New Marshall President Gilbert takes up position Monday

HUNTINGTON, W.Va. — New Marshall University President Dr. Jerome Gilbert officially begins his new post Monday.

Gilbert was a guest last week at Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin’s State of the State Address, which he said he was honored to be a part.

New Marshall University President Dr. Jerome "Jerry" Gilbert
New Marshall University President Dr. Jerome “Jerry” Gilbert

“This is just a great experience to be here and listen to the governor, and to really participate in the legislative process in this way as an observer is really exciting,” Gilbert said.

Gilbert takes over for late President Stephen Kopp, who died suddenly in Dec. 2014, and interim President Gary White.

Gilbert received an introduction from 3rd District Congressman Evan Jenkins on the House floor last week.

“I have no doubt Dr. Gilbert will carry on the legacy of the beloved late Dr. Stephen J. Kopp, whose vision for Marshall University has helped transform it into the tremendous institution that it is today,” Jenkins said.

Gilbert comes from Mississippi State University, where he served as both provost and executive vice president. He was encouraged by what Tomblin said in his State of the State about education.

“I think the governor really made a commitment to education, and really talked about collaboration between our instructions,” Gilbert said. “That’s going to be the hope of my presidency, collaborating with WVU and all the institutions in the state.”

Jenkins, who hails from Huntington, was confident that Gilbert and his family would be happy at Marshall and in Huntington.

“The Huntington community is one that they will be proud to call home,” he said. “As the university continues to capitalize on recent successes, I look forward to working with Dr. Gilbert during this exciting new chapter for Marshall University.”

Gilbert has a busy schedule for his first week on the job, including a ceremony at 5:30 p.m. Monday at the Joan C. Edwards Performing Arts Center.

On Tuesday, Gilbert will attend Higher Education Day as part of the legislative session in Charleston.

The annual event is sponsored by the West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission. Gilbert will visit legislators and participate in the day’s activities with the state’s other public university and college presidents.





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