Sydney Barbour, political science major from Ona, West Virginia, is proudly carrying on a three-generation legacy that began with her grandmother, Margaret Wright Miller, in the late 1960s. Margaret was a senior at Marshall during the tragic 1970 plane crash and went on to earn both undergraduate and graduate degrees in education.
“As a high school senior from Webster County, some classmates and I visited Marshall’s campus, and it just felt right,” Margaret said. “I always say I received a good education at Marshall, and my time there was a positive experience. I think Michele and Sydney understood what I meant—and that perhaps that led them to choose Marshall, too.”
Decades later, Sydney’s mother, Michelle Biggs, followed in her footsteps as a student—and today, serves Marshall as the director of the Herd Academy and advisor to the Student Government Association (SGA).
Sydney’s own Marshall journey began early, when she started taking dual enrollment courses through Marshall’s Herd Academy while still in high school. She said the experience gave her a first glimpse of campus life and made the transition to being a full-time student feel natural.
“Continuing my family’s legacy was one of the many reasons I chose Marshall,” Sydney said. “Every day, I feel honored to walk in the footsteps of the successful women before me and work toward my own goals.”
Now a rising junior, Sydney is charting her own path with a passion for social justice and a plan to attend law school to pursue a career in technology and media law. Through her involvement in the Honors College, Greek life, the Intercultural Learning Community, and SGA, she’s making her mark on campus—just like the women who came before her.
“It’s interesting how, although the three of us have attended the same university, we all have had different majors and career aspirations,” she said. “Despite the differences, my grandmother and mother are two of the most hardworking people I know. They’ve inspired me to be a diligent and driven student.”
One of the most special elements of Sydney’s Marshall experience is having her mom close by. While she admits she was initially nervous about the dynamic, Sydney now sees it as a gift.
“She is extremely supportive of my work and personal goals,” Sydney said. “Some days I’ll pop into her office for a hug, advice or just to hang out—it’s comforting knowing she’s right there if I need her. We’ve also shared moments I’ll always treasure, like participating in the Fountain Ceremony together.”
For Michelle, watching her daughter embrace Marshall life has been a full-circle moment.
“Sydney basically grew up on campus—attending and volunteering at events and riding in the Homecoming parade,” Michelle said. “It’s been amazing to see her grow through her time here, especially as she’s found her own way while still honoring our family’s legacy.”
Sydney hopes that Marshall will remain part of her family’s story for generations to come.
“Having a fourth generation of my family at Marshall would be outstanding and rewarding,” Sydney said. “This university is constantly evolving, and I know it will continue to be a remarkable place.”
