Dr. Henry Collier named the inaugural executive director of the Institute for Cyber Security at Marshall University

Marshall University officials announced today that Dr. Henry Collier has been named the inaugural executive director of the Institute for Cyber Security at the university.

Marshall Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Avinandan “Avi” Mukherjee said the university benefited from a strong applicant pool, with individuals eager to direct Marshall’s future opportunities in cyber security.

“The search committee narrowed this pipeline of interested applicants to five semifinalists who were invited to airport interviews in Columbus,” Mukherjee said.  “We emerged from that process with strong alignment on three finalists who were invited for on-campus interviews over the past few weeks. Each campus finalist had a campus-wide presentation and Q&A session, along with the opportunity to meet with the faculty, staff, students and administration. We also had the benefit of watching the recorded video of the public forum and reviewing the feedback surveys and ratings from all stakeholders. While each finalist proved to be uniquely qualified, Dr. Collier emerged as being the most qualified candidate to steward Marshall’s excellence in cyber security.”

Collier is currently the director of technology programs at Norwich University’s College of Graduate and Continuing Studies. He leads and manages the Master of Science in Cybersecurity program, the Master of Science in Information Systems, the Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity, and the Bachelor of Science in Computer Science & Information Systems programs. His areas of research include artificial intelligence, networking, and the human firewall.… Read More

Marshall University Spring Faculty Meeting celebrates award recipients

Marshall University faculty were recognized today during the university’s spring general faculty meeting in the Joan C. Edwards Performing Arts Center on the Huntington campus.

Three people were given the Distinguished Service Awards.  Two qualify for Distinguished Service Awards, individuals must have at least 20 years of service at Marshall University, a record of distinguished service to the university and/or college and a record of distinguished teaching as evidenced by peer, administrative and/or student evaluations.  The Distinguished Service Award winners will receive $1,000.  They are:

Dr. Keith Beard, professor of psychology, College of Liberal Arts

Dr. Wendell Dobbs, professor of music, College of Arts & Media

Dr. Kelli Williams, professor of dietetics, College of Health Professions

Also recognized at the meeting were the following individuals who were honored with six separate awards. They are:… Read More

Marshall senior selected national winner for peer instruction

Marshall University senior chemistry major Peregrine “Perin” Schray has been named Outstanding New Supplemental Instruction Leader by the International Center for Supplemental Instruction at the University of Missouri, Kansas City.

Schray is the supplemental instruction (SI) leader for Chemistry 205 at Marshall, a class that covers general chemistry, organic chemistry and biochemistry and serves health science students.  SI occurs in regularly scheduled, twice-a-week voluntary sessions outside of class, reviewing class material and providing instructions on helpful learning techniques.  The SI program is one of the flagship programs supported by Marshall’s Center for Student Success.

“We are very proud of Perin and the great work he is doing at Marshall,” said Dr. Avinandan “Avi” Mukherjee, provost and senior vice president for academic affairs. “His commitment to the success of his fellow students underscores the importance of peer mentorship at Marshall and promotes a sense of community and support among peers, creating a collaborative learning environment for learning and growth. Marshall’s innovative approach to student success through the four-pronged mentorship approach is facilitated by Perin and our nationally recognized supplemental instruction program.”

“I am honored to receive this award,” Schray said. “Being a supplemental instruction leader has been a highlight of my time at Marshall. I am so grateful to the chemistry department, the Center for Student Success and my fellow SI Leaders. I would also like to thank my current and former SI students: you all are amazing, hardworking, incredibly kind, and super smart.”… Read More

Collegiate Recovery Network team member to receive national honor

Aaron Blankenship, West Virginia Collegiate Recovery Network (WVCRN) team member and peer recovery support specialist at Southern West Virginia Community and Technical College will be honored with the ARHE Cornerstone Award for Student Support at the 2024 Association of Recovery in Higher Education (ARHE) National Collegiate Recovery Conference in San Diego, California, this summer. The award honors an individual or organization who has gone above and beyond to support students in recovery.

The Cornerstone Award recognizes and celebrates the core of what the field is about: supporting students in recovery.

The WVCRN is housed in the Marshall University Research Corporation at Marshall University under the direction of Susie Mullens with support from the Marshall University Center of Excellence for Recovery.

“Through his unwavering dedication and tireless efforts, Aaron Blankenship exemplifies the essence of the ARHE Cornerstone Award for Student Support,” said Dr. Pamela Alderman, president of Southern West Virginia Community and Technical College. “His commitment to going above and beyond in supporting students in recovery transforms lives and serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for our community. We celebrate Aaron’s profound impact and recognize him as a cornerstone of support for those navigating the recovery journey.”… Read More

Dan D’Antoni appointed as Marshall ambassador and technical advisor

Marshall University today announced the appointment of Lewis (Dan) D’Antoni as ambassador and advisor in support of advancing its visionary strategy — Marshall For All, Marshall Forever — a roadmap that aims to level the playing field of opportunity for all who have the aspiration and grit to try.

