MS SC655

Recognizes Dr. Mark G. Hardy, Sr. for his 30+ years of service in higher education, including 26 years at Jackson State University where he served as Assistant Professor, Department Chair, Dean, and Provost/Vice President for Academic Affairs.

Honors his academic leadership roles including oversight of Mississippi Alliance for Minority Participation (MAMP) Program and Office for Naval Research (ONR) Program, as well as extensive Faculty Senate participation.

Acknowledges his appointment as Vice President for Academic Affairs at Tennessee State University in 2013, where he oversaw 12 colleges and divisions, and his retirement from TSU in December 2017.

Recognizes his lifetime service to the Church of God in Christ (COGIC), including roles as Minister of Music, Deacon, Trustee, Ordained Elder, and Assistant Pastor, plus his 1984 Mississippi Gospel Music Award-Winning Album "Don't Give Up."

Extends the Legislature's best wishes to Dr. Hardy and his family upon his retirement.