Donald "DJ" Hardwick, a second-year graduate student in the Higher Education and Student Affairs Administration (HESAA) program at Buffalo State University, stands as a beacon of dedication and advocacy for student success. Representing both undergraduate and graduate students on the University Council, DJ ensures their voices are central to university decisions. His commitment extends as he serves as a Graduate Assistant in Student Leadership and Engagement, a Senator in the Graduate Student Association, and the Chair of the HESAA Graduate Student Collective. Additionally, his role as an Intern with the Vice President of Student Affairs and his active participation in the College Senate Standards for Students Committee further underscore his dedication to the Buffalo State community.
Nationally recognized, DJ is a graduate fellow with the National Association of Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education (NASPA). Hailing from Nebraska, he earned his bachelor's degree from the University of Nebraska at Kearney and has since contributed to institutions including the University of California Merced and Oklahoma State University. As a first-generation student, DJ is deeply passionate about fostering inclusive and engaging environments for all students navigating post-secondary education.
Beyond academia, DJ dedicated seven years to the Dundy County Historical Society Board of Trustees and, as a living kidney donor, actively advocates for the importance of living organ donation. In all his endeavors, DJ embodies a spirit of service and leadership, consistently striving to enhance the student experience at Buffalo State University and beyond.