There is a familiar face appearing on a television set near you. It’s University of St. Thomas volleyball player Heather Hardy. She has a cameo in the latest ad for Popeye’s.

“I was excited,” said Hardy. “This is not my first commercial but it is one of my biggest projects.”

Hardy is a model for Paige Parkes Modeling Agency in Houston. She has been modeling since she was 13-years-old.

Heather tried out for the part during recent auditions in Houston. Auditions were also held in Austin and Dallas. The commercial was shot at a newly built Popeye’s restaurant outside of Conroe. Heather’s day began at six that morning and wrapped up by 12:30p.m., and then she was off to a volleyball game later that same day.

“A lot of my high school friends have been calling or text messaging me about the commercials. My parents still get so excited when they see it on TV, that they call me whenever the ad comes on,” said Hardy.

Hardy has been a member of the UST volleyball team since it began two years ago. She has been playing volleyball for 10 years, including while she was a student at Humble High School.

“I’m really busy and I like to keep my hands in a lot of fun activities. I like to stay as active as possible,” said Hardy.

The UST sophomore says she hopes to major in marketing or accounting, but would like to continue auditioning for more roles in the future. The Popeye’s ad featuring Hardy is a national commercial and is expected to run for one year.