“Marshall was the perfect distance from home — far enough to start my new life, but close enough to still see my family,” Jack said. “I didn’t want a huge school, but I also didn’t want something too small. Marshall’s size was just right.”
Jack discovered Marshall while researching colleges with his family. After a virtual tour and campus visit, he quickly felt at home.
“I loved that you could walk from one side of campus to the other in about 15 minutes,” he said. “It’s such a beautiful campus. I knew pretty quickly this was where I wanted to be.”
Originally undecided about his major, Jack found his path during his first business class, Principles of Accounting. Hearing from professionals about the many directions within the field sparked his interest and ultimately led him to declare accounting as his major.
That decision opened doors to leadership, networking and hands-on experience through Beta Alpha Psi, a professional business fraternity that helped Jack build confidence and secure internship experiences.
While Jack’s classroom and professional experiences shaped his career path, one role came to define his Marshall experience in an entirely different way.
Few students can say they spent their college years as one of the most recognizable figures on campus. For Jack, becoming Marco, the university mascot, was more than a fun opportunity — it became one of the most meaningful experiences of his time at Marshall.
“Being Marco has been such a fun and rewarding experience,” he said. “There’s no better feeling than putting a smile on someone’s face, taking pictures and making someone’s day.”
From football games and campus events to community appearances, Jack spent countless hours bringing Herd spirit to life. For him, one moment stands out above the rest.
“Cheering from the sidelines during the Marshall football game against the University of Georgia was unforgettable,” he said. “The stadium was packed, the energy was incredible, and getting to represent Marshall in that moment meant everything.”
Through the mascot role, Jack learned leadership, confidence and the power of creating joy for others — lessons that are sure to stay with him long after graduation.
Outside of academics and his time as Marco, Jack stayed involved on campus through Greek life. As a member of Kappa Sigma, he held several leadership positions, including vice president, assistant treasurer and risk manager.
“Joining a fraternity was one of the best decisions I made,” he said. “It gave me lifelong friends and helped me grow as a leader. Our philanthropy supports veterans and their families, which is something I’m really proud to be part of.”
Between student organizations, football Saturdays and exploring the beauty of West Virginia, Huntington quickly became Jack’s home away from home.
“West Virginia is so underrated. It’s beautiful,” he said. “Some of my favorite memories are road trips through the mountains with friends. Those are moments I’ll always carry with me.”
As Jack crossed the commencement stage, he reflected on how far he’s come since first arriving on campus.
“Coming here from out of state was nerve-wracking at first,” he said. “But putting myself out there changed everything. Between Kappa Sigma, Beta Alpha Psi and being Marco, I built friendships and memories that will last forever.”
Looking back, he says the decision to attend Marshall shaped both his future and who he has become.
“Marshall gave me opportunities I never imagined,” he said. “I’m leaving with a degree, incredible experiences and so many unforgettable memories. Choosing Marshall was the best decision I’ve ever made.”
