Fairmont State University has been awarded $16,000 through the West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission (WVHEPC) to host a series of events and activities promoting academic success, social belonging, and cultural capital-building for first-generation college students on campus.
Fairmont State University is thrilled to announce that Echosmith, the multi-platinum alt-pop trio best known for their smash hit “Cool Kids,” will headline the Fall Concert on Friday, Sept. 19. The event begins at 7 p.m., with Echosmith premiering at 8 p.m. The concert will be held outdoors on the Falcon Center Quad, with a special VIP Meet & Greet prior to the show.
Fairmont State University has announced the lineup for its 2025–2026 Presidential Speaker Series. Since its start last fall, the Series has brought distinguished leaders to campus to address topics such as politics, economics, civics, the arts, and culture—sparking meaningful dialogue and fostering intellectual engagement throughout the Falcon community.
Fairmont State University welcomed faculty and staff back from summer break with its annual Opening Session and Welcome Back Breakfast, celebrating a year of significant accomplishments and setting a course for the flourishing year ahead. Most notably, the University is experiencing prominent growth in both overall enrollment and student retention for the Fall 2025 semester. Specifically, undergraduate enrollment is expected to increase by 9%, retention rates are projected to rise by 8%, and there is an anticipated 18% increase in graduate studies enrollment—bringing approximately 300 additional students to campus altogether.
The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) has selected Fairmont State University to host the 2026 Civil Engineering Student Championships, marking the first time this prestigious international competition will be held in West Virginia. The multi-day championship is expected to draw hundreds of students, faculty, judges, and spectators to campus, offering a unique opportunity for engagement and visibility.
Fairmont State University recently dedicated a new Trex bench on campus, celebrating the success of a student-led sustainability initiative spearheaded by one of the university’s newest student organizations, the Rotaract Club.
Fairmont State University will serve as the proud host of the 2025 Northeast Aerial Drone Competition Championship, a premier four-day event set to take place at the Falcon Center from May 29 through June 1. Bringing together 120 top drone teams of middle and high school students from Maine to Kentucky, this event is the largest of its kind in the country and a celebration of innovation, engineering, and student achievement in STEM education.
Fairmont State University welcomed internationally acclaimed illusionist and escape artist Matt Johnson as the final guest for the spring 2025 installment of the Presidential Speaker Series, Appalachian Resilience.
Fairmont State University will proudly serve as host for the fourth annual Kickin' It for Katy 5K run and walk on Saturday, May 3, aimed at raising awareness for mental health and suicide prevention. All event proceeds will benefit the Kaitlynn Jade Memorial Scholarship, which supports students pursuing careers in mental health. Additionally, a portion of the funds raised will support local community initiatives focused on mental health, wellness, and healing.
The Feaster Center will come alive with celebration and Falcon pride on Saturday, May 17, as Fairmont State University hosts its Spring 2025 Commencement ceremonies.
Fairmont State University is excited to welcome internationally acclaimed illusionist and escape artist Matt Johnson as the featured guest of the Spring 2025 Presidential Speaker Series, Appalachian Resilience. With more than 30 years of experience, Johnson brings a powerful blend of spectacle and storytelling that reflects the very essence of resilience — the theme anchoring this semester’s series.
After a season of tough competition, Fairmont State University’s VEX U robotics team Falcotronix is headed to the world championship in Dallas, TX next month. This marks the team’s third consecutive year competing on the world stage since their reformation in 2022.
On February 13, Fairmont State University took center stage at the West Virginia State Capitol, demonstrating its significant contributions to the state’s economy, workforce, and communities. Students, faculty, and staff engaged with lawmakers, shared innovative programs, and underscored how Fairmont State is making North-Central West Virginia a Great Place to Learn, to Work, and to Call Home.
Four Parkersburg High School students each earned a $1,000 scholarship to Fairmont State University after securing first place in the 2025 Science Showdown on March 7. Hosted annually by Fairmont State, the competition brought together 13 teams of juniors and seniors from seven area high schools to take on a series of science-based challenges.
Fairmont State University is proud to continue its spring 2025 Presidential Speaker Series, Appalachian Resilience, which celebrates the region’s rich cultural heritage and creative spirit. The series brings together thought leaders to explore resilience in Appalachia through various lenses—including the arts, communication, and performance.
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