HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Marshall University has teamed up with Intuit, a global software company, to create a new prosperity hub aimed at boosting the local community. The announcement took place at the Brad D. Smith Center for Innovation and Business, where officials expressed enthusiasm about the partnership’s potential.
President Brad Smith noted that this collaboration is expected to generate 250 jobs for the community, providing students and recent graduates with the chance to earn while they learn. The jobs will pay $18 an hour and offer year-long employment opportunities.
Smith emphasized the significance of keeping local talent in the area. “Many times, we’re left with a choice—do I go work somewhere on the coast or do I stay home and miss that opportunity?” he said. “That’s no longer a choice. You can work with world-class companies right here in Huntington.”
Dave Zasada, Intuit’s vice president of Education and Corporate Responsibility, highlighted a critical issue: financial stress is a significant reason why students drop out of college. Many leave with debt but no degree. “This is a nationwide problem, and we’re committed to addressing it at Marshall,” he explained. By promoting financial literacy, the partnership aims to help students manage their finances better.
Huntington Mayor Patrick Farrell also spoke about the broader impact of the hub. He believes this initiative will lead to economic growth in the city. “As goes Marshall, so goes Huntington,” he said. More jobs and people in the area could increase property values and tax revenues, which would benefit local schools and infrastructure.
The prosperity hub will be ideally located between the new Cybersecurity Center and the College of Business. President Smith mentioned they hope to have several dozen students start jobs between now and April.
This collaboration reflects a growing trend in higher education, where universities partner with businesses to bridge the gap between education and employment. In a 2021 survey by the American Association of Colleges and Universities, over 90% of employers stated that they prefer graduates with real-world experience.
This partnership is not just about jobs; it’s about cultivating a sustainable future for Huntington and the surrounding Appalachian region. It’s a promising step towards creating economic opportunities for students and the community alike.
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