Join Us for an Inspiring ‘Lunch with Leaders’: Featuring Marshall University President Brad Smith

WHEELING — Marshall University President Brad Smith is set to visit Wheeling and share insights on improving West Virginia’s future. He will be the guest speaker at the upcoming “Lunch With Leaders” event held by the Wheeling Area Chamber of Commerce on June 12.

This unique gathering will take place at Wheeling Park’s White Palace, starting with registration at 11 a.m. and lunch at 11:30 a.m. Instead of a traditional podium speech, Smith and his legal counsel, Tony Stroud, will engage in a dynamic one-on-one discussion, facilitated by Stroud. They aim to highlight the positive strides Marshall University is making to uplift the state.

Smith’s background is impressive. Before becoming the president of Marshall in 2022, he was a significant player in Silicon Valley. He served as the president and CEO of Intuit from 2008 to 2019 and then as executive chairman until he transitioned to education. His commitment to West Virginia is evident in several initiatives. He co-founded the Wing 2 Wing Foundation with his wife, Alys, focusing on enhancing educational access and providing mentorship. Their generous donations include $10 million for a scholarship fund for underserved students and $25 million for the Brad D. Smith Student Incubator at Marshall, which promotes entrepreneurship and innovation.

Smith’s efforts aren’t just focused on the university; they’re impacting the Northern Panhandle too. For instance, Marshall is collaborating with West Liberty University to offer a bachelor’s degree in aviation at Wheeling-Ohio County Airport. This partnership reflects Smith’s vision of practical education that meets local needs.

The “Lunch With Leaders” event also serves as the annual meeting for the Chamber, featuring a review of past achievements and future goals. Chamber President Kurt Zende emphasizes the event’s dual purpose: motivational dialogue and financial support for the community. Costs to attend are $60 for members and $75 for non-members. Special rates are available for students and veterans.

In a world where community connection and support are vital, events like this not only inspire but also strengthen the fabric of West Virginia. As Smith and Zende emphasize, bringing together local leaders allows for shared knowledge and collective growth.

To learn more about the event, you can visit the Wheeling Area Chamber of Commerce’s website [here](https://business.wheelingchamber.com/events/).

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