4 days ago
Political strategist speaks on legacy of former Arkansas state senator Lu Hardin
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — Just one day after the passing of former Arkansas State Senator and former University of Central Arkansas President Lu Hardin, he was honored at the State Capitol.
Memorial portraits and a commemorative plaque were unveiled outside the Senate chambers, recognizing a life dedicated to public service, education, and leadership.
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Among those reflecting on Hardin's impact was longtime Arkansas political strategist Bill Vickery, who first met Hardin during his 1995 U.S. Senate campaign. Vickery described Hardin as a rare political figure—both a servant leader and a genuinely kind person, qualities he said left a lasting impression on those who knew Hardin.
'Lu Hardin is one of the few people in politics that's actually worth it to work for,' Vickery said. 'He was unfailingly nice in every situation—tremendous class in victory and defeat, a real servant's heart.'
Hardin, a Democrat, gained political momentum in the 1995 Senate primary, ultimately finishing second to then-Attorney General Winston Bryant. Vickery recalled the intensity and optimism of those early campaign days, noting Hardin's focus, dedication and ability to inspire those around him.
'Lu and I would spend nights dreaming up the next day's strategy,' Vickery said. 'Even under pressure, he made it fun. He was honest, focused and never let the weight of the campaign get to him.'
Hardin's legislative work placed a strong emphasis on improving education in Arkansas, a passion he carried with him throughout his career—including during his tenure as President of UCA, where the university saw significant growth.
'UCA really began to take off when Lu took over,' Vickery added. 'His commitment to higher education helped mold UCA into what it is today.'
Despite a later blemish on his record—Hardin pleaded guilty in 2009 to fabricating memos in a scheme to secure hundreds of thousands in bonuses from UCA's Board of Trustees—Vickery emphasized that Hardin's overall legacy should be measured by the decades of positive impact he had on students, constituents and institutions across Arkansas.
'People will never know how much Lu worried, focused and sacrificed simply because he wanted to do the best job he could for the people he served,' Vickery said. 'When you look at Lu's life and the overwhelming amount of good that he did, that's something we should all aspire to.'
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As news of Hardin's death spread, Vickery said he was struck by the outpouring of emotion and memories from people whose lives were touched by Hardin's work and presence.
'He leaves an indelible mark—not just on the Capitol walls, but on the people of Arkansas,' Vickery said.
Attempts to reach Hardin's family for comment on this story were unsuccessful, but Vickery believes the full measure of his friend's legacy lives on through the lives and institutions he helped shape.
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