All schools in Upshur County will close at 1 p.m. today. All B-UHS sporting events today are canceled.

Fairmont State to award scholarships to newly admitted first-time freshmen

As the impacts of COVID-19 continue to be felt, Fairmont State University has seen an influx of students rethinking their college plans and choosing to attend a regional institution like Fairmont State that is smaller or closer to home. Because these students were not able to take advantage of the University’s SOAR scholarship award events this winter, a special one-time virtual SOAR Award event will be held to provide first-time, incoming freshmen who have not yet accepted a SOAR scholarship, the opportunity to do so. The event will be held on May 29 at 6 p.m. and provide a renewable $500 scholarship to all first-time incoming freshmen in attendance. 

The University understands that the pandemic has changed much about the world around us, including plans for education and college attendance. As a result, we are offering students who may have missed earlier events and deadlines a one-time opportunity to learn more about Fairmont State, Join the Falcon Family, and receive a scholarship for making the commitment. 

“At so few points in history has an event created such rapid change in our society,” said Sr. Director of Recruitment Chris Sharps. “We wanted to provide the opportunity for students to be recognized for their commitment to the University’s values of Scholarship, Opportunity, Achievement, and Responsibility. Whether it is the smaller and safer campus atmosphere that brings students to Fairmont State, one of our nationally recognized programs, or the teacher-mentor relationship that students develop with their professors – there has never been a better time to join the Falcon Family.”

Only first-time college students who have applied and have been admitted prior to the event are eligible to receive the SOAR Scholarship. If a student has not applied for admission they may do so at fairmontstate.edu/apply. If a student has applied but has not completed their application file, they can reach out to the Admissions & Recruitment Office at recruit@fairmontstate.edu

To RSVP for the event, please visit www.fairmontstate.edu/vsoar. Only students who attend a SOAR event will receive the SOAR Scholarship. This will be the final SOAR Award event prior to the start of the fall semester. 

Students and their parents who attend the online event can expect to hear from representatives from the Office of Admissions & Recruitment to answer questions about admissions and life at Fairmont State. President Mirta Martin will also be speaking with students about her experience as a first-generation college student.

Share this story:

RECENT Stories

Mountain CAP Family Support Center to host free dinosaur-themed play group May 30 in Buckhannon

Mountain CAP Family Support Center is hosting a free dinosaur-themed play group for children, featuring take-home dinosaurs and activities, at 10:30 a.m. on May 30 at 30 East Main Street, with pre-registration required.

WVU Medicine St. Joseph’s Hospital Auxiliary awards 2025 scholarships

The St. Joseph’s Hospital Auxiliary has awarded its annual $1,000 scholarships to Buckhannon-Upshur High School seniors Ellanora Hines and Kathryn Hamner, supporting their pursuit of healthcare careers and continuing a community tradition since 1990.

Upshur County Board of Education Agenda: May 27, 2025

The Upshur County Board of Education has released the agenda for its upcoming meeting scheduled for May 27, 2025.

Raising the Jolly Roger With… Braydon Osburn

Buckhannon-Upshur senior Braydon Osburn reflects on his athletic experiences in tennis and esports, his comeback victory, favorite classes, role models, future plans to become a preacher, and advice for aspiring Buccaneers.

Highland Landscaping continues to build lead in Bob Cupp Memorial Golf League

Highland Landscaping extended its first-quarter lead in the Bob Cupp Memorial Golf League to 15 points after a decisive 22-7 win over Lisa Cain Edward Jones during a weather-shortened week four round.

Five West Virginia Wesleyan College graduates recognized as outstanding seniors

Five West Virginia Wesleyan College graduates were honored as Outstanding Seniors for exemplary academic achievement, leadership, and community involvement during the Academic and Leadership Awards Ceremony.

David Robert Asson Jr.

David Robert Asson, Jr., 81, a devoted family man, Navy veteran, and active community volunteer in multiple states, passed away in West Virginia, leaving behind a legacy of service and cherished relationships.

Mother arrested for child neglect after police find wanted man, drugs in home

Latachia A. Weese, 30, was arrested and charged with felony child neglect after allegedly admitting to being high while caring for her two young children in a residence containing drugs and firearms.

Buckhannon man arrested for allegedly choking his mother

Timothy A. Tenney, 37, of Buckhannon, was arrested and charged with felony strangulation and misdemeanor domestic battery after allegedly attacking and choking his mother.

Edna Karickhoff

Edna Karickhoff, 91, a homemaker and member of Pleasant Valley United Methodist Church, died May 19, 2025, and is survived by her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren; funeral services are Thursday.

Strawberry Festival parade showcases power of music to connect communities — and cultures

A musical exchange between Bridgeport High School and Carmen Southeast High brought Appalachian and Latin rhythms — and award-winning performances — to the West Virginia Strawberry Festival, fostering cross-cultural friendships and greater musical understanding among students.

Buckhannon-Upshur’s mountain bike trails see major growth thanks to dedicated volunteers

Thanks to the volunteer-driven Upshur County Trails group, Buckhannon-Upshur’s mountain bike trail system has expanded to about 10 miles, supporting biking, hiking, and community events while fostering local partnerships and youth engagement.