Marshall University Athletics
Stephen & Amy New Make $1 Million Gift to Marshall Athletics
7/2/2026 10:00:00 AM | Football, General
New Family joins with State Electric Supply, Dixon Electric to bolster Lights Project for Joan C. Edwards Stadium
2026 Marshall Football Tickets | Donate To The Big Green
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Marshall Vice President and Director of Athletics Gerald J. Harrison announced that Stephen and Amy New have made a $1 million pledge to Marshall Athletics.
"Amy and I are happy to be able to support the university that means so much to each of us," Stephen New said. "Our mothers went back to school as non-traditional students and we've had many family members who are Sons and Daughters of Marshall. We will continue to support – and encourage others to, as well – Marshall's mission to help Huntington, the state and our region. Go Herd!"
This generous gift from Stephen and Amy New, combined with the efforts of State Electric Supply and Dixon Electric, helped finalize the installation of new stadium lighting in Joan C. Edwards Stadium, which enhances an elite experience for all who experience games at 'The Joan.'
"The installation of our new state-of-the-art lighting system at The Joan is another significant investment in the future of Marshall Football and the game-day experience for our fans, student-athletes, and community," Harrison said. "We are incredibly grateful to Stephen New, State Electric and Dixon Electric for their tremendous partnership and support in helping us continue to 'Take Care of Our House.' Their commitment to Marshall Athletics has helped bring this exciting project to life."
Over the last several weeks, work has been ongoing to get the stadium lights installed at Joan C. Edwards Stadium through the continuation of longstanding partnerships with State Electric Supply and Dixon Electric – both of whom have worked diligently to ensure the project's completion by the start of the 2026 football season.
State Electric Supply was integral in getting the project underway in a timely fashion by procuring all lighting and physical parts necessary to complete the installation.
"We are proud to be part of the new stadium lighting project and to support Marshall Athletics in many ways," said John Spoor, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of State Electric Supply. "The excitement they create, the talent they develop and the care for their student-athletes aligns with our State Electric Supply core values of 'Integrity, Teamwork and Stewardship.' We are proud to be a part of their success."
Following the procurement of those parts, the team at Dixon Electric has been hard at work with installation of the new lighting system – a process that is expected to finalize in the coming weeks, which ensures that fans will have a premium experience for the Herd's home slate and other events at Joan C. Edwards Stadium in 2026 and beyond.
"Dixon Electrical Systems is proud to support Marshall University Athletics as both a trusted contractor and community partner," said Matt Simms, Vice President of Dixon Electric. "From the recent Joan C. Edwards lighting upgrades to our continued investment in baseball, football and all other athletic programs, we are committed to the success of the Thundering Herd."
The generous donation by Stephen and Amy New gives Marshall Athletics great momentum as the 2026-27 athletic year gets underway at the start of July.
To commemorate their generosity, the Working Press level at Joan C. Edwards Stadium has been named the New Family Level.
Joan C. Edwards Stadium's new lights will be unveiled at the 2026 home opener against Middle Tennessee on Sept. 12.
"We can't wait to kick off the 2026 season and welcome Herd Nation back to The Joan for our home opener under the new lights this fall," Harrison said. "It's going to be a special night in Huntington, and we look forward to creating an unforgettable atmosphere for our fans."
To purchase tickets for the 2026 Marshall Football season, click HERE.
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