• Recognition
• Legacy Society
• Pathway of Prominence
• Founders Circle
• President's Circle
• John Marshall Society
• Heritage Society
• Dean's Circle
• 1837 Society

Founders Circle

The Founders Circle represents the spirit and dedication of three individuals from Marshall's early history who founded Marshall Academy. Their visionary leadership began the journey to where we stand today. The following donor recognition societies include their names:

• JOHN LAIDLEY SOCIETY - In recognition of lifetime gifts and pledges of $750,000 to $999,999.
  
  Laidley was a prosecuting attorney of Cabell County and delegate of the Virginia Legislature, was one of the moving forces in establishing Marshall Academy, serving as a trustee for many years. He was instrumental in having the school named Marshall Academy in honor of his friend, the late Chief Justice of the United States John Marshall, who had died two years earlier.
  
  
• JAMES HOLDERBY SOCIETY - In recognition of lifetime gifts and pledges of $500,000 to $749,999.
  
  Holderby purchased land in 1821 upon which much of Marshall University now stands. He was a prosperous farmer and business man, who supported Marshall throughout his life. The Trustees purchased one and a quarter acres of land at Maple Grove from him for $40, the deed calling for the land to be "used for the express purpose of an Academy and no other use."
  
  
• WILLIAM BUFFINGTON SOCIETY - In recognition of lifetime gifts and pledges of $250,000 to $499,999.
  
  Also one of the founders of the community of Guyandotte, then part of Virginia, Buffington was among the first trustees of Marshall Academy when the Virginia General Assembly passed a bill on March 13, 1838 incorporating Marshall Academy.

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