Fairmont State Advances Access, Workforce Development, and Economic Impact in West Virginia
Fairmont State University’s ongoing and future initiatives to address college access, workforce needs, and strengthen West Virginia’s economy were the main highlights of the Feb. 19 Board of Governors meeting.
The meeting opened with the Presidential Report, during which Fairmont State President Mike Davis highlighted the success of Fairmont State Day at the Capitol. More than 160 Falcons participated in the event, which featured 30 displays showcasing the university’s contributions to the state. Academic programs addressing workforce shortages—such as nursing and aviation—were prominently featured, alongside student organizations and athletics. Among the many highlights of the day, the Acrobatics & Tumbling team impressed spectators in the Capitol Rotunda with an energetic performance. Board member Drew Patton later spoke with West Virginia state Sen. Ryan Weld, who described the event as “impressive.”
Davis also previewed the upcoming Fairmont State Day of Giving on Feb. 27, a 24-hour fundraising event with a goal of raising $700,000. Donors can designate their contributions to various areas, such as academic programs, athletics, student organizations, scholarships, and more. The event will feature a 24-hour live-streamed broadcast, kicking off at midnight with a special celebration. Programming throughout the day will include “Good Morning, Fairmont” from 7-9 a.m., a student dinner at 4 p.m., a Coach’s Panel at 5 p.m., and the return of “Mike at Night”, a lively celebration in the Falcon Center from 5 p.m. until midnight, among other activities.
The Board also received an enrollment update, noting a 9% increase in new students this Spring and the highest Fall to Spring retention of first year students on record at 88.5%. There was also an uptick in applications following the announcement of the Access Scholarship. This program allows WV high school graduates, transfer students, and former Fairmont State students who wish to complete their degree from households earning up to $70,000 to attend Fairmont State full time without paying tuition or program fees.
In line with the university’s commitment to workforce development, the Board unanimously approved a new Bachelor of Arts in Outdoor Leadership. Once the Higher Learning Commission has reviewed and approved the program, students can begin enrolling. The decision to expand the minor into a major was inspired by a meeting with Chelsea Ruby, secretary of the West Virginia Department of Tourism, who identified the need for college graduates to support the state’s growing outdoor tourism sector.
"Fairmont State University is committed to delivering academic programs that address West Virginia’s workforce needs and drive economic growth,” Davis said. “By expanding opportunities in high-demand fields like nursing, aviation, and outdoor leadership, we are preparing our students for meaningful careers while strengthening the state’s economy. Our role is clear: to equip graduates with the knowledge and skills needed to fill critical job openings and support industries that are vital to West Virginia’s future."
West Virginia’s outdoor tourism industry generates $9 billion annually, supporting nearly 7% of the state’s workforce. With one in every 15 jobs tied to tourism and approximately 21,000 job openings projected each year, the sector offers significant career opportunities. This new program will equip students with vital leadership, management, communication, and program planning skills, along with the technical expertise needed to guide individuals and groups in outdoor settings such as parks, wilderness areas, and recreational facilities.
Additional workforce initiatives discussed included the possible creation of an aviation minor and rotary flight instruction within the Aviation program, as well as an expanded selection of microcredentials to enhance students’ career readiness.
"Fairmont State University continues to play a pivotal role in shaping West Virginia’s workforce and economy,” Board Chair Jennifer Kinty said. “President Davis’ report highlighted not only the success of Fairmont State Day at the Capitol but also the university’s unwavering commitment to meeting workforce demands in critical areas like healthcare and aviation. Soon, we will be able to add outdoor leadership to the list of West Virginia’s employers needs that Fairmont State is addressing. The Board is proud to support these initiatives, ensuring that Fairmont State remains a leader in preparing students for the jobs of today and tomorrow."
