The event brought together researchers, administrators, campus partners and university leadership to celebrate the collective impact of Marshall University’s sponsored programs enterprise. Despite winter weather conditions, attendees gathered to recognize the dedication, expertise and collaboration that continue to strengthen the university’s research mission.
During the event, MURC highlighted its sponsored programs performance for fiscal year 2025, which included $67.7 million in external funding across 302 awards led by 129 principal investigators, reflecting continued growth in Marshall’s research enterprise.
“This celebration is about recognizing the people behind the proposals, the partnerships and the persistence it takes to bring those to fruition,” said John Maher, vice president for research. “Our faculty and staff continue to navigate a complex and competitive funding landscape to achieve success, and their work has immense benefits for our students, our state and our region.”
The program highlighted accomplishments from the past year, including funded research projects, interdisciplinary collaborations and grant activity aligned with Marshall University’s Pillars of Excellence. Special recognition was given to faculty and staff whose work has driven innovation in areas such as advanced manufacturing, health sciences, education, aviation and community-based research.
“Grant-funded projects expand our reach, enhance our reputation and contribute to academic excellence at Marshall, while providing invaluable experience for our students,” said Robert Bookwalter, interim provost and senior vice president for academic affairs. “I am grateful to the faculty and students who create inspiring projects, develop successful proposals and advance the university’s research mission, as well as to the external funding agencies that provide critical support.”
President Brad D. Smith also offered remarks, recognizing the resilience and commitment of Marshall’s research community and emphasizing the role of grantsmanship in addressing national priorities while delivering meaningful impact in Appalachia.
The Excellence in Grantsmanship Celebration reflects MURC’s ongoing commitment to supporting researchers throughout the full lifecycle of sponsored projects, from proposal development and award negotiation to compliance and post-award management.
For more information about MURC and Marshall University’s research initiatives, visit marshall.edu/murc.
Additional photos from the event are available at muphotos.marshall.edu/2026/Events/Miscellaneous/MURC-Grantsmanship-Celebration.
About the Marshall University Research Corporation
The Marshall University Research Corporation supports the research, innovation and creative activity of Marshall University by facilitating proposal development, award management, compliance and strategic partnerships. MURC works collaboratively with faculty, staff and external sponsors to advance research that drives discovery, education and economic development.