Official Newsletter of the Marshall University Foundation and Alumni Association | November 2025

A letter from the president and CEO of the Marshall University Foundation

Dear Herd Nation:

As November unfolds, I continue to be in awe of the extraordinary generosity, energy and shared purpose that define our Marshall community. From Homecoming celebrations to year-end milestones, this season reminds us not only of how far we’ve come, but of the future we’re building together.

Thanks to your belief in our mission, Marshall For All continues to inspire. The ripple effect of President Brad D. Smith and First Lady Alys Smith’s transformational gift is already visible in new commitments, energized conversations, and a growing movement to eliminate student debt across West Virginia and Appalachia.

This month, we’re focused on stewardship, strategy and celebration. Our advancement team is preparing for the final stretch of calendar year giving with personalized outreach, celebratory events, and new ways for alumni and friends to engage. Every gift — large or small — helps shape the next chapter of Marshall’s story.

We’re also proud to share that the Marshall University Foundation has earned Candid’s Platinum Seal of Transparency for 2025, a reflection of our transparency, impact and commitment to excellence. This recognition belongs to every member of our team, Foundation board member and every donor who supports our work. Thank you.

Looking Ahead

Nov. 14

We gather for the Memorial Fountain Ceremony honoring the 75 souls lost in the 1970 plane crash. This solemn tradition reminds us of the strength, resilience and unity that define the Marshall spirit.

Nov. 15

Marshall Football takes on Georgia State in Atlanta. Join us for a spirited tailgate from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Wood’s Chapel BBQ (85 Georgia Ave). Complimentary food and non-alcoholic beverages will be served, with a cash bar available. RSVP by noon on Nov. 14 to fisher281@marshall.edu.

Nov. 16

With a thrilling 3-2 overtime victory over West Virginia University, our men’s soccer team advanced to the Sun Belt Conference Championship. Join us at 1 p.m. at Hoops Family Field as The Herd takes on the University of Central Florida.

Dec. 8

Herd Holiday brings festive cheer to students, families and friends across campus.

Dec. 13

The Marshall University commencement exercises for summer and fall graduates will be held on Saturday, Dec. 13, at 10 a.m., in the Marshall Health Network Arena. Doors to the arena open at 8 a.m.

Dec. 31

Last day for 2025 calendar year gifts. To make your gift and support Marshall’s mission, visit give.marshall.edu and choose the initiative that means the most to you.

As we gather with loved ones this Thanksgiving, I’m especially grateful for each of you — for your trust, your partnership and your unwavering pride in Marshall. Together, we are building something enduring.

All my best,

Nico 

Marshall University News

Foundation News

Foundation receives Platinum Seal of Transparency

The Marshall University Foundation is pleased to announce it has received the Platinum Seal of Transparency from Candid, a nonprofit offering comprehensive data and insights about nonprofit organizations.

A Platinum Seal of Transparency is the highest level of recognition Candid awards to nonprofits. Fewer than 1 percent of U.S. nonprofits receive this seal, and nonprofits with a platinum seal are viewed twice the amount than nonprofits without them. Having a seal is associated with an average of 53 percent more in contributions.

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Foundation announces 2025 Impact Report

The Foundation's 2025 Impact Report is available for viewing.

The Foundation experienced a significant boost in funding in fiscal year 2025, with $80.4 million in new gifts and commitments. The Foundation's annual Day of Giving also saw a surge with a record-breaking $275,189.

Much of this year's report centers on Marshall For All. Learn about how the impact of giving is changing lives for Marshall students in this groundbreaking program.



View Impact Report

Crowdfunding campaigns make an immediate impact. When you give, you join a community of supporters who come together to create real change.

Every contribution, no matter the size, helps to provide opportunities and meet urgent needs that move projects forward.

Your support not only helps reach the goal — it shows belief in the people and ideas shaping a brighter future for Marshall.

Support Our Crowdfunding Campaigns

Alumni News

Join us for Dancing with the Herd on Dec. 4

Dancing with the Herd features famous Marshall University couples dancing to raise funds and create a fun, memorable evening for all.

During the event, the couples will perform a choreographed routine, and a panel of judges will provide feedback and scores. Guests will enjoy a delicious dinner as they watch the performances unfold, creating a lively and entertaining evening for everyone in attendance. The winners of The Marco Mirrorball Trophy will be determined using a rubric that weighs both the judges’ scores and the total amount of money raised.

Purchase Tickets

Tuscaloosa's 'Marshall Four' recognized with statues

Joe Hood, Larry Sanders, Robert VanHorn and Freddy Wilson were members of the 1970 Marshall Football team, and were among those lost in the plane crash on Nov. 14.

Natives of Tuscaloosa, Alabama, and graduates of Druid High School, the "Marshall Four" became some of the first Black athletes to receive athletic scholarships to a major university.

On Nov. 5, statues honoring Hood, Sanders, VanHorn and Wilson were unveiled in Tuscaloosa. A documentary is also in the works that will commemorate the four players.

Photo credit: WSAZ

The Alumni Association recently partnered with Bobbi-Dobbiez to create a Dobbie of our favorite mascot! These portable, plush friends can latch to your backpack, lanyard, shoes and more!

For a contribution of $25 or more to the Alumni Association General Fund, donors will receive a Bobbi-Dobbie Marco as a thank-you gift.

The fair market value of the Bobbi-Dobbie is $15, and the remaining amount above that will be considered a tax-deductible donation.

Did you know? The Marshall University Alumni Association offers PerksConnect, an exclusive perks program available to all Marshall alumni.

With PerksConnect, you’ll gain access to a range of discounts — both locally and nationwide. From dining and shopping to travel and entertainment, your free account unlocks big savings wherever you are.

Getting started is easy. Visit marshall.perksconnection.com to register and start saving immediately.



Class Notes

Class notes are a great way to stay up-to-date with news from former classmates and other alumni, faculty and staff, and other members of the Marshall family!

💚 Never Forget 💚