Jim Thornton, a Son of Marshall who last fall served as Marshall’s Homecoming Grand Marshal, has been named as the 2026 Spring Commencement speaker for Marshall’s graduation ceremony set for Saturday, May 9 at the Marshall Health Network Arena.
“Being invited to give Marshall University’s 2026 Commencement Address is a tremendous honor,” Thornton said. “Every time I’m on campus I am overwhelmed by the pride and enthusiasm I feel from EVERYONE. Marshall holds a special place in the hearts of Huntingtonians like me, and I am incredibly proud to help us all celebrate this achievement together.”
Thornton was hired by WOWK-TV after high school where he gained hands-on experience in broadcast news. And, as a freshman at Marshall in 1983, Thornton found himself at Marshall’s student radio station, WMUL-FM, having long been captivated by the voices of his favorite disc jockeys on the local radio stations. Thornton’s early interests ultimately set him on the path to where he is today.
Thornton relocated to Los Angeles to pursue a career in broadcasting and voice work and never left. His career took an exciting turn in 2004 when he voiced episodes of “The Price Is Right,” and in 2011, when he was hired as the announcer of the iconic game show “Wheel of Fortune.”
Marshall University President Brad D. Smith said the university community is pleased to welcome Jim Thornton back to campus.
“Last fall, Jim honored us by serving as our Homecoming Grand Marshal,” Smith said. “We’re thrilled he has agreed to return as our commencement speaker. Once you’re part of the Herd, that connection to this university lasts a lifetime.”
Marshall will mark its Spring Commencement with two ceremonies at 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Saturday, May 9 at the Marshall Health Network Arena.
For more information about the day, visit www.marshall.edu/commencement