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:

Local Businesses

RECENT Stories

Summer basketball

Summer league basketball wraps up week two

Week two of the Upshur County Summer Basketball League concluded with standout scoring performances and multiple games, including two forfeits by Country Roads Physical Therapy.

City council to review water board’s recommendation for new water treatment plant

The Buckhannon Water Board has recommended moving forward with a new water treatment plant and related infrastructure upgrades, sending a proposal to the city council for approval.

Gail Lovel Zickefoose

Gail L. Zickefoose, a dedicated educator, community leader, and beloved family man, passed away peacefully at age 83 after a long illness, leaving a legacy of service, kindness, and devotion to others.

Buckhannon City Council Agenda: July 15, 2025

The Buckhannon City Council released the agenda for its upcoming July 15, 2025, meeting.

Upshur County Relay for Life aims to raise $35,000 for cancer research on July 19

The Upshur County Relay for Life will host its annual event July 19 at Jawbone Park, aiming to raise $35,000 for cancer research while celebrating survivors and bringing the community together through activities and remembrance ceremonies.

WVU Medicine St. Joseph’s Hospital team members engage in statewide healthcare leadership program

Two WVU Medicine St. Joseph’s Hospital employees were honored by the West Virginia Hospital Association Leadership Academy, with Paula Cutright graduating and Matthew Scott selected for future participation in the statewide healthcare leadership program.

Post 7 drops outings to Doddridge and Morgantown

Buckhannon Post 7 suffered consecutive road defeats, falling 10-2 to Doddridge County and 11-0 to Morgantown Post 2, dropping their season record to 2-15.

Summer basketball league begins week two

The Upshur County Summer Basketball League entered its second week with standout performances from top scorers including Cory Harper, Dalton Hamrick, Cordell Nicola, and Vinny Snuffer leading their teams across multiple games.

Buckhannon City Council Special Meeting Agenda: July 15, 2025

The Buckhannon City Council has released the agenda for its special meeting scheduled for July 15, 2025.