Fairmont State University announces 2025-2026 Presidential Speaker Series
Fairmont State University has announced the lineup for its 2025–2026 Presidential Speaker Series. Since its start last fall, the Series has brought distinguished leaders to campus to address topics such as politics, economics, civics, the arts, and culture—sparking meaningful dialogue and fostering intellectual engagement throughout the Falcon community.
The 2025–2026 series will launch on October 2 with Dr. Charles “Chuck” L. Welch, President of the American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU). A longtime advocate for public higher education, Welch will discuss the critical role that regional universities play in supporting student achievement, driving workforce development, and strengthening communities—while offering insights into the changing landscape of higher education.
“Fairmont State is honored to welcome Dr. Chuck Welch and an outstanding lineup of speakers to campus this academic year,” said President Mike Davis. “The Presidential Speaker Series is more than just lectures—it is a catalyst for conversation, reflection, and action. By engaging with thought leaders like Chuck, our students and community gain new perspectives that prepare them to shape the future of West Virginia.”
All Presidential Speaker Series events are free and open to the public. For more information, visit https://www.fairmontstate.edu/about/president/speaker-series.aspx.
The Future of Regional Public Universities
Dr. Charles Welch
President, American Association of State Colleges and Universities
October 2, 2025 | 6 p.m. | Falcon Center Conference Rooms
Dr. Charles L. Welch, president of the AASCU, is a nationally recognized higher education leader and first-generation college graduate. He became AASCU’s seventh president in January 2024 after nearly 13 years as president of the Arkansas State University System, where he was later named president emeritus. Welch has also served as president or chancellor at multiple institutions and twice chaired the AASCU Board of Directors. In recognition of his leadership, the Arkansas State University System established the Charles L. Welch Presidential Scholars Program in his honor. He holds degrees from the University of Arkansas, The George Washington University, and the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. His talk, The Future of Regional Public Universities, will explore the essential role public institutions play in advancing student success, workforce development, and community growth.
Keeping Graduates in West Virginia
Morgan O’Brien
Chief Executive Officer, Hope Gas
November 13, 2025 | 6 p.m. | Falcon Center Conference Rooms
Morgan K. O’Brien, CEO of Hope Gas and Hope Utilities, is a Pittsburgh native whose blue-collar upbringing shaped his strong work ethic and deep respect for all people and professions. His leadership journey includes serving as CEO of Duquesne Light Company and Peoples Gas, where he championed employee voices and drove growth in employment, customer base, and investor value. O’Brien positioned both companies as vital community partners committed to economic development and quality of life improvements. A graduate of Robert Morris University, he remains civically engaged through board service with various organizations. He now brings his decades of experience to West Virginia, offering insights on workforce retention and economic development.
Civility and Dialogue Across Differences
Dr. Mike Lee
Professor and Director, Civility Initiative, College of Charleston (SC)
February 12, 2026 | 6 p.m. | Falcon Center Conference Rooms
Dr. Mike Lee, a nationally recognized expert in political communication, will speak on the challenges of restoring civil discourse in today’s polarized society. With a Ph.D. in Communication Studies from the University of Minnesota and degrees in Communication and Political Science from the University of Georgia, Lee’s award-winning research focuses on political branding, identity, and audience dynamics in American politics. He has authored multiple acclaimed books, including Creating Conservatism and We Are Not One People, and frequently lectures at universities nationwide. Since 2002, he has taught a wide range of courses on rhetoric, persuasion, media, and politics.
Square Dancing and Oral Histories in Appalachia
Annick Odom
Multi-instrumentalist, Composer, Folk Singer, and Storyteller
April 16, 2026 | 6 p.m. | Falcon Center Conference Rooms
Annick Odom, a Morgantown native and internationally acclaimed folk artist known for her unique fusion of Appalachian traditions with modern composition and storytelling. Through her performances, workshops, and community initiatives, Odom honors and preserves Appalachian cultural heritage while captivating audiences across the globe. She will also serve as the University’s 2025–2026 Artist-in-Residence at the Frank & Jane Gabor West Virginia Folklife Center. This role was established to enrich academic and arts programming, support faculty development, and offer meaningful cultural and intellectual contributions to the broader community.
