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

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

Dear Herd Nation,

As 2025 comes to a close, I am filled with gratitude for the extraordinary generosity, energy and shared purpose that define our Marshall community. This year has been one of historic milestones, transformational gifts and unforgettable moments all made possible by your belief in our mission.

Thanks to your support, 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. Together, we are building a future where students graduate debt‑free and step boldly into lives of purpose and impact.

Your generosity helped us achieve record‑breaking results this year:

• More than $80 million in new gifts and commitments.

• Over 3,600 donors, including more than 2,200 alumni and nearly 900 new supporters.

• National recognition with Candid’s Platinum Seal of Transparency, affirming our commitment to stewardship and excellence.

Looking Ahead

• Dec. 13 – Commencement exercises for summer and fall graduates at the Marshall Health Network Arena.

• Dec. 31 – Final day for 2025 calendar year gifts. To make your gift and support Marshall’s mission, visit give.marshall.edu.

Finally, check out the new basketball Sky Deck at Cam Henderson Center — a space designed to bring alumni, donors and friends together in support of the Herd. This addition reflects our ongoing investment in the Marshall experience and the pride we share in building something lasting: Marshall Athletics, Big Green Team Up To Unveil The “Sky Deck” - Marshall University Athletics

As we gather with loved ones this holiday season, I am deeply grateful to each of you for your trust, your partnership and your unwavering pride in Marshall. Together, we are not only celebrating what we’ve accomplished, but also laying the foundation for what’s to come.

Happy Holidays, Happy New Year and Go Herd!

Nico Karagosian

President and CEO

Marshall University Foundation

Marshall University News

Foundation News

Dr. Kazuko Otaki Thornton establishes scholarship

The Marshall University Foundation has announced The Dr. Kazuko Otaki Thornton International Student Scholarship. The scholarship is generously endowed by Thornton, a 1967 graduate of Marshall University.

Thornton, who grew up in a post-World War II Japan, said she decided to establish the scholarship because of scholarship aid she received as a sophomore at Marshall.

“It was very expensive for me to study in this country, but I was fortunate to be able to manage with the help of my family and a Marshall University scholarship,” Thornton said.

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Jack Houvouras gives $25,000 to School of Journalism

The Marshall University Foundation has announced a $25,000 gift from Jack Houvouras to the W. Page Pitt School of Journalism and Mass Communications.

Houvouras presented the gift during this year’s School of Journalism and Mass Communications’ Hall of Fame ceremony on Nov. 7, and an accompanying crowdfunding campaign titled “$100,000 for 100 Years” was announced. The school seeks to raise $100,000 in recognition of the program’s 100th anniversary in 2026.



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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

Huntington Chapter participates in Herd Holiday

The Marshall University Huntington Alumni Chapter was in full holiday cheer as it hosted the cookie decorating table at this year's Herd Holiday on Dec. 8.

Herd Holiday is one of Marshall’s most beloved traditions, drawing students, families, alumni and community members together to celebrate the season.

The event included the annual tree lighting ceremony, pictures with Santa Marco, live performances, and holiday arts and crafts activities.

View Photos

87th Annual Alumni Awards nominations are open

You can be a part of Marshall's biggest night of the year for alumni during the 87th Alumni Awards Banquet in April 2026!



Submit an online nomination today to recommend an outstanding member of the Marshall University family for an alumni award.

There are numerous awards including Distinguished Alumnus/Alumna, Distinguished Service to Marshall University, Outstanding Community Achievement and Distinguished Young Alumnus/Alumna.

Nominate an Alum

Looking for the perfect stocking stuffer? Meet the Mini Marco Bobbi-Dobbie!

Make a gift of $25 or more to the Alumni Association General Fund and receive your own Bobbi-Dobbie Marco as a thank-you.

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

Donate by Dec. 14 for the best chance of receiving your Bobbi-Dobbie before the holidays. Please note, delivery is not guaranteed and may be impacted by carrier delays.

Big news for fans of PerksConnect!

The Alumni Association recently partnered with the Big Green Scholarship Foundation to offer even more perks to Marshall alums!

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!

🦬 Trivia Time! 🦬

In the 1970s, Marco had a girlfriend! Do you remember her name?