Marshall University President Brad Smith and newly appointed head football coach Tony Gibson addressed a passionate crowd of Thundering Herd supporters Thursday night at the Grand Pointe Conference Center in Vienna. The event, hosted by the Marshall University Alumni and Big Green Chapter of the Mid-Ohio Valley, served as both a fundraiser and a celebration of the university’s continued growth and athletic legacy.
Smith opened the evening with updates on the university’s progress and a nod to the powerful impact of the local alumni chapter.
“This particular chapter has raised so much money to help students actually go out and achieve their dreams,” Smith said.
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Since 2009, the Mid-Ohio Valley chapter has raised more than $360,000, supporting scholarships for roughly 120 students attending Marshall University.
Smith, who joined the university in 2022 after a successful 19-year career at Intuit—including a stint as CEO—shared Marshall’s evolution from a one-room academy in 1837 to a modern university focused on innovation, opportunity, and affordability.
“Our goal is to be the most affordable, flexible, and achievement-oriented university in the nation,” he emphasized.
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He also praised the university’s athletics department, setting the stage for Coach Tony Gibson’s speech.
Gibson, a native West Virginian, expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to lead the Herd.
“It’s a dream come true for me to be the head football coach at Marshall University in my home state,” Gibson said. “There’s a lot of pride in that program, and they have a story like no other.”
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Gibson’s coaching journey spans over two decades, including time at WVU, Michigan, Pittsburgh, Arizona, and NC State, where he served as defensive coordinator. Now at the helm of Marshall football, he emphasized the importance of character over career:
“Who you are is way more important than what you do.”
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The evening concluded with a fundraising auction and a stunning vocal performance by Holly Forbes, a top 10 finalist on season 21 of NBC’s The Voice.
With inspiring speeches, community support, and musical talent, the night showcased the spirit of Marshall University—deep roots, big dreams, and a legacy that continues to grow.
