Morrisey Appoints Three Alumni to Fairmont State University Board of Governors

Governor Patrick Morrisey has appointed three alumni with deep connections to Fairmont State to serve on the University’s Board of Governors. Timothy “Craig” Jennings and Jonathan Board were newly appointed to the Board, while Jason Henderson, a current member, has been reappointed. 

Board of Governors Chair Jason Pizatella thanked outgoing members for their service and welcomed the incoming appointees. 

“On behalf of the entire Board of Governors, I want to thank David Goldberg and Jennifer Kinty for their service and dedication to Fairmont State University,” Pizatella said. “Having both served a term as Chairman of the Board, their leadership and commitment has made a lasting impact on the campus. At the same time, I am thrilled to welcome Jonathan Board and Craig Jennings to the Board, as well as for Jason Henderson’s continued service. Each brings a deep personal connection to the institution and a strong desire to give back to the University that helped shape them.” 

All three alumni appointees' professional paths and personal lives are closely tied to their experiences at the university. Together, they bring expertise in finance, infrastructure, public policy, law, and governance, along with a shared commitment to Fairmont State and West Virginia. 

“Jason, Craig, and Jonathan are Falcons through and through,” said President Mike Davis. “Their connection to Fairmont State did not end at graduation. They have remained engaged with the University, our people, and our mission, investing their time, talent, and leadership back into the institution that helped shape who they are today. All three understand Fairmont State’s promise because they lived it as students, and they continue to live it as alumni, advocates, and partners. I am confident they will bring both their professional expertise to the Board of Governors, as well as a genuine love for this University and a strong commitment to its future.” 

Henderson, a Bridgeport, West Virginia native, earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Fairmont State in 2007. He has credited the University’s support following a serious accident with helping him complete his degree. He later earned a Master of Business Administration from West Virginia University and is the principal owner of Energy Resource Group LLC. 

Newly appointed member Jennings is a Fellowsville, West Virginia native who graduated from Fairmont State in 2003 with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering technology. Jennings served as a Preston County commissioner for 12 years and has held leadership roles in business and construction. His ties to the University extend beyond academics, into his personal life: He and his wife of 20 years, Jessica, met while they were students at Fairmont State. He also received Fairmont State’s Outstanding Young Alumni Award in 2015 and, until this appointment, served as Chair of the Fairmont State Athletic Association. 

Board, a Four States, West Virginia native and newly appointed member of the Board of Governors, earned his undergraduate degree from Fairmont State University in 2004 before earning his law degree from West Virginia University. His career has included advising state and federal agencies on health governance and technology issues, executive leadership roles with Mon Health and Vandalia Health, and serving as CEO of Axios International. Board now serves as executive director of the West Virginia First Foundation. He remains actively connected to his alma mater and delivered the keynote address at Fairmont State’s December 2024 Commencement. During his remarks, he reflected on navigating challenges and credited Fairmont State for helping him succeed. 

“It is well established, Fairmont State University graduates come from hearty stock, and unlike much of the world, you understand that the success you enjoy now is directly due to the work and sacrifices of those who have led by lifting you up. Many of those folks are in this room today. Truly, we stand on the shoulders of giants,” Board said. “Fairmont State University changed the trajectory of my life, just as I am sure it has yours. Don't fight against this trajectory, embrace it, you've earned it. And we, the previous generation, may all rest a little easier knowing that our future is in your capable hands.” 

When announcing the appointments, Governor Patrick Morrisey emphasized the role the three alumni will play in advancing Fairmont State’s mission as both an educational and economic engine for West Virginia. 

“Fairmont State University is a cornerstone of education and economic growth in North Central West Virginia, and these three individuals represent the very best of what this institution produces,” said Morrisey. “Jason, Craig, and Jonathan are accomplished professionals in their respective fields. I am confident their leadership will ensure that Fairmont State continues to provide world-class opportunities for its students and the community.” 

The next meeting of the Fairmont State University Board of Governors is scheduled for Thursday, April 23, 2026, at 9 a.m. in the Falcon Center Boardroom.