For the first time in its 60-year history, the Fairmont State Foundation will provide more than $1 million in scholarships and programmatic support to Fairmont State University on July 1.
The Fairmont State Foundation board voted in late February to fund 4 percent of earnings to the University, which will be about $1,054,000. The amount of funding the foundation has been able to provide to the university increased by nearly 82 percent since 2017, when the total amount was at $578,000.
“Thanks to successful fund raising and diligent stewardship of foundation assets, we are able to provide more than $1 million to support Fairmont State University,” said Gary LeDonne, Fairmont State Foundation Board chair. “As state and federal support for higher education continues to dwindle, theFoundation strives to fund critical support for Fairmont State students, faculty and facilities.”
Most of the current funding supports scholarships for Fairmont State students, 90 percent of whom receive some form of financial aid. The Fairmont State Foundation has embarked on efforts to diversify fund raising to also assist the university with faculty development, new facilities and value-added experience for students, such as study abroad and internship stipends.
“This support from the Foundation is proof once again of the power of the Falcon Family,” Dr. Mirta Martin, president of Fairmont State University, said. “That they’re able to provide this support is an indication of the Foundation’s dedication, the University’s growing visibility, and of our alumni’s faith, and investment, in Fairmont State University. They know that’s an investment that will return the best dividend: student success, committed faculty-mentors, and a strong, vibrant campus.”
This first-time accomplishment comes as the Fairmont State Foundation celebrates its 60th year as the nonprofit fund-raising entity for Fairmont State.
“As we celebrate our 60th anniversary, we are proud to achieve this significant milestone of providing more than $1 million in support to Fairmont State University,” LeDonne said.
The mission of the Fairmont State Foundation is to support, through ethical stewardship, the mission of Fairmont State University. The Foundation is governed by an elected Board of Directors whose members serve as advocates for Fairmont State, its colleges, programs and units.
“Part of our mission is to provide a top-notch education to all who seek it,” said Dixie Yann, Chair of Fairmont State University’s Board of Governors. “Because so many of our students depend on financial aid and scholarships, the impact of the Foundation’s commitment to these students can’t be overstated. This support will not only enhance their experiences and impact their success, but it will also impact faculty development and capital improvements for years to come.”
The Foundation strives to identify, establish and cultivate meaningful relationships with Fairmont State alumni, as well as potential and existing funding constituencies. The nonprofit organization also strives to meet contributor needs while securing funds and supporters for priority objectives identified by the Fairmont State President Mirta Martin and Fairmont State University Board of Governors.