Lawrence P. Ward is a dynamic, nationally respected higher education leader with deep Connecticut roots and serves as the seventh president of the University of Hartford. He brings to UHart a decade of senior leadership experience from Babson College, where he guided major capital projects, advanced student-success initiatives, strengthened fundraising and partnerships, and elevated campus culture across academics, athletics, and student life.

At the University of Hartford, President Ward leads during a pivotal period focused on holistic student success, strategic industry partnerships, and expanding access for students throughout the region—supported by transformative investments from Stanley Black & Decker, Hartford HealthCare, Pratt & Whitney, and other corporate and community leaders.

Renowned for his authentic, people-centered leadership, Ward provides strategic direction for the full student and campus experience and is widely recognized for helping individuals and institutions reach their maximum potential. He is a sought-after national speaker, serves in multiple higher-education leadership roles, and holds a faculty appointment in the University of Pennsylvania’s Graduate School of Education.

Ward earned degrees from the University of Connecticut and the University of Michigan, and completed his doctorate in higher education management at the University of Pennsylvania.