Official Newsletter of the Marshall University Foundation and Alumni Association | February 2026

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

Over the past few weeks, Staci, our twins and I have found ourselves in the Cam often, enjoying Marshall basketball and the familiar rhythm of game nights. There’s something special about being in that space and seeing students, alumni and families come together, sharing the same pride that connects all of us to this university.

Later this month, we look forward to working closely with the Marshall University Foundation Board of Directors during our annual winter meeting, Feb. 26–28. While we’re in Greenbrier County for the meeting, we’ll also be hosting several alumni events and activities in the area. Keep an eye out for more information as we look forward to connecting with members of the Marshall family who call that region home.

That same sense of community is front of mind as we look ahead to Alumni Weekend, April 10-11. It’s one of the most meaningful times of the year when we welcome alumni and friends back to campus to reconnect, celebrate and reflect on the impact Marshall has had in their lives. The Alumni Awards Banquet is always a highlight, offering a chance to honor graduates whose achievements and service embody the values that define our university.

As we prepare for these important gatherings, I’m grateful for the momentum you help create. Your engagement, whether through attending events, supporting students, or staying connected from wherever you are, strengthens our work and moves Marshall forward.

I look forward to seeing many of you in person as we (hopefully) say goodbye to the snow and ice and welcome the spring time weather. 

All my best,

Nico Karagosian

President and CEO, Marshall University Foundation

Marshall University News

Foundation News

Quality Insights gifts $1.2 million toward Marshall University’s iCenter

The Marshall University Foundation has announced Quality Insights, a Charleston-based nonprofit, has gifted $1.2 million toward Marshall University’s Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (iCenter).

The funding enables the continuation and expansion of gBETA at Marshall’s iCenter. Run by gener8tor, a national startup accelerator, gBETA is a seven-week, no-cost, no-equity program for early-stage startups with roots in West Virginia.

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Marshall Advanced Manufacturing Center receives $1 million

A new headquarters for the Marshall Advanced Manufacturing Center (MAMC) is one step closer to reality thanks to a $1 million donation from the Gene Haas Foundation.

In recognition of the contribution, MAMC will name the new facility’s 8,000-square-foot CNC machining training center the Gene Haas Advanced Machining Lab, according to Director Derek Scarbro.

Read More

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

Southern Coalfields chapter hosts annual winter dance

The Marshall University Southern Coalfields Alumni and Big Green Chapter hosted its 2026 Denim, Diamonds and Pearls Winter Dance on Jan. 31. The event celebrated the region’s coal heritage while highlighting Marshall's continued growth and future goals.

Beckley’s Bill O’Brien joined President Brad D. Smith for a fireside chat discussing the university’s progress over the past five years and priorities ahead. The evening also featured the debut of the “1837 Blend,” a partnership between the chapter and The Chocolate Moose, a local coffee shop, with a portion of proceeds supporting Marshall For All and its goal of helping students graduate debt-free.

Research and Creativity Symposium set for April 1-2

Marshall University's fifth annual Research and Creativity Symposium is set for April 1–2.

The symposium showcases undergraduate and graduate student research and creative work from across all colleges and disciplines. Through poster sessions, presentations and featured events, the symposium highlights the innovation and scholarship happening on campus and the impact of student discovery.

Alumni are invited and encouraged to attend to connect with the university and see firsthand the work shaping Marshall’s future.

Learn More

The Alumni Association has 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 alumni, faculty and staff, and other members of the Marshall family!

Christopher Worth ('03, 06) is the recipient of the Student of the Year 2026 Award from the American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (AAIDD). Worth is a Ph.D. candidate at the University of Missouri – St. Louis.

🦬 Trivia Time 🦬

Marshall alum and Olympian Lea Ann Parsley brought home a win for Team USA at the Winter Olympics Games in women’s skeleton. Her run down the ice made Olympic history and still makes the Herd proud!

Do you remember what year she won her silver medal?