John D. Marshall, a graduate of South Carolina State College (University) with a degree in Physical Education, is recognized as a pioneer in coaching and athletic administration. Marshall's coaching career spanned over forty years and included: Hillside High School, (Heath Spring, SC), Elizabeth City State College (University), Langston University, Livingstone College, Virginia State University, Virginia Union University, South Carolina State University, Johnson C. Smith University and Fayetteville State University.
In athletic administration, J.D. began his nine year stint as Athletic Director for Fayetteville State University in 1980. Marshall is responsible for hiring the first female women's basketball coach at Fayetteville State University and twice brought the Division II Basketball Regionals to the city of Fayetteville. As a member of the NCAA Division II Football Committee, Marshall established Alabama as the home of the Division II National Championship site. During his tenure on the committee, Marshall is noted to be the second African-American chairperson of this national committee.
Marshall has been inducted into the following Hall of Fames, Livingstone College, Virginia State University, Fayetteville State University and the National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics (NACDA).