David Harris

Lifelong resident David Harris attended Douglass High School but graduated from Huntington High when Douglass closed during integration of the Cabell County School System. David continued his education at Marshall University where he earned a bachelor’s and master’s degree in history.

He served in the United States Army as a Supply Officer and Company Commander for over four years. David’s highest rank was Captain. During his enlistment he received various honors and awards. Upon completion of his tour of duty he received an Honorable Discharge.

David worked for Inco Alloys for 21 years as an Employment and Compliance Manager; he was Co-owner and Metal Supplies Manager for seven years at Basic Supply. He taught as an Adjunct Professor of History at Marshall University for over 20 years.  At Marshall’s Community and Technical College, he taught business administration.  He served as Marshall University’s Director of Equity for 15 years until his retirement.

He has been actively involved in the community as Chairman of The Board of Directors, Southwestern Community Action Council and member of the Huntington Human Relations Commission. He is a member and Chair of The Advisory Board of Directors at The A. D. Lewis Community Center. Mr. Harris serves as a member of the Board of Directors, volunteer and coach of The Huntington Little League. He is a member and Chair of The Carter G. Woodson Memorial Foundation; member and Vice President of The Huntington Area Goodwill, Inc.; a member of the Huntington Branch of the NAACP; and member and Secretary of The Board of Directors of Cabell Huntington Hospital.

David has received numerous recognitions and awards which include “Mover and Shaker” Community Recognition from The Huntington Herald Dispatch; The Veteran Administration Community Service Award; Marshall University Outstanding Black Alumni Award; recognized as a History Hero, by The State of West Virginia; and acknowledged by The City of Huntington with a street renamed, “David Harris Way.” In his honor.

He is best known as Mr. Baseball.  From March to October, you will find him coaching, preparing fields for play and encouraging young people to try and get involved in sports.