Founder: Pastor Elder Kevin C. Hardy, M.Div., M.Ed.

Pastor Elder Kevin C. Hardy is a New Haven–based educator, pastor, and community advocate who champions a whole-person approach—spiritual, mental, physical, and relational. Across three decades in public education and more than a decade in ministry, he has built programs that equip men, strengthen families, and grow thriving congregations.

Community leadership and civic impact

• Executive Director and Visionary, ManCave New Haven, Inc. (formal nonprofit launched 2026), advancing “Healthy Men and Stronger Communities” through mentorship, workforce development, and men’s health advocacy.
• Assistant Director of Career & Professional Development and Adjunct Professor, Albertus Magnus College, guiding first-generation and adult learners toward sustainable careers.
• Former West Haven Public Schools educator and instructional coach (31 years; retired 2023), and Adjunct Professor, University of New Haven Teacher Prep Program (1999–2012).
• Active member: NAACP; 100 Black Men of America; New Haven Works Advisory Board.

Church leadership: Installed as Pastor of Saint Matthew’s Unison Freewill Baptist Church in December 2014, Elder Hardy honors the legacy of his predecessor Bishop Robert J. Gay while leading a new era of growth centered on education, training, and empowerment. Under his leadership, Saint Matthew’s has realized more than 35% growth over 12 years, living out its mission as “The Church that C.A.R.E.S. (Church Actively Reaching Everyone).” Signature initiatives include “Church Outside the Walls,” a city-facing evangelism and service day that mobilizes the congregation beyond the sanctuary.

Education and credentials

• Doctor of Ministry (in progress), United Lutheran Seminary
• Master of Divinity, Kairos University / Missio Seminary — 2024 President’s Award
• Sixth‑Year Degree in Educational Leadership, Southern Connecticut State University
• Master of Arts in Teaching, Quinnipiac University
• Bachelor of Science, University of Connecticut

Personal: Elder Hardy is the husband of First Lady Valerie L. Hardy and father to Karynn and Kevin. He credits God for every opportunity and draws daily strength from Psalm 103:1–2: “Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits.”

To invite Elder Hardy to speak or to explore partnership with ManCave New Haven Inc., use our contact form.