Former DEMA VP Marshall awarded President’s Medal

IU President Michael McRobbie presented the President’s Medal for Excellence to former Vice President of Diversity, Equity and Multicultural Affairs Edwin Marshall at a farewell reception for Marshall Sept. 12.

According to a press release from the IU Newsroom, the President’s Medal is the highest honor an IU president can bestow.

It recognizes distinction in public service and service to IU.

Marshall retired recently after 40 years at IU. He was a professor of optometry in addition to his six years as vice president of DEMA.

Marshall launched and led the President’s University Diversity Initiative, according to the release.

He worked with the University provost to increase the amount of scholarship funds available through the Hudson and Holland Scholars program.

In 2003, Marshall became the first optometrist elected chair of the executive board of the American Public Health Association.
 
He’s also a founding member of the Vision Care Section for the APHA, according to the release.

“Throughout his entire career, Ed has always reinforced inclusion and respect,” McRobbie said at the reception.

“He has been a champion of equity for all students at Indiana University.”

Marshall has served as chair of the IU Public Health Coordinating Council since 2009.
In 2002, he was the first optometrist elected president of the Indiana Public Health
Association.

According to the press release, Marshall was instrumental in Indiana University launching the Fairbanks School of Public Health at IUPUI and the School of Public Health on the  Bloomington campus.

Marshall has four degrees from IU, including Doctor of Optometry and Master of
Science.

— Tori Fater