The Fairmont State University Board of Governors voted unanimously today, Tuesday, May 13, 2025, to allow the five-year extension of President Mike Davis’s contract to proceed.

“The Board is pleased with President Davis’s work since starting at Fairmont State,” said Board Chair Jennifer Kinty. “We used an outside expert to conduct a thorough assessment of his performance. Based on those findings the Board voted to permit the extension of Dr. Davis’s contract for the next five years.”

Davis is the 27th President of Fairmont State University. After starting on July 1, 2023, he sought the perspective of students, faculty, staff, community members, business leaders, international partners, and elected officials. He used these insights to establish a new vision for the university, to become a “Great Place to Learn, to Work, and to Call Home.” This will guide Fairmont State for the next decade as it pursues its mission to “educate engaged citizens in a community distinguished by opportunity, growth, and achievement, delivering transformational impact for West Virginia and beyond.”

Under President Davis’s leadership, Fairmont State University Day of Giving set fundraising records in each of his first two years. He also created new ways for Fairmont State to connect with the community, like the Presidential Speaker Series and movie nights. Likewise, Dr. Davis improved how the University engages with state lawmakers, demonstrating the institution’s contributions to the state and raising Fairmont State’s profile in Charleston. On campus, he initiated a study to ensure fair pay for faculty and staff, as well as introducing other changes to improve employees’ quality of life. Finally, President Davis enhanced the student experience through the creation of new academic programs, providing additional support for athletics, and establishing a more vibrant campus environment.

President Davis earned a Doctor of Philosophy in Communication Studies and a Graduate Certificate in Women’s and Gender Studies from the University of Georgia. He also holds a Master of Arts and a Bachelor of Arts in Communication and Rhetorical Studies from Syracuse University.

To learn more about President Davis please visit www.fairmontstate.edu/president.