Celebrating 41 Years of Service: Dr. Ann Hackert Retires

When Dr. Ann Hackert joined Idaho State University 41 years ago as a tenure-track faculty member in the College of Business, she was drawn by ISU’s deep commitment to transforming student lives. From her very first semester, she knew she had found her place: “Our students inspired me over my career with their determination to learn,” she said.

Over the course of her career, Dr. Hackert has taught nearly every course in the finance curriculum. She created the Personal Finance course and shepherded it through the process to become part of ISU’s General Education program, ensuring that students from across disciplines could develop knowledge and skills to benefit their financial lives. Most recently, she developed innovative electives to prepare students for the future of business, including AI in Financial Management. Students in the class immediately began using what they learned, applying it to their jobs, entrepreneurial endeavors, and finding the value of their skill set as they applied for jobs.

Her favorite memories are of her students’ successes, and their willingness to let her help them—whether it was meeting up in person or on Zoom to work together whenever they needed her, finding their first job, connecting with campus resources like Benny’s Pantry, or navigating the challenges of university life. “It was important for me to meet students where they were and support their success,” said Dr. Hackert.  

Dr. Hackert’s impact has extended far beyond the classroom. She served as ISU’s inaugural Director of Assessment, where she successfully addressed accreditor concerns and even earned a positive commendation in their report. She supported two successful College of Business accreditation reviews, served as a journal editor, and traveled nationwide to lead research workshops at institutions such as the University of Illinois and Providence College. 

As Faculty Senate Chair, she helped establish ISU’s ombudsman program, which has since grown to serve both faculty and staff. With the support of HR leadership many years ago, her experiences led to changes that supported new parents so their leave did not involve reduced pay. These policies are now baked into the culture of Idaho State University. “I have always been honored to serve my colleagues and students, whether in public, in private, or by quietly supporting their challenges and goals,” she says. 

Ann explains that her career was supported and thrived thanks to her husband, Dr. Hal Hellwig, who remains in the English department and who she met at ISU when her former secretary set them up on a blind date.  Living within walking distance of ISU meant the campus felt like their backyard. As she explains, “my kids learned to ride bikes on the quad, bowled in the student union, and viewed ISU as their backyard.” 

Ann is looking forward to the next chapter with a full research pipeline to complete and using her time to serve her community.