Brad D. Smith was elected as President of Marshall University in October 2021 and stepped…
Reflections on 2024: Brad D. Smith’s Year in Review
Driven by his love of West Virginia and a commitment to empowering its communities, Brad D. Smith approached 2024 with a full and rewarding schedule centered around expanding education, philanthropy, community outreach, and economic growth both locally and nationally.
From advancing Marshall University’s mission as its president to spearheading new initiatives through the Wing 2 Wing Foundation, Brad has worked tirelessly to uplift others. The year also saw Brad broaden his influence through prestigious board memberships and new programs that address critical challenges in his home state of West Virginia and beyond.
A Vision for Accessible Education
This year marked Brad’s third year as President of Marshall University, a milestone he acknowledged during the university’s Board of Governors meeting. “Time passes so quickly when you count by semesters,” Brad shared. “I am deeply grateful to have the opportunity to serve this amazing institution alongside such dedicated individuals.”
As Marshall University’s president, Brad focused on clearing pathways to higher education, ensuring that students can achieve their dreams without being hindered by financial barriers. These crucial advancements have led to significant progress at Marshall University and throughout communities across the Mountain State.
- High School Tours & the Cabell Commitment Plan: In May 2024, Brad launched the Cabell Commitment Plan, expanding on his high school tour initiative. The Cabell Commitment Plan offers enhanced financial support to students from Cabell County, making higher education more attainable for local families. Brad also visited additional schools across the region to celebrate incoming Marshall students while highlighting the opportunities available through the university, inspiring many to embrace the thought of pursuing a higher education.
- Marshall For All, Marshall Forever: Co-founded by Brad in 2022, the university’s transformative Marshall For All, Marshall Forever campaign, which allows students to attend Marshall University debt-free, surpassed its fundraising goals in 2024. By securing additional scholarships, faculty support, and resources to enhance the program, more first-year undergraduate students at each of Marshall’s campuses will be eligible to participate in earning their degrees without student loans.
- Brad D. Smith Business Incubator: In 2024, the Brad D. Smith Student Incubator welcomed a new cohort of students, promoting innovation and entrepreneurship among young minds. Students participating in the incubator are able to test, adapt, and validate their business ideas in the market. Not only does this encourage creativity and problem-solving, but it also fosters the development of small businesses that drive local economic growth, create jobs, and contribute to a more vibrant and resilient economy in West Virginia that extends beyond its borders.
- Universities United 2024: A special highlight of 2024 was the “Universities United” event, co-hosted by Brad and West Virginia University President Gordon Gee. Held in Washington, D.C., the event celebrated the power of collaboration between institutions to drive economic and educational progress in West Virginia. Discussions included expanding programs like First Ascent, a resource for new Marshall University and West Virginia University graduates, and the new Ascend WV Homebuyer Program, which helps remote workers transition into permanent residents, reinforcing community roots and connection.
Under Brad’s leadership, Marshall University achieved remarkable growth in 2024. Enrollment initiatives such as automatic acceptance and extended regional tuition, as well as Marshall University’s expansion into new properties, underscore his mission to empower students and open new doors through education. This dedication continues to advance Marshall as a leader in access, innovation, and student success.
Expanding Opportunities Across Appalachia
In addition to the initiatives he supports at the university, Brad and his wife, Alys, have also contributed to the expansion of instrumental programs via their non-profit organization, the Wing 2 Wing Foundation. These programs continue to promote growth and generate new opportunities for underserved communities:
- First Ascent: 2024 marked the second year of First Ascent, a program designed to support young professionals navigating remote and hybrid work while building connections in West Virginia. The initiative has been pivotal in addressing the state’s graduate retention challenges.
- Women Warriors Summit: The 2024 Women Warriors Summit, led by Alys and sponsored by Wing 2 Wing, saw even greater participation. Over 750 attendees gathered to ignite inspiration and share experiences to create purposeful, fulfilling lives.
- Outdoor Economic Development Collaborative (OEDC): Through its ongoing partnership with Ascend WV, the OEDC attracted more remote workers to the Mountain State, revitalizing communities and boosting the local economy.
Turning the Page to a Promising 2025
In October 2024, Brad was elected to the Board of Directors of JPMorgan Chase, starting his role on January 21, 2025. He also serves on Amazon’s Board (Audit Committee), the DignifiHealth Advisory Board, Humana Inc.’s Board, and as Co-Chair of the Southern Regional Education Board (SREB) Commission on Artificial Intelligence and Education. These positions, as well as his many philanthropic endeavors, underscore his resolve to foster potential and strengthen communities across the Mountain State.
As 2025 begins to take its shape, Brad remains focused on deepening his commitment to the causes he holds dear, creating opportunities, championing collaboration, and inspiring others to aim high.
Stay up to date on Brad’s work at Marshall University, the Wing 2 Wing Foundation, the OEDC, and more by following him on LinkedIn, Substack, and Facebook.