Fairmont State University Board of Governors held April Meeting: focused on economic development, community engagement, and academic excellence

 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.

“I believe that a strong public university is inseparable from its surrounding community,” said President Mike Davis. “Fairmont State is committed to building bridges between the university and the community through academic partnerships, workforce development initiatives, and athletic and cultural events. This is more than just outreach to our neighbors—it’s genuine collaboration to make North Central West Virginia more united, prosperous, and optimistic about our future.” 

The Board recognizes these are lofty aspirations that will require resources to succeed. They have therefore directed the administration to draft a plan to re-invest more than $12M over the next three years.  

“Unlike many of our peers across the country, Fairmont State University is in a great financial position,” said Board of Governors Chair Jennifer Kinty. “It is now time to begin re-investing some of our funds to support innovative ideas, partnerships, and opportunities. The goal is to generate revenue, grow enrollment, and positively impact our region.”  

Interim Vice President of Finance and Administration John Nisbet presented the Board a three-year spending proposal with a focus on enrollment and retention, athletics, academic operations, and infrastructure. The Board’s feedback will permit Nisbet to refine the proposal prior to June’s meetings of the Finance Committee and full Board. 

Turning to academic affairs, the Board evaluated eight academic program reviews. These included bachelor’s degrees in Community Health Education, Criminal Justice, English, Studio Art, Civil Engineering, Electronics Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and both the associate and bachelor’s in Nursing.  

According to Interim Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs Susan Ross, “The Higher Education Policy Commission’s Title 133, Series 10, ‘Policy Regarding Program Review’ requires each Governing Board to review all programs offered at the institution at least once every five years. The reviews address the external demand for the program, quality of outcomes, financial health, and consistency with mission of the programs.” After discussing the results, the Board approved the reviews. Next, faculty will use the findings to further strengthen their programs. 

The Board will hold its next regular meeting on June 25 at 9 a.m. in the Falcon Center Board Room and online via TEAMS. Details can be found at https://www.fairmontstate.edu/about/board-governors/meetings/default.aspx.