Fairmont State Showcases Continued Institutional Growth at February Board Meeting and Strong Fundraising Momentum on Day of Giving

The month of February ended with growth and momentum for Fairmont State University. The University’s Board of Governors met on February 25 and received updates from campus leadership on key initiatives, enrollment progress, academic planning, and community engagement events. The University then pivoted to one of its most spirited community events of the year, the annual Day of Giving, during which the University surpassed its $800,000 fundraising goal.  

President Mike Davis opened the Board meeting by highlighting the University’s successful Day at the Capitol, which was attended by more than 220 students, faculty, and staff.  

“Fairmont State’s Day at the Capitol is about more than just sharing our successes—it’s about demonstrating how deeply we are invested in West Virginia’s future,” said President Davis. “We are champions for West Virginia’s progress. Our work doesn’t stop at the classroom door. It reaches every corner of the state, fueling economic growth, preparing career-ready graduates, and strengthening communities. From groundbreaking academic programs to hands-on partnerships that change lives, Fairmont State is shaping a future where all West Virginians thrive.”  

Davis also reported that Senator Shelley Moore Capito’s office confirmed nearly $2.3 million in Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS) for Fiscal Year 2026 to support campus safety and the Aviation program. He added that the University also recently hosted staff from Senator Jim Justice’s office to discuss CDS priorities for Fiscal Year 2027. 

Davis then noted continued progress in creating high-impact learning experiences. This includes the upcoming opening of West Virginia’s first student-run experiential learning café, Saxby’s, on the Fairmont State campus. He also recognized faculty and staff who participated in the inaugural West Virginia Outdoor Economy Summit as part of ongoing efforts to support the state’s growing outdoor recreation sector. Following discussions with West Virginia Tourism Secretary Chelsea Ruby, who noted the lack of qualified applicants for tourism jobs, Fairmont State expanded its Outdoor Leadership minor into a major. Davis added that Secretary Ruby will serve as the final speaker in this semester’s Presidential Speaker Series on April 28 at 6 p.m. in the Conference Rooms on the third floor of the Falcon Center. 

“Fairmont State continues to gain momentum across the entire campus,” said Board Chair Jason Pitzatella. “The updates shared today reflect a University that is planning strategically and executing boldly—strengthening academic opportunities, expanding high‑impact learning experiences, and deepening engagement with communities across West Virginia. The Board is proud of the progress being made and grateful for the dedication of our students, faculty, and staff who make this possible.” 

The Board then received an update on employment outcomes for December 2025 graduates, with 61 percent employed, 19 percent pursuing further education, and 1 percent entering the military. Overall, 81 percent of graduates were designated “career ready.” Davis also highlighted the February 24 launch of the Groundbreaking Vision publication outlining Fairmont State’s accomplishments during his first two years as President, and the University’s vision for the future.  

Vice President of Student Affairs Janna Bredeson provided an update focused on strengthening student support, onboarding, and operationalizing strategic initiatives that contribute to student success. She highlighted new efforts supporting first-generation students and shared that the All-Majors Career Fair will be held on March 25, drawing employers from across the region.  

Bredeson also shared that auxiliary services continue to expand student employment opportunities through the Soar Store, Saxby’s, Camps and Conferences, Printing Services, and other campus operations. Finally, she noted that staff working in health, safety, and well-being are increasingly using data, surveys, and student feedback to identify and reduce barriers that may disrupt academic progress, ensuring a more sustainable, student-centered campus environment.  

Vice President of Enrollment Management George Wolf reported that Spring 2026 enrollment headcount increased by 3.1 percent from the previous year. Within the overall headcount, undergraduate enrollment for the spring term increased by 3.7 percent, while graduate student enrollment increased by 21 percent for Fiscal Year 2026. Outstanding student account balances have decreased by nearly 79 percent due to targeted communication efforts, financial aid support, and proactive outreach around FAFSA completion and payment options.  

Provost Allen Bedford then provided an update on the development of the Academic Implementation Plan. This will focus on strengthening programs of study, supporting student success, enhancing professional development and work conditions for faculty and staff, fostering cultural enrichment on campus, and expanding the University’s role in the region. Bedford emphasized ongoing efforts to align academic offerings with workforce needs, create a consistent and equitable student experience across all modalities, and further integrate civic engagement and community partnerships into teaching, learning, and scholarship. 

The next full Board meeting is scheduled for April 22 at 9 a.m. in the Falcon Center Board Room. 

Breaking Records

Following the February 25 Board meeting, Fairmont State University launched directly into one of its most spirited community events of the year—the University’s annual Day of Giving on February 26. Building on the momentum previewed during the Board meeting, the 24‑hour fundraising celebration brought together students, alumni, employees, and supporters from across the nation to advance the mission and future of Fairmont State. 

“Day of Giving is more than just a fundraising event—it’s a celebration of what Fairmont State stands for and what we can accomplish together,” said Board Chair Pitzatella. “Over the past two years, we’ve worked hard to build a strong foundation for the future, and this year’s Day of Giving showcased that vision in practice. Every gift, every participant, and every engagement helps fuel opportunities for our students and strengthens the transformational role this University plays in the region.” 

This year’s Day of Giving showcased unprecedented participation both on campus and online. Nearly every corner of the University participated in the day’s activities, from student organizations and academic colleges to athletic teams and alumni. Things took off right at midnight with a special kick-off message from President Davis and updates throughout the night.  

The morning began with Good Morning Fairmont, a talk show featuring campus leaders, staff, students, campus news, gameshow competitions, and updates on giving challenges. Throughout the afternoon, the Falcon Center transformed for the Festival of Giving, where students, faculty, staff, and community took part in games, raffles, a silent auction, and live interviews with President Davis and cohosts. 

A special Day of Giving Happy Hour invited employees to make their gifts and connect with colleagues, while the Performing Arts Showcase Hour highlighted the talent and creativity of Fairmont State’s fine arts community. In the evening, the Community Carnival welcomed local residents for an evening of entertainment, and later, improv troupe The Fearless Fools participated in Whose Falcon Line is it Anyway. 

The celebration culminated with Mike at Night, a student-centered bash hosted by President Davis. Students had the chance to win major prizes—including a reserved parking space for a year, a dining plan for the fall semester, and free fall tuition—adding excitement and friendly competition to the final hours of giving. At midnight, the campus community gathered for a champagne toast marking the conclusion of the event and celebrating a successful day. 

This year, the University surpassed its $800,000 goal by more than $80,000, reflecting strong support from donors across the state and beyond. 

“Day of Giving is a powerful reminder of what makes Fairmont State so special—our people. Every gift, whether large or small, represents someone who believes in our students and the future we are building together,” said Davis. “I am deeply grateful for the donors, volunteers, and community members who lifted us beyond our goal and demonstrated once again that Falcon spirit is second to none. Your generosity directly fuels scholarships, enhances opportunities, and propels Fairmont State forward.” 

The success of this year’s Day of Giving reflects the deep commitment and pride shared by the entire Fairmont State University community. Through the collective efforts of students, alumni, employees, and friends, the University not only exceeded its goal but also strengthened the spirit of unity that defines what it means to be a Falcon. The momentum built during this extraordinary day will continue to carry the institution forward, inspiring even greater achievements in the years to come.