Fairmont State University invests in faculty and staff development to strengthen student success and boost retention
Fairmont State University strengthened its commitment to student success and retention by hosting nationally recognized Appreciative Advising leader Dr. Jennifer L. Bloom for a transformative professional development workshop. The event brought together faculty, staff, and student support professionals for an intensive session designed to sharpen advising and support strategies that empower students to thrive.
“The Appreciative Advising workshop equipped participants with a transferable skill set that strengthened student engagement, persistence, and achievement,” said Pamela Stephens, Assistant Provost for Advising and Retention Initiatives. “Open to all faculty and staff, the session underscored Fairmont State’s vision of being A Great Place to Learn, to Work, and to Call Home.”
Dr. Bloom, co-founder of the Appreciative Advising and Appreciative Education movements, currently serves as Associate Professor and Coordinator of the Higher Education Leadership Master’s Degree Program at Florida Atlantic University. With more than 300 presentations, six books, 31 articles, and a national reputation as a thought leader, Dr. Bloom is widely recognized for transforming how institutions connect with and support students.
Fairmont State first adopted Appreciative Advising a decade ago, following Dr. Bloom’s initial visit to campus. Since then, the philosophy has become a cornerstone of the University’s student success strategy.
Fairmont State projects an 8% increase in retention rates, a growth trend fueled in part by ongoing investments in training and student-centered practices like Appreciative Advising.
“Following Dr. Bloom’s initial visit ten years ago, Fairmont State officially adopted the Appreciative Advising philosophy to guide our advising practices,” said Stephens. “Dr. Bloom’s work continues to directly align with our efforts to empower student success, and we were thrilled to welcome her back to campus to introduce Appreciative Advising practices to members of our current faculty, staff, and administration.”
Fairmont State’s continued investment in Appreciative Advising reflects a deep institutional commitment to fostering a culture of care, connection, and student-centered success. By welcoming Dr. Bloom back to campus and engaging faculty and staff in transformative professional development, the University reaffirmed its dedication to empowering every student to thrive—reinforcing its vision of being A Great Place to Learn, to Work, and to Call Home.
