Marshall College in 1946 was confronted with the same challenges all U.S. colleges and universities faced: the faculty, physical plant and curricula were woefully inadequate for the post-war influx of students. Marshall’s enrollment rose to record numbers.

Unlike many institutions, however, Marshall was blessed with a small group of alumni and friends, who saw the needs, had a vision for Marshall and were willing to lend their time, talents and resources to assure that those needs were met.

On January 3, 1947, five men signed the articles of incorporation that established The Marshall Foundation, Inc. The incorporators were:

Frank E. Hanshaw Sr.
D. Sterling Diddle
Walker Long
James D. Francis
N.W. “Jack” Yates

Hanshaw was the first Foundation president and served in that position until 1954. He remained actively involved with the Foundation for 40 years and was chairman of the Gifts, Memorials and Income Committee at the time of his death on May 1, 1987.

The other officers that first year were Long, vice president, and Yates, Secretary/treasurer. The first Foundation Board of Directors was comprised of

two Marshall administrators:

Fred R. Smith, college comptroller
Dr. Stewart H. Smith, acting Marshall President

three Alumni Association representatives:

Frank E. Hanshaw Sr.
C.H. “Jackie” Mckown
N.W. “Jack” Yates

three faculty members:

Dr. Florence H. Van Bibber
Dr. Conley H. Dillon
Dr. A. E. Harris

and three at-large members:

D. Sterling Diddle
James D. Francis
Walker Long

The leadership provided by the 1947 group laid the groundwork and was the inspiration for today’s Foundation whose members also dedicate their time, talents, and resources to assist Marshall in meeting the challenges of providing quality education.