Fairmont State announces four finalists in presidential search

After several days of off-campus interviews, Fairmont State University’s Presidential Search Committee, aided by search firm Buffkin/Baker, has selected four finalists—Michael Davis, Ph.D., Rocco Fucillo, J.D., L.L.M., William Phillips and Rosemary Thomas, Ed.D. 

“Each of these candidates brings a unique set of skills and experiences that we believe pair well with the traits we have identified in our next President,” said Fairmont State Board of Governor’s Chairman Rusty Hutson. “Fairmont State is a special place filled with special people. We serve a vital role in this region, and our next president’s vision and leadership will help ensure that we continue to provide an unrivaled student experience, build upon our robust academic programming, and strengthen the University for years to come.”

A public forum open to all students, faculty, staff, alumni, donors, and community members will be held on the following dates and times. Each open forum can also be accessed via WebEx. Feedback forms will go live on each candidate’s information page after the completion of their interview. 

Rocco Fucillo J.D., L.L.M.

• Monday, April 17 
• 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
• Falcon Center Conference Rooms
• WebEx: https://fairmontstate.webex.com/meet/fsumeeting

William Phillips

• Monday, April 17 
• 4 – 6 p.m.
• Falcon Center Conference Rooms
• WebEx: https://fairmontstate.webex.com/meet/fsumeeting

Michael Kenneth Davis, Ph.D.

• Tuesday, April 18 
• 3 – 5 p.m.
• Falcon Center Conference Rooms
• WebEx: https://fairmontstate.webex.com/meet/fsumeeting

Rosemary Thomas, Ed.D.

• Wednesday, April 19 
• 3 – 5 p.m.
• Falcon Center Conference Rooms
• WebEx: https://fairmontstate.webex.com/meet/fsumeeting

To view the finalist bios, photos, and CVs, please visit /presidentialsearch/meet-candidates.

As a reminder, although this search has been held nationally and with as much transparency as possible, the names of candidates participating in the Presidential Search are confidential and no further details will be given. Finalists have agreed to have their information and application status publicized upon reaching the final step of the process.  

Presidential SearchBuffkin/BakerRocco FucilloWilliam PhillipsMichael Kenneth DavisRosemary ThomasRusty Hutson