While he had plans of attending law school, the Lord had other plans that gave him invaluable experience from the USMC to working in Kentucky coal mines, to retail management, to Christian concert promotions.  While serving as pastor of a church in Kentucky, Dr. Hackney began working in summer school programs and teaching part time in the public schools.  It was here that God birthed a love for teaching children and helping to mold their lives for Christ.

Dr. Hackney came to Southpointe in June of 2006 with his wife Shirley and daughter Marissah.  Shirley is an accomplished speaker and minister while daughter Marissah is currently a senior in high school and active in the church music ministry and worship team.

Dr. Hackney is a recognized speaker for Christian education and often is a seminar speaker for ACSI and other teacher/student leadership events.  He comes with a long list of community, educational, and professional honors in his many years of service.

Dr. Hackney enjoys motorcycles, singing with his daughter, playing the drums on the worship team and conducting classes for adults.