Gerald Harrison Named Marshall Athletic Director

Gerald Harrison has been approved as the 23rd Director of Athletics at Marshall University, succeeding Christian Spears after his contract was not renewed. Harrison brings seven years of experience as Athletic Director at Austin Peay, where he led the department to 13 conference championships, including three in football, achieved 16 consecutive semesters with a GPA of 3.0 or higher, and guided the school through conference transitions. He also established major partnerships, such as with the NHL’s Nashville Predators, and secured record financial gifts for Austin Peay. Marshall President Brad D. Smith highlighted Harrison’s championship track record, strategic innovation, and leadership qualities. Harrison expressed enthusiasm for joining the Marshall and Huntington communities and pledged collaboration with campus and community partners. He will be formally introduced at a press conference, marking the beginning of his leadership at Marshall.