Fairmont State University wrapped up the fall installment of its 2025-2026 Presidential Speaker Series on Nov. 13 with , CEO of HOPE Gas. The Presidential Speaker Series welcomes distinguished leaders to campus to explore politics, economics, civics, the arts and culture—sparking meaningful dialogue and strengthening intellectual engagement across the Falcon community.
Fairmont State University President Mike Davis hopes the series’ breadth will encourage more consistent participation from students and community members.
“The Presidential Speaker Series brings together a dynamic mix of leaders whose perspectives reflect the diverse interests of our campus and community,” Davis said. “Our goal is to offer conversations that resonate with everyone, spark ideas, inspire action, and underscore the tremendous value of engaging with the university.”
Thursday’s event emphasized the importance of retaining graduates in West Virginia and building a skilled workforce, one that not only supports local communities but also empowers working families who call the state home. O’Brien believes this can be done through things like strategic partnerships, hands-on professional development, adapting education to meet the needs of the workforce and evolving with cutting-edge industry advancements—all things HOPE Gas is implementing.
“West Virginia has a depth of human capital you won’t find anywhere else, rooted in shared history, breathtaking landscapes, and a resilience that sets us apart,” Davis said. “We see that same resilience in our students as they grow into adaptable professionals and committed citizens who strengthen their communities. That’s why it’s important to make sure our graduates stay in our state and why Fairmont State is working with employers to make that possible.”
Although not a native West Virginian, O’Brien, like Davis, recognizes the state’s potential and believes the energy sector is a key driver in keeping skilled workers here. He stressed to the audience, especially students, that industries like natural gas rely on far more than field workers. They also need accountants, HR professionals, IT specialists and many others. Even if students don’t initially see the connection, he noted, there is likely a place for their skills within West Virginia companies.
“We have everything any company would have—every discipline. No matter your major, we need you,” O’Brien said. “There’s so much opportunity here in the state, and it should reach everywhere. It shouldn’t just be in Morgantown or Fairmont—it should be in Calhoun, Madison, Parkersburg, and beyond. We need to make sure that it ripples throughout West Virginia. That’s why I’m most excited about what the future looks like.”
While the fall lineup has concluded, the 2025-2026 series is far from complete. The series will resume on Feb. 12 at 6 p.m. in the Falcon Center Conference Rooms (third floor) with Dr. Mike Lee, professor and director of the Civility Initiative at the College of Charleston (SC). He will lead a discussion on Civility and Dialogue Across Differences, a topic sure to engage both students and community members. To view the spring lineup, visit fairmontstate.edu.
