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WALTER hARRisoN
UnIveRSITy pReSIdenT
fundraising.
Growth, vitality, and service
to the community are key
attributes of Walter Harrison’s
first 10 years as president of
the University of Hartford.
Since his appointment as the
University of Hartford’s fifth
president in 1998, the University
has experienced a period
of energy and momentum unmatched
in its history. President
Harrison has overseen
dramatic improvements in academic
quality, finances, and
More than 7,300 students (5,600 undergraduates and 1,700
graduate students) study at the seven schools and colleges of the
University of Hartford, which is classified as a doctoral research–
intensive university by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement
of Teaching. The institution has seen a 15 percent increase
in undergraduate enrollment, and a 23-percent increase in degrees
awarded, over the past decade. A highly visible figure on
campus, President Harrison is known for his enthusiasm for student
life and University activities, and is fondly referred to as Walt
by many students.
hartford hawks men’s lacrosse
During President Harrison’s tenure, the University has undertaken
a vigorous and comprehensive building campaign. Many of the
University’s residence halls have been renovated, and Hawk Hall,
the University’s new five-story, 208-bed residence for first-year
students, was completed during the summer of 2007. The ovalshaped
Alumni Plaza, constructed out of concrete of various colors
and finishes, now provides students with a large gathering
spot on the residential side of campus.
At the heart of this construction campaign are three major new
additions to the University’s signature academic programs: The
Renée Samuels Center of the Hartford Art School (opened in January
2007), the Integrated Science, Engineering, and Technology
Complex (opened in 2005), and the Mort and Irma Handel Performing
Arts Center (opened in September 2008), which houses
the Dance and Theatre divisions of The Hartt School. The Handel
Center, located in the Upper Albany and Blue Hills neighborhoods
of Hartford, one mile east of the University’s campus, also
contains space for community activities.
Two buildings have been renovated to house two of the University’s
leading liberal arts programs: Psychology (East Hall) and
Communications and Cinema Studies (Abrahms Hall). In 2006,
the University opened new state-of-the-art athletic fields for soccer,
lacrosse, softball, and baseball.
The University’s vibrant relationship with the Greater Hartford
community is a hallmark of President Harrison’s tenure. The University
has become a recognized leader in helping to improve