FAIRMONT, W.Va. — The Fairmont State University’s Board of Governors (BOG) held their first meeting with new leadership. Jennifer Kinty will serve as Chair of the BOG, Vice Chair is Jason Pizatella, and Kevin Rogers is secretary.
Two new executives have also joined the management team George Wolf will serve as the Vice President of Enrollment Management and Janna Bredeson is now the Vice president of Student Affairs.
“Both are seasoned higher education professionals who will bring new ideas and energy to the university,” Fairmont State University President Mike Davis said.
Davis also provided a report to the BOG about his first 12 months in office.
“Over the last year we have taken many steps that reinforce Fairmont State University’s standing as the best regional university in West Virginia. No single person or group achieved this alone. It took many contributions from many people. I’ve highlighted just a small sampling of what we accomplished today—I could spend hours talking about all the incredible work that happened on campus last academic year. Looking ahead, I’m excited about our future and eager to see our accomplishments grow,” Davis said.
Fairmont State University Foundation President Anne Bolyard told BOG members the Day of Giving event in 2024 exceeded previous fund raising efforts by 41-percent and set the goal for the 2025 event at $700,000. The 2025 Day of Giving will be held February 27.
Enrollment, Housing, and Student Life Committee Chair Pizatella provided a review of recent efforts to enroll new and retain current students.
“I commend the teams who did so much to recruit this class and retain our current students,” said Vice President of Enrollment Management George Wolf. “Nationwide delays to the FAFSA rollout have had deep impacts on many students and institutions. Fairmont State staff worked tirelessly to address the challenges. Preliminary enrollment figures indicate that they were successful.”
Vice President for Student Affairs Bredeson reported an increase in the number of students living on campus. The current housing occupancy rate is 93.5-percent. Several of those living spaces were renovated over the summer. Bredeson also talked about plans to enhance programs and services that engage students and contribute to their success.
The university currently has more cash on hand than any other public institution thanks to careful stewardship, according to Finance Committee Chair John Schirripa who also recommended Fairmont State adopt a new approach for managing cash reserves.
Interim Chief Financial Officer John Nisbet detailed the proposed three-year plan to address priorities identified in the University’s new strategic vision, which will be reviewed by the Board in October. The voted to reduce the cash on hand through strategic investments, primarily toward revenue generation and the student experience in ways that support retention.
“Fairmont State is in an enviable position. I look forward to making strategic investments in programs, people, and initiatives this year.” Board Chair Jennifer Kinty said. “Over the next couple of years the Board will really, truly be able to say that our students and the state of West Virginia have benefitted. The proof will be increased enrollment, graduation rates, and job placements.”
Also, Academic Affairs Committee Chair Wendy Adkins and Provost Dianna Phillips reported the first cohort of 19 Middle College students moved into Prichard Hall on August 12 and began classes with the rest of campus on August 26. Middle College is the only program in the state designed for children in the later stages of the foster care system. A Middle College ribbon cutting and celebration is schedule to happen in front of Prichard Hall on Friday, September 20 at 1:30 p.m.
Athletic Affairs Committee Chair Kevin Rogers introduced the new Assistant Athletic Director Simone Statham and , the new Assistant Athletic Director for External Affairs and Resource Development.
The BOG also heard a report from Bylaws Committee Chair Gina Fantasia about plans to revise policies regarding rule making for the university and revisions to Policy GA-07, the Rule Regarding Alcohol and Other Drugs. The new policy did not receive any public comment during the 30-day window and was approved by the BOG.
The Fairmont State University Board of Governors’ next meeting is scheduled for October 23 at 9 a.m. in the Falcon Center Boardroom.