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

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

Dear Marshall Alumni and Friends,

One of my favorite things about Homecoming is seeing how quickly the years fall away when alumni return to campus. Friends reconnect, familiar places bring back memories and new experiences remind us that Marshall continues to grow. Throughout this year’s celebration, that connection to our university was evident everywhere.

More than 300 alumni and friends joined our Alumni Homecoming Tailgate in partnership with the Marshall University Black Alumni. Friday evening brought a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the newest members of the MUBA Hall of Fame and recognize the accomplishments and service of these outstanding alumni. Our Marshall University Alumni Association Board also gathered during Homecoming, served lunch at Party on the Plaza and helped judge the parade floats. I am grateful to everyone who volunteered, attended and helped make the weekend so welcoming.

That same spirit extends beyond campus. Staci and I recently joined the Lexington Alumni Chapter leadership for a day at the Keeneland races. It was a wonderful opportunity to spend time together and connect with alumni who help keep the Marshall community strong in their region. I appreciate the chapter’s leadership and the work they do to bring fellow graduates together.

Our Alumni Chapter Match initiative has raised nearly $10,000, and we continue to work with our chapters to build participation and expand its impact. Thank you to those who have already contributed and helped spread the word. It is encouraging to see alumni come together locally to support opportunities for Marshall students.

We are also working with campus partners on a new mentorship platform that will help connect students with the experience and insight of our alumni. Your perspective can make a meaningful difference to a student exploring a career, preparing for an interview or considering what comes next. I look forward to sharing more as this work progresses.

As you read this month’s newsletter, I encourage you to choose one way to get involved. Attend an event, connect with your local chapter, support a student or invite a fellow graduate to join you. You do not have to be close to campus to remain close to Marshall.

Thank you for the pride you carry, the time you give and the connections you keep alive. You help make this university a community that lasts long after graduation.

Go Herd!

All my best,

Nico Karagosian

Marshall University News

Foundation News

Pittenger gifts $75,000 to establish new psychology scholarship

 

The Marshall University Foundation has announced a $75,000 gift to establish the David J. Pittenger Scholarship. The scholarship is generously endowed by Dr. David J. Pittenger, professor emeritus of psychology.

“For nearly two decades, Dr. David Pittenger has served Marshall University through various administrative roles. This generous gift ensures that the positive and significant impact he had on Marshall students will continue for many more decades. We are extremely grateful for Dr. Pittenger’s service, as well as his generosity,” Chris Morrow said, dean of the College of Liberal Arts.

Read more

Weimers gift $25,000 to establish Society of Yeager Scholars endowment

The Marshall University Foundation has announced a gift of $25,000 to establish the Dr. Mathew and Mary Lauren Weimer Yeager Scholars Endowment.

Established by Dr. Mathew “Matt” and Mary Lauren Weimer, the endowment will support the Society of Yeager Scholars. Housed within Marshall University’s Honors College, the Society of Yeager Scholars is a prestigious scholarship and leadership program. Named for Gen. Chuck Yeager, the highly competitive program selects a small cohort of students each year to fully support their four-year undergraduate education.

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 these campaigns reach their goals — it shows belief in the people and ideas shaping a brighter future for Marshall.

Support our crowdfunding campaigns

Alumni News

Alumni Association partners with Liberty Mutual Insurance

The Marshall University Alumni Association has entered a new partnership with Liberty Mutual, offering benefits and savings just for Marshall alumni!

With Liberty Mutual, you can enjoy flexible coverage options, benefits and discounts. So, you can feel confident knowing you — and your wallet — are protected with Liberty Mutual.

Call (855) 640-7187 or visit Liberty Mutual to learn more or receive a free quote.

Lexington Alumni Chapter hosts event at Keeneland

The Lexington Alumni Chapter made the most of a beautiful day at Keeneland on Oct. 3! Members, fellow alumni and friends enjoyed great food, yard games and plenty of fun before heading to The Hill for an exciting afternoon at the races. 

There’s nothing better than bringing alumni together to make great memories!

Live in the Lexington, Kentucky, area? Come join the fun! Connect with fellow alumni, make new friends and be part of the Lexington Alumni Chapter. 

Learn more

Alumni chapters continue to raise funds for Marshall For All

On July 1, the Marshall University Alumni Association launched a brand-new Alumni Chapter Match crowdfunding campaign in support of the Marshall For All program.

All proceeds collected by participating alumni chapters will directly support the Marshall For All program. Currently in the lead is our Emeritus Chapter with $6,000 raised. Congrats! 🎉

Each eligible donation given now through June 30, 2027, will be generously matched by President Brad D. Smith and First Lady Alys Smith.

Support our chapters

Halloween season is creeping in — and so is the fun! At Marshall Alumni | Big Green, we’re excited to help you enjoy the best of fall with spooky festivals, themed events and seasonal treats for the whole family.

Through Marshall Alumni | Big Green Perks Connect, you’ll find exclusive discounts on Halloween festivities, including fall carnivals, pumpkin patches, haunted attractions, costume shops and more.

This Halloween, get into the spirit with fun, savings and a little bit of spookiness! To get started, log in to your account and select Deals from the top menu. Don’t have a PerksConnect account yet? Register now to sign up.

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.

Janet Bennett ('99) passed away peacefully in Phoenix, Arizona, after a career in private practice followed by her work with the Indian Health Service. She first worked for the IHS in Fort Defiance, Arizona, followed by Phoenix /Indian Medical Center. She retired from PIMC in 2016. She was beloved by her patients, especially the Navajo with whom she worked.

🦬 Trivia Time 🦬

Legendary Marshall University coach Cam Henderson revolutionized college sports by inventing or popularizing which two major strategic innovations in basketball?