Marshall University Athletics
‘Alys Smith Players Lounge’ Unveiled For Marshall Softball
3/27/2025 1:40:00 PM | Softball
Marshall University’s First Lady provides enhanced space for student-athletes
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Marshall Athletics is proud to announce the unveiling of the 'Alys Smith Players Lounge' on March 19 within the Softball Locker Room at Dot Hicks Field.
This newly-renovated space was made possible by the generosity and vision of Alys Smith, the First Lady of Marshall University, who continued her visionary quest to enhance the experience and empowerment of women at Marshall.
"Marshall's women's softball players deserve a space that reflects their dedication and talent," Smith said. "The Alys Smith Players Lounge is a commitment to ensuring they have the resources and support to compete at the highest level. I hope this space empowers them to excel on and off the field, knowing they are valued and supported."
The space was unveiled prior to the Herd's 3-2 win over Ohio University at Dot Hicks Field on March 19.
"Thanks to a generous contribution by Alys Smith, we were able to transform the space and create a first-class environment for our softball players," said Alicia Parker, Associate Director of Development for Endowments and Major Gifts.
Since the unveiling, Marshall has won four straight contests and continued a stretch in which the team has won 13 of 15 games.
Marshall's success on the field is a direct reflection of the efforts and contributions made off the field from those such as Smith, who have ensured that Marshall competes at a championship level in the Sun Belt Conference.
This gesture is just the continuation of an incredible body of work from Alys Smith, whose resume of philanthropy is distinguished.
Smith has established herself as a leader in change within the state of West Virginia through her roles as the co-founder of the Wing 2 Wing Foundation, Ascend WV and the Brad and Alys Smith Outdoor Economic Development Collaborative.
Smith's vision has always been to support women's equality and empowerment to those in Appalachia and beyond, which has also been showcased through her creation of the Women Warriors Summit in 2023 and her continuous work for the last two decades as an advocate for women through several organizations in which she serves as a mentor and leader.
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