CHARLOTTE, NC – The Principal of Harding University High School, Dr. Eric Ward, passed away suddenly last week at the shocking age of just 46 years old. There will be a celebration of life for Dr. Ward on Tuesday afternoon at Forest Hill Church. 

Ward worked for the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools for nearly 25 years and has served at Olympic, West Mecklenburg, Wilson and Independence schools in the district. He was remembered during the Rams football game on Friday night against Nations Ford (SC).

During his time at Harding, Dr. Ward served on the NCHSAA's Education in Athletics Committee, providing valuable perspective as a principal and educator. The Charlotte Mecklenburg Association of Educators (CMAE) wrote a post for its Facebook page in his honor which stated, "He was well known for his supportive leadership and his sparkling sense of humor." It continued, "Our hearts and prayers go out to Dr. Ward's wife and children, the Harding High, Olympic, West Mecklenburg, Wilson, and Independence communities, and the many people whose lives Dr. Ward touched."

CMS Superintendent Earnest Winston shared condolences as well while highlighting the long-lasting impacts Dr. Ward had in the community saying, "We lost a great leader and person, but his legacy lives on in the staff he led and students and alumni whose lives he impacted during his nearly 25-year career in the district." He added, "We will remember him for his student-centered approach to learning and passion to improve outcomes for students."