Harding University appoints Dr. Dennis Marquardt as dean of Paul R. Carter College of Business Administration; Brett Biggs Joins as senior advisor
Following a national search conducted by an internal search committee and CarterBaldwin Executive Search, Harding University President Mike Williams announced today the appointment of two distinguished leaders to pivotal roles within the institution. Dr. Dennis Marquardt has been named the next dean of the Paul R. Carter College of Business Administration, and Brett Biggs will serve as senior advisor to the president and executive in residence for the College of Business Administration.
“Brett and Dennis are extraordinary individuals who will propel this University in profound ways,” said Dr. Williams. “With great anticipation, I look forward to working with these transformational, Spirit-led leaders to advance our mission and serve our students.”
Dr. Dennis Marquardt: A Scholar of Leadership
Dr. Marquardt comes to Harding from Abilene Christian University, where he served as associate professor of management and director of the Lytle Center for Faith and Leadership. A respected scholar and educator, his work integrates business excellence and Christian servant leadership.
"It is a genuine honor to join the Carter College of Business Administration and serve alongside its purpose-driven faculty, staff and students,” Marquardt said. “Given Harding's rich Christ-centered legacy, Carter College is uniquely positioned to shape students to excel in a changing marketplace and carry hope, peace and life into the world. Rooted in our commitment to Christ, we can build on all that has been accomplished, engage alumni whose faith and work are bearing fruit, and pursue all that God has prepared."
“Dennis Marquardt is a dear personal friend, a great man of God, a great academic and a great leader,” said Dr. Rick Lytle, CEO and president of CEO Forum. “Harding University is poised to do great things in the College of Business under his leadership. He’s a man of integrity who loves people, and students at Harding will be blessed by him.”
Brett Biggs: Global Expertise
A 1990 alumnus of the Paul R. Carter College of Business Administration, Brett Biggs returns to his alma mater following a storied career in global commerce. He recently retired as executive vice president and chief financial officer of Walmart and currently serves on the boards of Procter & Gamble, Yum! Brands, Adobe and J.B. Hunt. He also previously served as a senior advisor at Blackstone.
“Brett Biggs is a principled leader with exceptional business acumen,” said Doug McMillon, former CEO of Walmart. “His rich insight will greatly enhance the strategic direction of the University and the Carter College of Business Administration.”
Reflecting on his return to Searcy, Biggs noted the significance of the University's influence.
“I’m excited to come back to Harding to work with President Williams and the team in the Carter College of Business Administration,” said Biggs. “Harding has an important role to play in Christian education, and I’m looking forward to ‘coming home’ to advance this mission.”
Information for 
