Fairmont State University Announces 2026 Homecoming Festivities and Alumni Award Recipients
Fairmont State University will celebrate Homecoming 2026 from September 28 through October 4. This year's theme, "Meet Me on the Hill," reflects the University's rich traditions and the special experience of returning to the campus that generations of Falcons have called home.
Whether they are alumni, students, employees, or community members, Homecoming attendees will have the opportunity to reconnect with friends, former classmates, colleagues, and the Fairmont State community while celebrating Falcon pride through a week of festivities and special events.
"Homecoming is a cherished tradition that brings generations of Falcons together to celebrate the people, experiences, and values that make Fairmont State so special," said University President Mike Davis. "This year's theme, 'Meet Me on the Hill,' captures the sense of belonging and connection that so many members of our Falcon family feel when they return to campus. It is a reminder that no matter where life takes us, Fairmont State will always be a place we can call home. We look forward to welcoming alumni, students, employees, and community members to campus for a week of celebration, memories, and renewed connections."
This year's Homecoming Parade Marshals are Robert and Shannan Colaianni Tinnell, longtime supporters of Fairmont State and influential members of the Marion County community.
Robert Tinnell is a writer, director, producer, and co-founder of the West Virginia-based production company Allegheny Image Factory with his brother, Jeffrey. His work spans film, television, and publishing. Most recently, he served as a producer on River, a horror film scheduled for release in 2027 by Universal/Blumhouse that was filmed in Marion and Monongalia counties.
Tinnell's best-known work is the Eisner Award-nominated graphic novel Feast of the Seven Fishes, a semi-autobiographical story inspired by his upbringing in Fairmont. He later directed the critically acclaimed feature film adaptation starring Madison Iseman, Skyler Gisondo, Joe Pantoliano, Andrew Schulz, and Paul Ben-Victor. His additional comic book works include the Rondo Award-winning The Black Forest, The Living and the Dead, and Flesh and Blood, the first comic book reviewed by USA Today.
His extensive career also includes producing Paula Abdul's MTV Award-winning music video "Straight Up," directing Ryan Gosling's first feature film, Frankenstein and Me, alongside Burt Reynolds, and creating award-winning commercial and image campaigns for a diverse range of clients.
"We're so pleased to recognize Bob and Shannon as this year's Homecoming Parade Marshals," said Amy Snively, director of alumni relations. "They have generously given their time and support to Fairmont State and our community for many years, and we're grateful for all they do. It's especially meaningful to celebrate them during Homecoming and include them in this year's festivities."
In 2006, Robert and Shannon partnered with Main Street Fairmont and community volunteers to launch the first Feast of the Seven Fishes Festival in Fairmont. This year marks the festival's 20th anniversary, making it an especially meaningful time to recognize its founders and their contributions to the region.
2026 Alumni Award Winners
In addition to recognizing the Tinnells, Fairmont State will honor a distinguished group of alumni at the 2026 Alumni Awards Luncheon on October 2. The annual event celebrates outstanding alumni for their professional achievements, service, and contributions to their communities and alma mater.
"I'm honored to welcome back this distinguished group of Alumni Award recipients," said Fairmont State Alumni Association President Chris Goodwin. "These alumni truly embody what it means to be a Fairmont State Falcon through their personal and professional accomplishments, as well as their enduring dedication and commitment to Fairmont State long after their days as students."
Outstanding Alumni
- Marci Cochran
- Cathie Devito Metheny
- Jacqueline Iquinto Reed
- Diana Pishner Walker
- Mel Coleman Jr.
- Dr. Michael Edmond
- Gary Fazalare
- Tony Merendino
Alumni of Achievement
- Jessica Chenoweth
- Crystal Laughlin Mersh
- Susan Riffle
- Vanessa Sword
- Vincent Cava
- Allen Retton
- David Ricer
- Chuck Smith
Outstanding Young Alumni
- Emily Gersper Mouser
- Alexander Petry
2026 Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient
- Joseph "Bud" Ford
Alumni award recipients will be recognized during the Alumni Awards Luncheon at noon Friday, October 2, in Falcon Center Gym 1. They will also be featured in the Homecoming Parade and recognized prior to the Homecoming football game against Glenville State University at 2 p.m. Saturday, October 3, at Duvall-Rosier Field.
Homecoming Schedule Highlights
Thursday, October 1
Emeritus Luncheon
Honoring the Class of 1976
Noon | Falcon Center Conference Rooms
Alumni Social
4 p.m. | The Joe
323½ Adams St., Fairmont, WV
Homecoming Parade
6 p.m. | Historic Downtown Fairmont
Thursday Night Lights
7 p.m. | Tennis Courts Gravel Lot, Fairmont State campus
Friday, October 2
Alumni Awards Luncheon
Noon | Falcon Center Gym 1
Athletics Hall of Fame Dinner
5 p.m. | Falcon Center Gym 1
Saturday, October 3
Alumni Tailgate
11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. | Duvall-Rosier Field White Lot
Homecoming Football Game
Fairmont State vs. Glenville State University
2 p.m. | Duvall-Rosier Field
Purchase tickets in advance here.
For a complete list of Homecoming events and registration information, view the full 2026 Homecoming schedule here.