In making the announcement, Marshall University President Brad D. Smith said there are few in Marshall history who epitomize the phrase — Marshall for All, Marshall Forever — like Dan D’Antoni.

“His journey has showcased the arc of possibility and achievement, while dedicating his life to the success of the next generation and Marshall University, ” Smith said. “After years of contribution to the Marshall Men’s Basketball program – from player to head coach – Dan is now transitioning into a new role as a Marshall ambassador and advisor.”

In this position, D’Antoni will collaborate closely with Marshall’s president to inspire the next generation of high school students to dream big and choose Marshall as their gateway to prosperity. His efforts will include supporting the highly successful “Run with the Herd” initiative to champion the Marshall story across West Virginia and throughout Appalachia. In addition, he will be engaged with potential and longstanding donors to advance the university’s aspirations.… Read More

Marshall Board of Governors approves budget and tuition rates for FY25

The Marshall University Board of Governors today approved a $345 million budget for the next fiscal year, including a nominal increase in tuition and fees, and plans to increase employee salaries.  

Approval was given for an overall 2.5% increase to in-state undergraduate and graduate fee rates, as was a three percent increase in housing and dining rates.  The increase equals about $220 more a year for undergraduate students and $230 more annually for resident graduate students. Tuition and fee rates for non-resident, international and metro undergraduate and graduate students will stay flat.  

Marshall University President Brad D. Smith said the university remains dedicated to its enduring financial principles.  

“We are grounded in our principle to grow students and not fees, so the tuition and fees increase that was approved today is very modest, below current inflation,” Smith said. “And in support of the principle to invest in our team, we are awarding the state funds for a pay increase.  Every employee will get a $1,000 lump sum payment and a one percent base salary increase.”  

Additionally, Smith said that a market equity study has been concluded. As a result, $1 million, sourced by the university’s “Save to Serve” program, will be allocated to employees who deviate furthest from market norms.  Read More

Marshall dedicates Brad D. Smith Center for Business and Innovation

Marshall University officials, faculty, staff and students celebrated Wednesday afternoon the official dedication of the Brad D. Smith Center for Business and Innovation, located at 1425 4th Ave. in Huntington.

The new facility housing the Lewis College of Business, Brad D. Smith Schools of Business is about 78,000 square feet and features some of the latest technology to educate 21st Century business students and serve the business community, including a 360-seat auditorium with the latest technology, a finance lab that will house 12 Bloomberg terminals, a computer lab, and nine classrooms with ThinkHub Education technology that includes an instructor station and student stations that can work both collaboratively and independently.

“The Brad D. Smith Center for Business and Innovation was necessary to overhaul Marshall’s business education, emphasizing teamwork, innovation and local economic integration,” said Marshall Provost Avinandan “Avi” Mukherjee, former dean of the Lewis College of Business. “This new facility serves as a nucleus for this transformation, providing Marshall students with cutting-edge resources, technology, and collaborative spaces vital for success in today’s business landscape. For faculty, it offers an environment conducive to interdisciplinary collaboration, research advancements, and fostering a culture of excellence, thereby enhancing their ability to deliver top-tier education.”… Read More

Marshall theatre students to present ‘Brighton Beach Memoirs’ by Neil Simon

Marshall University’s School of Theatre and Dance will present the Neil Simon play “Brighton Beach Memoirs” at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 10, through Saturday, April 13, in the Joan C. Edwards Playhouse.

The play is a coming-of-age comedy about Eugene Morris Jerome, a Jewish teenager growing up in Brooklyn, New York, in 1937 and is the first in a trilogy of Simon’s plays that also includes “Biloxi Blues” and “Broadway Bound.”

“It’s a show that speaks to anyone who remembers what it’s like to come of age at the onset of extraordinary times and how family bonds last a lifetime,” said Samuel Kincaid, box office and public relations manager for the School of Theatre and Dance.

The play is directed by Marshall University School of Theatre alumnus T. Michael Murdock, who is also the co-founder and artistic director of The Alchemy Theatre in Huntington.   The play stars George Kinley as Eugene; Camden Gleason as Stanley; Jimi Lawson as Jack; Samantha Phalen as Kate; Nikki Riniti as Blanche; Eliza Aulick as Nora and Kate Kennedy as Laurie.

Tickets are available at the door and by contacting 304-696-ARTS. They are free for Marshall students with a valid MU ID. They are $22 general admission and $15 for seniors aged 60 and older and Marshall employees. The production is sponsored by the School of Theatre and Dance in the College of Arts and Media.

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Renowned entrepreneur and motivational speaker Chris Gardner to address graduates at Marshall University’s 2024 Commencement 

Marshall University officials are pleased to announce that Chris Gardner, acclaimed American businessman, motivational speaker and author will serve as the commencement speaker for the Class of 2024.  

