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

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

Happy New Year from the Marshall University Foundation! As we begin 2026, I am energized by the strength of our alumni community and the momentum we are carrying forward.

Last week, President Brad D. Smith and I had the privilege of visiting with alumni and donors in Palo Alto. We gathered for dinner with a group of 10, and the evening was filled with stories, laughter and a shared pride in Marshall’s continued success. One of our alumni graciously invited a colleague to join us — while not a graduate of Marshall, he grew up in Portsmouth, Ohio, and has been following our progress closely. His enthusiasm for what we are accomplishing was a reminder that Marshall's reach extends far beyond our alumni base.

During the evening, President Smith shared updates on Marshall For All, our bold initiative to ensure students graduate without debt. The conversation sparked excitement among those gathered, underscoring how this program is not only transforming lives but also positioning Marshall as a national leader in student success and affordability.

We are grateful to those who joined us in Palo Alto and to all of you who continue to champion Marshall University and support our students. Together, we are building something lasting — and I look forward to more opportunities to connect in the months ahead.

All my best,

Nico Karagosian

President and CEO, Marshall University Foundation

Marshall University News

Foundation News

Marshall For All continues to change lives for students

Gabrielle Hannah is a sophomore majoring in sustainability management and technology and is a member of the second cohort of Marshall For All. She is from Wayne County, West Virginia. Before being part of Marshall For All, Hannah didn't think college was a possibility for her.

“I knew I probably wouldn’t be able to afford to attend Marshall for the full four years, but I prayed that somehow I would figure it out along the way," Hannah said. "I stepped out on faith, applied, and Marshall For All was the answer to that prayer. I got my acceptance letter on my birthday, and it felt like the greatest gift I’ve been given so far."

Learn More About Marshall For All

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

87th Annual Alumni Awards nominations are open

We invite you to recognize extraordinary alumni who have achieved remarkable accomplishments in their careers and communities. Whether through professional endeavors, humanitarian efforts or exemplary leadership in their industry, these alumni emulate the Marshall University spirit.

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

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

Nominate an Alum

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!

Dr. Alan B. Albarran ('76, '78), professor emeritus at the University of North Texas, announces the publication of his latest book, "Rethinking Media Economics" by Eward Elgar Publishers, LTD. It is his 24th published book.

🦬 Trivia Time! 🦬

On Feb. 7, 1985, Marshall's Bruce Morris launched the "Shot Herd Round the World" to set the unofficial record for the longest made shot in college basketball history.

Do you remember just how far Bruce threw the basketball?