Fairmont State University Faculty Member Receives WVAGP Lifetime Achievement Award

Fairmont State University Geography faculty member, Dr. Frank LaFone, has been honored with the West Virginia Association of Geospatial Professionals (WVAGP) Lifetime Achievement Award, recognizing his outstanding career-long contributions to the advancement of geographic information systems (GIS) and geospatial technology throughout West Virginia. 

Over the course of more than two decades, LaFone has played a pivotal role in advancing the geospatial profession in West Virginia. He was a founding member and key architect of the West Virginia Association of Geospatial Professionals, helping establish and grow the organization into a leading advocate for GIS professionals across the state.  

Among his many accomplishments, LaFone earned his Geographic Information Systems Professional (GISP) certification early in the program’s history, served multiple terms on the WVAGP Board of Directors, including as president and vice president, and has been a tireless advocate for increasing public awareness and understanding of geospatial technology. He also helped found VerySpatial, one of the longest-running geography and geospatial podcasts, contributing to professional education and engagement on a national and international scale. 

The award was presented at WV GEOCON, the state’s annual geospatial conference, where WVAGP recognizes individuals whose exceptional service, leadership, and innovation have significantly advanced GIS applications, education, and community impact across West Virginia.  

LaFone was nominated by members of WVAGP, with the nomination approved by the WVAGP Board of Directors, WVAGP Board President Meryl Friedrich, and Taryn Moser, West Virginia State GIS Coordinator at the West Virginia Geological and Economic Survey. The Lifetime Achievement Award is presented by the West Virginia State GIS Coordinator each year.  

The WVAGP Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes individuals whose dedication, leadership, and service have helped shape the future of geospatial technology in West Virginia. Today, as a faculty member at Fairmont State University, LaFone continues to champion GIS education by connecting students with meaningful opportunities to apply geospatial technologies to address community needs throughout West Virginia. 

“You always work hard to do your best for your community, your state, your country, and your profession as good work is its own reward,” LaFone said. “However, it is always humbling and a privilege when your peers recognize your work and seek to celebrate you for it.”  

 Through his advocacy, professional service, educational leadership, and commitment to mentoring the next generation of GIS professionals, LaFone has left a lasting mark on the geospatial community and helped strengthen the role of GIS in addressing challenges and opportunities across the Mountain State.