Dancing with the Herd is a student-led, fundraising event featuring Marshall University couples and groups who will perform choreographed routines, while raising money for student-based funds. Through a collaboration with the Marshall Contemporary Dance Company, each participating couple or group has been partnered with a team of student or faculty choreographers to help prepare their routine for the dance floor. The winners of the Marco Mirrorball Trophy will be determined by a rubric that weighs both the judges’ scores and the total amount of money raised. Donations will directly support the participating couples or groups and the student-focused causes they champion.
“For Marshall Health Network, supporting Dancing with the Herd is an investment in Marshall University’s students, the Huntington community, and the future of our region,” said Matt James, vice president of Foundations, Marshall Health Network. “On a personal level, it’s been a privilege to be part of this event and to watch students lead something so meaningful.”
This year, there are three couples participating alongside two groups, each raising money for a student fund of their choosing:
Couples:
• Dr. David Gozal, dean of the Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine, and his wife Elaine Gozal: Country Roads First Step Scholarship
• Alumni Dr. Sydnee McElroy and Justin McElroy: Student Emergency Fund
• Dr. Brandon Dennison, vice president of economic development and workforce development, and his wife Ashley Dennison: Experiential Learning Fund
Groups:
• The Woodlands Retirement Community: Marshall for All, Marshall Forever
• The Starting Seven: Niesha Campbell, deputy director of athletics, joined by Deja James, Kylie Fisher, Molly Fisher, Leslie Thomas and Emily Suter: HERd Leadership Circle
“Every day, I have the privilege of watching our female student-athletes push boundaries, chase dreams, and redefine what’s possible,” Campbell said. “Dancing with the Herd is my opportunity to step outside my comfort zone, have a little fun and give back to the incredible young women who inspire me daily. This is about so much more than dancing. It’s about investing in opportunities, empowering the next generation of women leaders, and ensuring our student-athletes have the resources they need to thrive. If a few dance moves can help make that happen, count me in!”
To support this effort, visit www.marshall.edu/dancingwiththeherd and find each giving link. Your donation directly supports the participating couples and the student-focused causes they champion. Every gift, no matter the size, creates a real and lasting impact for our students and their futures.
For sponsorship or attendee information, contact Connor Waller at waller45@marshall.edu.