Fairmont State University continues its upward trajectory, welcoming its largest orientation group in years on May 10. Nearly 200 new and returning students arrived on campus, signaling a strong start to the academic year and underscoring the university’s growing momentum in enrollment and student success.
As Fairmont State University prepares for Commencement on May 17, the Office of the Provost and Faculty Senate took some time to honor its faculty at an awards and recognition lunch held in Colebank Gym. During the ceremony, individuals were celebrated for their years of service to the University and accomplishments such as promotions and tenure. The Faculty Senate also presented special awards.
Fairmont State University welcomed internationally acclaimed illusionist and escape artist Matt Johnson as the final guest for the spring 2025 installment of the Presidential Speaker Series, Appalachian Resilience.
The Fairmont State University Board of Governors voted unanimously today, Tuesday, May 13, 2025, to allow the five-year extension of President Mike Davis’s contract to proceed.
The April meeting of the Fairmont State University Board of Governors featured an update on plans for a $12M re-investment as the institution continues answering the state’s call to create economic development opportunities for West Virginia. The Board also approved multiple academic program reviews and heard updates from President Mike Davis on ways the University is working to bring the community and the campus closer together.
Eight forensic science students from Fairmont State University recently attended the 2025 American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS) Annual Conference. This premier event draws leading forensic professionals, researchers, and students from across the nation. The conference, held earlier this year, provided an invaluable platform for students to present their work, engage with experts, and explore diverse career pathways within the field of forensic science.
Fairmont State University’s premier flight program is soaring to new heights with the addition of two new aircraft, increasing training opportunities for students and expanding enrollment capacity. The latest additions include a Cessna 172S G1000 and a Schweizer 300 helicopter, further solidifying Fairmont State’s position as the leading Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 141 flight program in the state. This designation means the program is characterized by structured curriculum, qualified instructors, and is overseen by the Federal Aviation Administration, to ensure compliance with all federal requirements.
After a highly competitive national search that attracted more than 70 applications, President Michael Davis has selected Dr. Allen J. Bedford as Fairmont State University’s next Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs (VPAA). The search process was assisted by a committee consisting of representatives from all five colleges, the Faculty Senate, Staff Council, Student Government, Provost’s Office, and Executive Leadership Team. Bedford will begin his new role on June 2.
The outstanding achievements of Fairmont State University faculty and students were recognized at the 2025 West Virginia Council of Teachers of Mathematics (WVCTM) Conference. Several distinguished members of the Fairmont State community were honored for their dedication, innovation, and contributions to mathematics education across West Virginia.
Fairmont State University proudly announces that the Frank and Jane Gabor West Virginia Folklife Center has been named Institution of the Year by the West Virginia Association of Museums (WVAM). This distinguished honor recognizes the Center’s outstanding contributions to preserving and celebrating Appalachian culture and heritage. The award also includes a $500 prize in support of the Center’s ongoing programming.
Fairmont State University proudly announces the induction of two esteemed faculty members from the College of Nursing, Bessie Fooks and Debra Harden, into the Sigma National Honor Society of Nursing. The prestigious ceremony took place on April 7 at Davis & Elkins College, marking a significant moment in celebrating nursing excellence.
Fairmont State University will proudly serve as host for the fourth annual Kickin' It for Katy 5K run and walk on Saturday, May 3, aimed at raising awareness for mental health and suicide prevention. All event proceeds will benefit the Kaitlynn Jade Memorial Scholarship, which supports students pursuing careers in mental health. Additionally, a portion of the funds raised will support local community initiatives focused on mental health, wellness, and healing.
The Feaster Center will come alive with celebration and Falcon pride on Saturday, May 17, as Fairmont State University hosts its Spring 2025 Commencement ceremonies.
Fairmont State University proudly announces that retired faculty member, Dennine LaRue, has been awarded the 2025 Distinguished Service Award—also known as “The Chair”—by the West Virginia Council of Teachers of Mathematics (WVCTM). Presented at the WVCTM annual meeting on March 14, this prestigious honor recognizes LaRue’s decades-long dedication and transformative impact on mathematics education across West Virginia.
Fairmont State University is excited to welcome internationally acclaimed illusionist and escape artist Matt Johnson as the featured guest of the Spring 2025 Presidential Speaker Series, Appalachian Resilience. With more than 30 years of experience, Johnson brings a powerful blend of spectacle and storytelling that reflects the very essence of resilience — the theme anchoring this semester’s series.
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