Staff Spotlight: Dr. Tony Morrow

Dr. Tony Morrow joined Hardin-Simmons University in 2022 as the Director of Student Achievement. Dr. Morrow brings extensive experience with him, having worked as a developer, director, and instructor for the Department of Student Success at his former university of employment. 

Dr. Tony Morrow

As Director of Student Achievement, Dr. Morrow’s presence on campus is crucial. He shared, “My role involves anything that affects a student’s desire to remain at Hardin-Simmons University.” Dr. Morrow went on to explain that student achievement is linked to student retention.

Looking forward, Dr. Morrow has developed a new initiative called the Strategic Learning Initiative (SLI). This is an extensive, highly successful academic program that provides the cognitive, applicative, and affective skills necessary for incoming freshmen to make a successful transition from high school to college.

1. The cognitive component involves in-class instruction and practice of the tools necessary for success.
2. The applicative aspect provides avenues for applying all acquired skills throughout the semester.
3. Lastly, the affective component creates a personal connection between students and STI staff to help develop drive, trust, and understanding.

Dr. Morrow successfully implemented this program at another institution and is confident it will be successful at HSU too. It was observed that the retention rate of students who participated in STI was positively impacted. The goal of this program is to help struggling students or students who seek to increase their academic performance. 

Dr. Morrow’s life portrays his heart of service and his willingness to help and care for others. Dr. Morrow shared that since 1996, he and his wife have been involved in ministry in Ukraine. In fact, seven years prior to joining HSU, he lived full-time in Ukraine and worked with a non-profit organization that catered to the needs of orphaned teenagers. He opened his home to 21 teenagers during this period as well. During his free time, he loves to fish and hike. He has hiked in Grand Canyon National Park, Guadalupe Mountains National Park, and more. You can always find him at the Richardson Library, where his office is. 

Dr. Morrow’s advice to students is “to have a daily relationship with God and try to live it out every day. If your walk with Christ is strong, you will find within the strength and desire to do your course work.”