Fairmont State University’s Day at the Capitol to Showcase Its Impact on West Virginia’s Growth and Efforts to Address Key Industry Challenges

On February 13, Fairmont State University will travel to Charleston for its annual Day at the Capitol, highlighting the University’s significant contributions to West Virginia’s economy, workforce, and communities. Students, faculty, and staff will engage with lawmakers, present innovative programs, highlight how Fairmont State helps make North-Central West Virginia a Great Place to Learn, to Work, and to Call Home. 

“Our presence at the Capitol is more than just a showcase of the amazing things that happen on our campus—it is also a testament to the invaluable contributions Fairmont State makes the future of West Virginia,” said President Mike Davis. “We are not just educating students; we are preparing the next generation of leaders, innovators, and professionals who will drive the state forward.” 

This year’s Day at the Capitol will feature more than 30 exhibits, giving legislators and state officials a firsthand look at Fairmont State’s transformational impact. These exhibits will showcase cutting-edge educational tools such as flight and nursing simulators, as well as nationally recognized programs like the championship-winning Concrete Canoe Team and the Acrobatics & Tumbling Team, which competed in last year’s national championship. 

Fairmont State is actively addressing key priorities outlined by Governor Patrick Morrisey in his inaugural speech, including advancing education, expanding STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) curriculum, strengthening the economy, fostering civic engagement, and investing in the state’s youth: 

• Fueling Economic Growth and Workforce Development: Fairmont State is a major economic driver for West Virginia. In 2024 alone, the university generated $86 million in direct economic impact, creating approximately 800 well-paying jobs. Nearly 90% of students hail from West Virginia and most remain in-state after graduating, strengthening local economies and workforce development. Fairmont State is also actively addressing workforce shortages in key industries. Its premier flight school is preparing the next generation of pilots to support the state’s growing aviation sector, while graduates of its highly ranked Nursing programs are filling critical healthcare roles across the region. 
• Advancing Education & Investing in West Virginia’s Youth: Fairmont State produces job-ready graduates with the skills and hands-on experience to contribute immediately to the workforce. Employers consistently praise Fairmont State alumni for being well-prepared and ready to make an impact from day one. Also, through the Middle College program, the university is addressing the state’s foster care crisis head-on by providing stability and opportunity for children who have experienced foster care. This innovative initiative allows students to complete high school while simultaneously earning an associate degree, setting them up for lifelong success. 
• Expanding STEM-Focused Education: In alignment with Governor Morrisey’s emphasis on STEM curriculum, Fairmont State offers top-tier STEM programs in fields such as engineering and cybersecurity. The university also maintains strong partnerships with NASA’s Katherine Johnson IV & V Facility to provide hands-on learning experiences for students of all ages through drone and robotics competitions, as well as summer camps and K-12 outreach.
• Cultivating Civic Engagement: Fairmont State fosters civic responsibility through comprehensive education, service-learning, and the Civics Institute, which promotes democratic engagement through programming and partnerships. The university’s Presidential Lecture Series further fosters civic dialogue by bringing public figures, scholars, and leaders to campus to address pressing societal issues across politics, economics, healthcare, science, the environment, and the arts. Through these initiatives, Fairmont State empowers students and community members to be informed, engaged citizens who contribute to a stronger, more vibrant society. 

 

“As West Virginia engages in an ‘Economic Backyard Brawl,’ Fairmont State University will remain at the forefront, providing the education, innovation, and leadership our state needs to win,” said President Davis. “Our commitment to student success and state-wide impact is unwavering. We look forward to showcasing that in Charleston” 

Fairmont State’s Day at the Capitol is an opportunity to remind state leaders that a strong, vibrant university is essential to West Virginia’s success. Through economic impact, workforce development, and community engagement, Fairmont State University continues to make North Central West Virginia a Great Place to Call Home and ensure that its communities truly soar.