Gilbert, whose social media accounts are already robust, has amped up his online activity by communicating weekly with students via video and, most recently, even crooning a few lines to one of his favorite Johnny Cash tunes. The videos have been met with acclaim by many students and others who shared their appreciation for Gilbert’s efforts on Instagram and other platforms. Below are a few of the Instagram comments:
- britttt_michelle This is so inspiring and just what we needed! Thank you so much for going above and beyond to be such a wonderful and dedicated president! You are very much appreciated, GO HERD 💚
- laura_l_stapleton Love seeing the personal side of our president! Very uplifting! 💚
- beccystaley Readers are leaders! Thanks for keeping in touch during this time!
- tymiamilbee I can’t LOVE this enough! Such an inspiring, warm hearted and genuine person and I’m proud to be the parent of a Marshall student! 💚
- parcelsandpostplease I don’t think I could love this more! Thank you for sharing this with us!! 💚#IamBecauseWeAre
During a typical semester, Gilbert often engages with students, faculty and staff around campus. With the university operating via distance learning because of the pandemic, Gilbert looked for alternative methods of communicating to the Marshall community. His existing social channels seemed the most viable option.
“Like everyone else, I am working from home and missing my Marshall family,” Gilbert said. “Technology has allowed me to communicate to everyone, albeit in a different way. I am hopeful the messages are inspiring and will help our students stay the course during a very difficult time.”
President Gilbert’s social accounts and handles include Instagram and Twitter. Handles for both accounts are @MarshallUPres. Marshall University accounts, @marshallu, may be found on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn.