SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
WEST VIRGINIA’ S SCHOOL
When I became Fairmont State University’ s president, I made two commitments: We would serve all of West Virginia, and I would visit every county. I’ m Dr. Mike Davis, and these promises continue to guide my work.
Today, we enroll students from all 55 counties. To fulfill the second part of my commitment, I recently took a road trip in a camper van and visited several counties, some less prosperous than others. I met with legislators, civic leaders, education professionals and small business owners. Just as importantly, I met with hardworking West Virginians and listened to their concerns.
These communities want to thrive, and contrary to stereotypes, they believe in the value of a college education for their children. Many asked how we could help their students obtain an affordable education. I shared with them how our Access Scholarship covers tuition for West Virginia high school graduates, transfer students and former Fairmont State students who reside in the state, whose household incomes are $ 70,000 or less a year.
Business and industry leaders were worried about the drain of talent. I described to them our emphasis on quality internships and apprenticeships. We know these kinds of work-based learning experiences often lead to job offers, which keeps our home-grown talent right here in West Virginia
and attracts talented out-of-state students.
Sadly, many said this was the first time they had seen anyone from one of our four-year institutions in their communities. They knew college admissions staffs visited their high schools, but no one had come to their communities to listen to residents’ concerns or needs.
We can’ t go into West Virginia towns solely to find students, and we won’ t. As a public university we must find ways to use our expertise to serve every county and help them thrive. By visiting communities across the state, we’ re affirming our role as a true partner in West Virginia’ s progress— supporting students as they reach their goals, strengthening the workforce pipeline and contributing to the well-being of every county.
Together, we can ensure West Virginia, like Fairmont State University, is a Great Place to Call Home.
( 304) 367-4000 | fairmontstate. edu | 1201 Locust Avenue, Fairmont, WV 26554