The award was announced in June in conjunction with the Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication (AEJMC).

“This award is truly an honor, as I’ve watched many administrators I truly admire receive this over the years,” Hardin said. “I’m fortunate to have learned about leadership from colleagues and mentors who have been generous with their time and talents.”

The award is one of the most prestigious among journalism competitions, recognizing exceptional work across platforms and leaders.

Prior to becoming president of Quinnipiac on July 1, Hardin served as Donald P. Bellisario College of Communications at Penn State since 2014.

At Penn State, Hardin championed student media efforts. She was instrumental in the creation of the student media consortium and her visionary efforts have led to the creation of The News Lab at Penn State.

Hardin served as AEJMC president in 2019, and chairs the committee for the Accrediting Council on Education in Journalism and Mass Communication. She also serves on the leadership board of the Alliance of Schools and Colleges of Communication and Journalism and is chair of the steering committee for the Hearst Journalism Awards Program.