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 Steadfast Commitment to Accessible Education
As Marshall University’s president, Brad continued to focus on creating innovative pathways to higher education, ensuring that students can achieve their dreams without being hindered by financial barriers, leading to significant advancements 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, which offers enhanced financial support to students from Cabell County, making higher education more attainable for local families. Brad expanded his high school tour initiative, visiting schools across the region to celebrate incoming Marshall students while highlighting the opportunities available through the university.
- Marshall For All, Marshall Forever: Co-founded by Brad in 2022, the university’s transformative Marshall For All, Marshall Forever campaign surpassed its fundraising goals in 2024, securing additional scholarships, faculty support, and resources to enhance the campus experience.
- Brad D. Smith Business Incubator: In 2024, the student incubator welcomed a new cohort of students, fostering innovation and entrepreneurship among young minds.
- Universities United 2024: A 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 the expansion of programs like First Ascent and the new Ascend WV Homebuyer Program, which helps remote workers transition into permanent residents, reinforcing community roots.
Under Brad’s leadership, Marshall University experienced remarkable growth. Through enrollment initiatives such as auto-acceptance and expanded regional tuition, as well as Marshall University expanding into new properties, Brad’s enduring commitment to improving opportunities through education continues to ensure that Marshall leads in access, innovation, and student success.
Expanding Opportunities Across Appalachia
Through the Wing 2 Wing Foundation, Brad and Alys Smith continued to build programs that create 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, bringing together over 750 attendees to celebrate and empower women leaders.
- 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.
A Leader at Heart
In October 2024, Brad was elected to the Board of Directors of JPMorgan Chase, effective January 21, 2025. This role will allow him to contribute his extensive leadership experience to one of the world’s leading financial institutions.
2025 Looks Even Brighter
From fostering innovation at Marshall to empowering communities across Appalachia, Brad D. Smith’s 2024 has been a year of growth and gratitude. As he looks to 2025, Brad remains focused on deepening his commitment to the causes he holds dear, creating opportunities, championing collaboration, and inspiring others to dream big.
This year also marked Brad’s third year as president of Marshall, 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.”
In October 2024, Brad was also elected to the Board of Directors of JPMorgan Chase, effective January 21, 2025. This role will allow him to contribute his extensive leadership experience to one of the world’s leading financial institutions.
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.