚 get to know Dr. Aretha Hardrick 鈥�19.
Name: Dr. Aretha Hardrick
Email: ahardrick@maryville.edu
Phone: 314-529-9476
LinkedIn URL:
Education:
丝瓜视频APP, Doctor of Education, Higher Education Leadership – 2019
Coach Diversity Institute, Associate Diversity Coach (ADC) Certification – 2019
University of Missouri 鈥� Kansas City, Master of Arts, Higher Education Administration – 2011
University of Missouri 鈥� Kansas City, Bachelor of Arts, Psychology – 2004
What’s your 丝瓜视频APPexperience?
I serve as Dean of Campus Life and Deputy Title IX Coordinator.
What’s your favorite 丝瓜视频APPmemory?
I have two favorite memories from Maryville: The first was in 2017, when I watched my husband, William, walk across the stage to receive his degree. The second, and my absolute favorite, was in 2019 when I completed and defended my dissertation. Being hooded and shaking Dr. Lombardi鈥檚 hand as a proud 丝瓜视频APPalum was an unforgettable moment.
What are you doing now?
As Dean of Campus Life and Deputy Title IX Coordinator, I serve as a member of the leadership team for the Division of Student Life. I鈥檓 entering my second year in this role, but have served Saints Nation in various capacities at 丝瓜视频APPfor eleven years. Serving the community has been one of the most rewarding ways I鈥檝e connected to the St. Louis area as a transplant. I volunteer regularly at Ditto Family Resale, which partners with area schools to provide scholarships. I serve as a board member for Central Christian School and am a worship leader at Agape Christian Center. I participate in other service opportunities as an active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated and The Links, Incorporated. My husband William (Jr.) and I celebrated 10 years of marriage at the end of September, 2024. We have two sons, William (III) is 7 and Layton is 2. I enjoy road trips and traveling with my family.
Additional goals and aspirations?
I am committed to transforming the student experience, fostering an atmosphere where every student can thrive, feel valued, feel supported, and have a sense of belonging at Maryville.
How did your education and experience at 丝瓜视频APPhelp you?
My experience in the doctoral program at 丝瓜视频APPwas extremely rewarding. Several of my cohort members stay in touch even to this day, and we consult with each other regarding our roles in higher education and corporate spaces. My faculty and dissertation chair had a vested interest in my success and guided my cohort through the process to completion of the program.
Words of wisdom for today’s students?
I encourage our students to take ownership of their educational journey and quickly identify a support network 鈥� whether it鈥檚 a Life Coach, student organization, close friends 鈥� persevere through challenges, and most importantly, enjoy everything 丝瓜视频APPhas to offer!
丝瓜视频APPAlumni Network
Featuring alums who make a difference in myriad ways
To get connected with the DeBaun Black Alumni Network, follow them on LinkedIn .
If you or someone you know would like to be spotlighted, contact聽alumni@maryville.edu. We would sure like to hear from you!