FAIRMONT, W.Va. — A ribbon cutting will be held for the Middle College at Fairmont State University on Friday in Pritchard Hall at 1:30 p.m.
Middle College is designed exclusively for youth aging out of the foster care system to give them options for a productive future. Statewide there are nearly 6,000 children are currently in the foster care system. Only 62% of those children will graduate from high school, and 3% will pursue a post secondary degree. Many who age out of the system without options or peer support can face challenges like homelessness, incarceration, and/or chronic unemployment.
The inaugural Dean of Middle College, Emily Swain will also be introduced during the event.
“Emily brings a deep commitment to student success and community development that makes her the perfect leader for Middle College,” said University Provost Dr. Dianna Phillips. “Her passion for helping students, especially those from underserved backgrounds, aligns perfectly with our mission. We are excited to see how her leadership will shape this program and provide new opportunities for youth in foster care to thrive both academically and personally.”
Middle College is a partnership with KVC West Virginia, West Virginia Schools of Diversion and Transition, and Marion County Schools and provides students the opportunity to live on campus and take both high school and college courses. Students also have opportunities to socialize, participate in recreational activities, join student organizations, and have access to support programs.
Swain is a 2006 graduate of Fairmont State University with a bachelor’s degree in elementary education, Swain began her career in nonprofit work at the Fairmont State Foundation. She later became executive director of the Fairmont State Alumni Association, a role she held until 2016.
Swain has served as interim executive director of Main Street Fairmont and with the Fairmont Community Development Partnership, focusing on affordable housing and support for vulnerable populations. She then moved to the Tygart Valley United Way where she became the first community impact director and played a key role in the response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Swain then returned to higher education, completing a master’s degree in higher education administration from West Virginia University while serving as Special Assistant in Fairmont State University’s Office of Academic Affairs. She is now pursuing a doctorate in educational leadership with a concentration in rural and diverse educational leadership from Southern Arkansas University.
“This ribbon cutting is truly a celebration of the hard work and dedication of so many,” said Swain. “Middle College is a program unlike any other, which required immense collaboration, perseverance, and vision. I’m honored to celebrate with the entire team on this special occasion.”