Fairmont State University continues its upward trajectory, welcoming its largest orientation group in years on May 10. Nearly 200 new and returning students arrived on campus, signaling a strong start to the academic year and underscoring the university’s growing momentum in enrollment and student success.
As Fairmont State University prepares for Commencement on May 17, the Office of the Provost and Faculty Senate took some time to honor its faculty at an awards and recognition lunch held in Colebank Gym. During the ceremony, individuals were celebrated for their years of service to the University and accomplishments such as promotions and tenure. The Faculty Senate also presented special awards.
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.
The Fairmont State University Board of Governors voted unanimously today, Tuesday, May 13, 2025, to allow the five-year extension of President Mike Davis’s contract to proceed.
Eight forensic science students from Fairmont State University recently attended the 2025 American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS) Annual Conference. This premier event draws leading forensic professionals, researchers, and students from across the nation. The conference, held earlier this year, provided an invaluable platform for students to present their work, engage with experts, and explore diverse career pathways within the field of forensic science.
Fairmont State University’s premier flight program is soaring to new heights with the addition of two new aircraft, increasing training opportunities for students and expanding enrollment capacity. The latest additions include a Cessna 172S G1000 and a Schweizer 300 helicopter, further solidifying Fairmont State’s position as the leading Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 141 flight program in the state. This designation means the program is characterized by structured curriculum, qualified instructors, and is overseen by the Federal Aviation Administration, to ensure compliance with all federal requirements.
The outstanding achievements of Fairmont State University faculty and students were recognized at the 2025 West Virginia Council of Teachers of Mathematics (WVCTM) Conference. Several distinguished members of the Fairmont State community were honored for their dedication, innovation, and contributions to mathematics education across West Virginia.
Fairmont State University proudly announces that the Frank and Jane Gabor West Virginia Folklife Center has been named Institution of the Year by the West Virginia Association of Museums (WVAM). This distinguished honor recognizes the Center’s outstanding contributions to preserving and celebrating Appalachian culture and heritage. The award also includes a $500 prize in support of the Center’s ongoing programming.
Fairmont State University proudly announces the induction of two esteemed faculty members from the College of Nursing, Bessie Fooks and Debra Harden, into the Sigma National Honor Society of Nursing. The prestigious ceremony took place on April 7 at Davis & Elkins College, marking a significant moment in celebrating nursing excellence.
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.
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.
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.
Fairmont State University has named five West Virginia high school students as recipients of the Charles J. McClain Presidential Scholarship. Also known as the Presidential Scholarship, the award covers tuition, program fees, room and board, and provides a $500 per semester stipend for textbooks through the campus bookstore.
Last October, Fairmont State University’s Board of Governors unanimously approved Strategic Vision 2025-2035, outlining a bold roadmap for the university’s next decade. Now, with the semester underway, the planning process is moving into the next phase: developing implementation plans.
Spring has sprung at the Frank and Jane Gabor West Virginia Folklife Center and members of the campus and community have literary gatherings, storytelling concerts, and exhibitions to look forward to. These events are open to all ages and all members of the community at no cost, and each event showcases a different folklife tradition integral to our area. The first event is the Kestrel Celebration, a twice-yearly event that highlights contributors to Fairmont State’s Kestrel literary and art journal, on Friday, April 4 at 5:30 p.m. Presenters will read their works of poetry and creative writing.
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