Major Andrell J. Hardy promoted to lieutenant colonel
Alcorn State University’s Andrell J. Hardy’s hard work with the U.S. Army and the University’s ROTC Program has earned him a higher rank for his service.
Hardy was promoted to lieutenant colonel Tuesday, Oct. 18 in the Dr. Clinton Bristow Jr. Dining Hall Gold Room at the Promotion Ceremony.
Lt. Col. Hardy was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the Transportation Corps in 1998 after earning a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from Tuskegee University. He went on to earn a master’s degree in organizational leadership and development from Chapman University. He is currently working on a second master’s degree in higher education at the University of Louisville.
For most of his career, Hardy has spent his time in tactical and operational units with two deployments to Iraq, one deployment to Afghanistan and one deployment to Egypt. He also deployed to New Orleans in support of state and national level relief operations resulting from damage caused by Hurricane Katrina. His awards and decorations include the Bronze Star Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal, the Army Commendation Medal, the Army Achievement Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Expansionary, and many more.
When Hardy got word of his promotion, he initially planned to avoid the ceremony. But his colleagues encouraged him to participate so that his cadets can see the rewards of hard work and dedication.
“This recognition is for our cadets to see what it looks like to be ranked,” said Hardy. “Anybody with determination is going to be a successful military officer. I want you all to realize that we are here for you. If you give your full effort, I promise to give you my best in return until the day I die.”
Hardy expressed his pride in preparing his cadets to be the leaders of the future.
“No matter what, we are here for our students. We’re here to groom the new leaders of the army, so if we’re not doing our job, then we would fail the country and the U. S. Army. I’m not here to fail.”
After he was pinned, Hardy’s wife, Neifa, presented him with a globe that was signed by some of his dearest friends. He thanked his family, friends and colleagues for their support and encouragement.
