Carroll Hardy, or "Dean Hardy" as she was affectionately called by students in the 1980s and 1990s, is credited with being a tireless advocate for diversity at W&M and improving the campus experience for students of color. Hardy joined W&M in 1980 as Associate Dean of Multicultural Affairs and served in several different capacities, including Associate Dean of Students for Minority and Commuting Student Affairs and Associate Dean of Student Affairs. Among her many accomplishments at W&M and beyond was the establishment of the National Black Student Leadership Development Conference for college students across the country. She also founded the Hulon Willis Association for African-American students and alumni, worked to increase diversity of W&M's student body through six summer enrichment programs for students in grades 8 to 12, and helped create and support 15 multicultural student organizations at William & Mary. Hardy, who received honorary alumna status at W&M, passed away in 2012. Hardy Hall is named in her honor.