A word of appreciation
Last fall, I embarked on a journey around our beautiful state to tell the story of Fairmont State University. I talked about challenges we’ve overcome, our victories, and most off all, I shared tales of our community’s ‘roll-up-our-sleeves’ spirit and optimism about the future.
That journey took me to many West Virginia counties, and I’m getting close to having visited all 55 (which is my goal). I met many wonderful individuals, folks who have reinforced my respect for the people of West Virginia and their love for this great state.
This summer, I decided to go on a new journey. It was a pilgrimage of sorts, and one I plan to make annually to voice my appreciation to the Governor’s office, to our legislators, to industry and community leaders, and to alumni and donors for their support of Fairmont State University and higher education. I intend to ensure that my appreciation for their support is understood.
I don’t know why, but it seems as if It’s human nature that, when we do not agree with something, we voice our displeasure – either vocally or in writing. We frequently tell people about bad retail experiences, horrible meals, or which lawnmowers to avoid buying, and we eagerly write letters to editors or members of congress to address policy differences, or we happily post bad movie reviews online. Yet, when we agree, support or endorse a direction, an initiative, or a person, we often keep it to ourselves. We assume that, since we voice our displeasure when we’re unhappy, people surely must know we’re supportive if we say nothing.
Such assumption is flawed. It is my hope that this annual “appreciation tour” will send a resolute message that we must voice our appreciation and support of individuals and their actions. And at Fairmont State University, we are most appreciative.
This legislative session was a particularly impactful session for Fairmont State and for higher education in general. As a result of our state’s economic prosperity, among other initiatives, legislators chose to recalibrate the funding formula for colleges and universities by providing additional funding. This was a meaningful initiative which impacted the lives of many throughout our state, and the Governor and the Legislators need to know we appreciate the funding. We realize they serve multiple constituencies in our great state, and I want to make sure they know we value their support of higher education.
Industry leaders who employ our graduates – keeping them in our state with meaningful careers and fulfilled lives – need to know how much we appreciate their investment. Community leaders who generously nurture and selflessly mentor our students throughout our communities need to know how much their random acts of kindness mean to lonely students who are often far away from home. And it’s important that we demonstrate to alumni and donors the transformational impact their gifts of time and philanthropy have on our students’ lives.
There is an old African proverb that says “it takes a village to raise a child.” Well, this great, wild and wonderful village we call “West Virginia” is coming together to raise our children and to provide them access to a better future – right here at home. I’m not taking any chances – I’m not going to assume people know of my limitless gratitude. I will convey it often and sincerely.
On behalf of Fairmont State University, thank you to all who labor daily to educate and empower our children, and make our lives and our state better – please accept my sincere and heartfelt appreciation. You ARE making a difference!
Dr. President Mirta MartinOpinionOpEd