The commencement ceremonies are scheduled for Saturday, April 27, at the Marshall Health Arena in Huntington.  

Gardner’s remarkable journey from homelessness to success has inspired millions around the globe. As the founder and CEO of Gardner Rich LLC, he has demonstrated exceptional resilience, determination and compassion throughout his career. His bestselling autobiography, “The Pursuit of Happyness,” was made into a movie starring Will Smith in 2006.  

Marshall University President Brad D. Smith expressed his excitement about Gardner’s selection as the commencement speaker.

“Chris Gardner embodies the spirit of Marshall University. His personal story, professional accomplishments, grace, and compassion resonate deeply with our mission to educate students, many of whom are from overlooked and underserved communities,” Smith said.  “Marshall University is proud to celebrate individuals who, like Chris, have overcome adversity to achieve extraordinary success.” 

The commencement ceremonies are scheduled for 9 a.m. and 2 p.m., allowing graduates, families and friends to join in the celebration of the significant milestone. All guests should be aware of the following when planning to attend the events.  

Parking Read More

Marshall University Sustainability Department Hosts Earth Day Fair

The Marshall University Sustainability Department will host an Earth Day Fair, an event dedicated to promoting environmental consciousness, fostering community engagement, and celebrating planet Earth.

Everyone is invited to join the Marshall community from 10:30 a.m. until 2 p.m.  Wednesday, April 10, at the Memorial Student Center Plaza and Buskirk Field for a day filled with educational workshops and other activities, and opportunities to make connections.

The following are a few of the opportunities on campus.

Forty student and advocacy groups will set up booths to share their passion for sustainability. Those who stop by can engage in conversations, learn about eco-friendly initiatives and discover ways to make a difference. Groups will host interactive workshops covering topics such as recycling, energy conservation and sustainable living. Organizations will have giveaways and raffles. Students and members of the public can grab some eco-conscious swag and enter raffles for a chance to win sustainable goodies. An EV car show and ride-along opportunity will be part of the event. Participants can experience the future of transportation by checking out electric vehicles up close and even taking a ride. A wildlife rehab exhibit will offer a chance to learn about local wildlife conservation efforts.

All Earth Week activities are free and open to the public. Students, faculty, staff and community members are welcome to join in celebrating a shared commitment to a greener, healthier world.… Read More

Alys Smith Symposium on Women Professionals Spotlights Women of Journalism

Marshall University will host the Alys Smith Symposium on Women Professionals, featuring Women of Journalism, at 7 p.m. Wednesday, April 10, in the Shawkey Dining Room of the Marshall Memorial Student Center. 

This semester’s symposium will feature Susan Nicholas, an alumna of Marshall University from the class of 1990, and currently serving as a news anchor at WSAZ. Nicholas will deliver the keynote address, sharing insights and experiences from her career in journalism. 

The symposium aims to celebrate and highlight the achievements and contributions of women in the field of journalism. It will feature a diverse panel of accomplished women professionals who have made significant strides in journalism. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with the panelists through a thought-provoking discussion and a Q&A session. 

 The event is free and open to the public, welcoming all individuals interested in learning from the experiences of women in journalism. Following the symposium, attendees are invited to join a reception, providing a networking opportunity to connect and interact with fellow attendees and panelists. 

 The Alys Smith Symposium on Women Professionals, featuring Women of Journalism, is sponsored by The Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies Program and the Office of the President at Marshall University. 

For more information contact Dr. Hillary Brewster at brewsterh@marshall.edu 

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Marshall’s last Amicus Curiae Lecture  for Spring 2024 is Thursday, April 11

Marshall University’s Amicus Curiae Lecture Series on Constitutional Democracy will end the 2023-2024 academic year with a lecture by POLITICO editor, author and lawyer Peter Canellos titled “John Marshall Harlan and the Power of Dissent.”

The event, which is free and open to the public, is set for 7 p.m. Thursday, April 11, at the Brad D. Smith Foundation Hall.

Canellos’s lecture will focus on the meaningful judicial career of U.S. Supreme Court Justice John Marshall Harlan, a Kentuckian who served on the court during a time of deep division in the United States, 1877-1911.  Harlan made his mark by dissenting from U.S. Supreme Court rulings that denied African Americans the rights they had won in the Civil War, including its famous “separate but equal” ruling in Plessy v. Ferguson that effectively created two separate societies for Black and white Americans. The majority also made rulings depriving Congress of the tools it needed to fight monopolies and rejected state efforts to protect workers’ rights. Justice Harlan dissented in these cases, articulating powerful reasoning and views that eventually became the law of the land.

Canellos explores those cases and the man himself, a Civil War veteran from a slave-owning family, who fought for the Union. Canellos is author of the “The Great Dissenter: The Story of John Marshall Harlan, America’s Judicial Hero,” which Publisher’s Weekly named one of the top 20 nonfiction books of 2021.

“Peter Canellos’s book about Justice Harlan illuminates an era that is relevant to our… Read More